The billboard outside on Merrick Road had a decidedly partisan message Tuesday.
“Go Chiefs,” it read. “Good luck in semifinals at Hofstra.”
The Catholic church, located less than a mile down the road from , made its loyalties clear both in the community and at Hofstra.
That’s where Rev. Bruno Dekrem patrolled the Massapequa sideline Tuesday as the Chiefs , in a Nassau Class A boys lacrosse semifinal.
“They have great discipline, reverence and are respectful. They’re a good team,” said Father Bruno, wearing a blue and gold lacrosse sweater over his clerical collar. “They are really devoted to the sport and I’m really impressed.”
The over-50 Associate Pastor arrived in the community in the last year from Belgium by way of Floral Park. He found a bond with this cast of Massapequa athletes.
Dekrem followed the football team in the fall and many of the same athletes now play lacrosse. He got to know the players and now supports the Chiefs.
“Chiefs are leaders,” Father Bruno said. “They are our future leaders.”
Before the win at Hofstra, Dekrem gathered the Chiefs in the end zone and recited Psalms 91.
The Chiefs will need more divine inspiration Tuesday when they play for the county title for the third straight season. games to rival Farmingdale.
Massapequa faces Syosset for the title at 5:30 p.m. at Hofstra. Win or lose, Father Bruno will be in their corner.
