The Woodlands Falcons’ remarkable season came to a dramatic and heartbreaking end in the final seconds of the NYSPHSAA Class B regional final, but the pride surrounding the program remains unmistakable.
Despite Woodlands falling 54–53 to Carle Place after a stunning four-point play in the final seconds, the loss does little to diminish what this team has accomplished.
The Falcons finished with an outstanding 21–3 overall record and a perfect 9–0 league record, earning the No. 1 ranking in Section 1 Class B. Their postseason run included a thrilling 56–53 overtime victory over Dobbs Ferry High School to capture the Section 1 Class B Championship, sending Woodlands on to compete in the New York State Public High School Athletic Association regional tournament.
For the third year in a row, the Falcons advanced to postseason play and continued one of the most successful stretches in program history. Over the past three seasons, Woodlands has compiled a 67–11 record, captured three straight sectional titles and made deep postseason runs that have brought pride to the entire Greenburgh community.
“This group has done a lot of winning,” said Falcons coach John Rapaport. “Aaron (Woodberry) and his brother, Eric, started this. Three sectional titles in a row, it’s a lot to be proud of. We’ve put a lot of banners up.”
Saturday’s regional final reflected the determination that defined Woodlands all season. Aaron Woodberry knocked down four 3-pointers in the third quarter to help bring the Falcons back, and Woodlands moved in front in the opening minutes of the fourth. Noah Cherubin scored 11 points, while Sean McKenney added six and Sebastian Benitez chipped in five as the Falcons battled until the final buzzer.
More than anything, this team will be remembered for the heart, skill and resilience it showed from start to finish.
The Falcons have given the Woodlands community so much to celebrate over these past three seasons, setting a high standard through their toughness, consistency and belief in one another. While the ending was painful, it does not change what this group achieved or the pride it inspired.
Congratulations to the players, coaches and supporters for a season defined by hard work, teamwork and Falcon pride.