Historic Year for Frankfort-Schuyler Athletics

The 2025-26 school year will be remembered as the most successful in the history of Frankfort-Schuyler Central School District athletics.

Across every season, Frankfort-Schuyler student-athletes demonstrated hard work, determination and pride while bringing home championships, setting records and making school history. From capturing section and league titles to standout individual performances, the Maroon Knights accomplished one milestone after another as the school year went on.

“While the championships, records and first-ever accomplishments are extraordinary, they are simply the result of years of hard work, dedication and belief in one another,” said Superintendent of Schools Joseph Palmer. “Our student-athletes, coaches, families and community have built something special together. These achievements reflect not only athletic excellence, but also the pride, perseverance, character and family atmosphere that define what it means to be a Maroon Knight. We could not be prouder of the way our students continued to represent our school and community throughout this historic year."

The successes began in the fall, when both the varsity 8-man football team and the boys varsity soccer team won their league championships. The girls varsity soccer team added to the excitement by winning the team’s first sectional championship in Frankfort-Schuyler history, a milestone achievement that marked a new chapter for the girls soccer program.

The momentum continued into the winter season as both the boys and girls varsity basketball teams won their league championships. This noteworthy win was a first in school history for the girls team. 

Spring brought even more success in Frankfort-Schuyler athletics, as both the varsity baseball and softball teams captured league championships. The softball win was another historic achievement, marking the first league championship in program history.

In addition to the team accomplishments, several Frankfort-Schuyler student-athletes distinguished themselves through outstanding individual performances.

Senior wrestler Gene Edwards continued to cement his legacy, winning the Section III Class B Championship at 150 pounds, making him a five-time Class B champion. He also captured the title of Section III Division II champion for the third time. His impressive high school wrestling career concluded with 229 wins, including 161 by pin. He holds the Frankfort-Schuyler record for most career wins.

During both the winter and spring, Frankfort-Schuyler athletes excelled on the track. During the indoor track season, Cory Helmer was the Center State Conference (CSC) Division II champion in the 100-meter and 600-meter events. Kyleigh Sears was the CSC Division II champion in the 55-meter and high jump. During the outdoor track and field season, Nicholas Aulisi was the CSC Division II champion in the 800-meter and 1600-meter events. Kyleigh Sears was the CSC Division II champion in the high jump and the Section III Class C3 champion for high jump.

The accomplishments of Frankfort-Schuyler athletes and their success across all seasons this school year have not gone unnoticed beyond the District.

"The program has enjoyed remarkable success this year, and the pride throughout the school and community is truly impressive,” said Jason Czarny, executive director of Section III Athletics for the New York State Public High School Athletic Association.

For longtime Frankfort-Schuyler Athletic Director Jeff LaGase, who will retire at the end of June, the historic year serves as a representation of a culture that has been built over many years. As he reflects on his time with the District, he credits the success of the athletic program to the people who have contributed to it year after year.

"What stands out most is the culture that has been built over many years," LaGase said. "The foundation of that culture has always been rooted in commitment, hard work, accountability, teamwork and pride in representing Frankfort-Schuyler. Our program's achievements are the result of the collective efforts of coaches, student-athletes, families, administrators, alumni and community members who have consistently invested in our programs and in one another."

“Frankfort-Schuyler has been much more than a school district to me – it has been family,” LaGase said. “Throughout my years here, I have had the privilege of working alongside dedicated coaches, supportive families, outstanding student-athletes and a community that takes tremendous pride in its school. Watching young people grow through athletics, learn important life lessons and achieve things they may not have thought possible has been one of the most rewarding parts of my career.”

Longtime varsity baseball coach Mark Spina, who teaches at Frankfort-Schuyler Jr./Sr. High School and will also be retiring after this school year, has also been reflecting on his many years spent at Frankfort-Schuyler and the lessons he’s learned during his tenure. After spending more than 50 years on the baseball field, both as a player and a coach, he has learned that success is measured by much more than wins and losses – instead, it’s measured by the relationships you build, the lessons you pass on, and the young people you have the opportunity to positively influence along the way.

As he marvels at the many athletic successes of the 2025-26 school year, he echoes what others have said about it being a collective effort over time.

“Such an accomplishment speaks volumes about the dedication, commitment and character of everyone involved,” Spina said. “It is the result of countless hours of preparation, teamwork, perseverance and support from administration, the athletic director, coaches, parents and the entire school community. This year's success reflects the strength of the entire athletic program.”

The remarkable achievements of this school year showcase not only the strength of Frankfort-Schuyler’s athletic programs, but the strength and support of the Frankfort-Schuyler school community as a whole. The Maroon Knights have set a standard that will inspire future generations.

"I am grateful to have had the opportunity to be part of something so special," LaGase said. "I could not be more proud of our athletic program and all of the people who have contributed to its success over the years. The future of Frankfort-Schuyler Athletics is bright, and as always, it's great to be a Maroon Knight."