The Long Island Junior Soccer League Hall of Fame added three new members on Sunday, April 7. Jeff Sinkiewicz, Violette Smith, and Vic Varonier were honored during an induction ceremony at the Stonebridge Country Club in Smithtown.
The LIJSL Hall of Fame is made up of people who have given of themselves in great magnitude,” LIJSL Sporting Director John Fitzgerald said. “The fact that they’ve done so much for others in their communities speaks volumes about their personal commitment and sacrifices.”
Sinkiewicz is considered “Mr. Middle Country Soccer” for all his efforts over 27 years with Middle Country Children’s Soccer, where he currently sits on the club’s Board of Directors. Smith has held the role of Brentwood Soccer Club President for over 20 years and continues her positive impact on the community in that role today. Varonier has also spent two decades serving as a Club President, holding the position with Sound Beach Soccer Club, and is still the only coach to lead an SBSC team to an NY State Cup title. More on each inductee can be seen here.
Surrounded by over 90 people, including their families and past Hall of Fame award recipients, all three received their induction blazers and plaques before enjoying brunch.
The brunch was dedicated to longtime Hall of Fame Committee Chairman Michael Clarke, who passed away last year, as well as in remembrance of Peter C. Collins, who served as League President for over 25 years.
“It was a wonderful event and we were so glad to honor three of the most deserving volunteers and servants of the game and to their communities,” LIJSL President Andrew Seabury said. “We were also very proud to remember and honor Michael Clarke and Peter Collins for their service to the League and we will forever be grateful on their impact to the game we all love so much”
“To be able to honor our current inductees is a pleasurable celebration for the League,” Fitzgerald said. “As well, it’s important that we continue to remember and honor our past inductees, as doing so continues the bond and connections that demonstrate the greatness of those who are the true representatives of the spirit of LIJSL.”