A Referee’s Resolve: Joe Gaskin’s Journey Back to the Court
Joe Gaskin, a beloved high school basketball referee from Long Island, is making a remarkable recovery after suffering a cardiac arrest during a Nassau County Class A final game between Floral Park and West Hempstead. The incident occurred while Gaskin was officiating the game, a role he has passionately fulfilled for decades. Now, as he recuperates in the hospital, Gaskin is already looking ahead to his 38th season on the court. When asked by his doctor if he had any questions, Gaskin’s first inquiry was about his ability to return to refereeing next year. His doctor’s response—“I don’t see any reason why not”—was all the assurance he needed.
Gaskin, who followed in the footsteps of his father to become a referee, is deeply aware of the incredible efforts that saved his life. A team of medical professionals, including nurses Tiffany Vargas, Monica Lally, and Darlene Sica, along with a doctor, rushed from the stands to administer CPR. Meanwhile, his close friend, Jennifer Keane, the athletic director at Wantagh, quickly prepared an automated external defibrillator (AED) that played a crucial role in resuscitating him. Gaskin, who will soon return home, has expressed his heartfelt gratitude to these heroes and plans to advocate for the presence of AED devices at all sporting events. “I had angels in the stands that day,” he said, reflecting on the events that saved his life.
A Champion’s Courage: Zariel Macchia’s Triumph on and Off the Track
Zariel Macchia, a standout track athlete from Long Island and an Olympic hopeful, has emerged victorious both on the track and in the courtroom. Just days before competing in the state championships, Macchia found herself in a legal battle with the New York State Public High School Athletic Association (NYSPHSAA). Her family filed a lawsuit after she was banned from competing due to a technicality involving her participation in races alongside college athletes. Despite the intense pressure and drama, Macchia remained focused on her goals.
At the championships held in Staten Island, Macchia delivered a stellar performance, winning the 3,000-meter event with a time of 9:21.73 and anchoring Suffolk’s intersectional relay to victory in 10:02.06. Her success on the track was a testament to her resilience and determination. Reflecting on her ordeal, Macchia shared, “I’m proud to say I stayed true to my values and didn’t get too caught up in trying to destroy everybody just because I had to go to court.” With the drama behind her, Macchia is now preparing for the Nationals at the Armory, where she hopes to continue making her mark on the track.
A Lifetime of Loyalty: Stella Walshinsky’s Enduring Spirit
Stella Walshinsky, a lifelong resident of Port Washington, has witnessed a historic moment in her community’s sports history. The 78-year championship drought for the Port Washington boys basketball team has finally come to an end, and Walshinsky couldn’t be prouder. She has a unique connection to the team’s history, having attended the school during its previous championships in 1946 and 1947. “I went to all the games,” she recalled. “You know, it’s a small town. So every time there was a game, it was just filled to the brim because everybody went.”
Now, as the Vikings prepare to face Half Hollow Hills East for the Long Island title, Walshinsky is eager to cheer on the team once again. While she is thrilled to see her team in the championship game, she admits that a victory would hold special significance. “Just the fact that they’re there is a wonderful thing,” she said, “but it would mean the world to me if they won.” Walshinsky’s unwavering support and enduring love for her team exemplify the spirit of a true superfan.
Community and Resilience: The Heartbeat of Long Island Sports
The stories of Joe Gaskin, Zariel Macchia, and Stella Walshinsky highlight the resilience, determination, and community spirit that define Long Island’s sports scene. From the dramatic on-court rescue of a beloved referee to the legal battles and triumphs of a track star, and the lifelong loyalty of a devoted fan, these narratives remind us of the power of sports to inspire and unite.
Each of these individuals has faced unique challenges, but their shared determination to overcome adversity serves as a testament to the enduring strength of the human spirit. Whether it’s Gaskin’s resolve to return to refereeing, Macchia’s courage in the face of legal challenges, or Walshinsky’s unwavering support for her team, their stories remind us that sports are about more than just competition—they are about community, perseverance, and heart.
A Bright Future Ahead
As these three individuals look to the future, their stories offer hope and inspiration to athletes, fans, and communities everywhere. Joe Gaskin’s advocacy for AED devices at sporting events has the potential to save lives, ensuring that others receive the same life-saving care he did. Zariel Macchia’s success on the track and her commitment to staying true to her values serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of integrity and resilience. Stella Walshinsky’s lifelong dedication to her team inspires us all to cherish the bonds we form through sports.
Together, these stories paint a vibrant picture of Long Island’s sports community—one that is built on courage, loyalty, and the unbreakable spirit of its people. Whether on the court, the track, or in the stands
