The Smithtown High School East field hockey team hosted its annual Togetherness Tournament on October 14, honoring the memory of former student and teammate Valerie Kratochvil. The special event brought together athletes, coaches, families, and community members in a heartfelt celebration of Valerie’s life and the lasting impact she made both on and off the field.
All proceeds from the tournament were dedicated to the Valerie Kratochvil Memorial Field Hockey Scholarship, a fund established in her name to support future student-athletes who embody the same dedication, sportsmanship, and team spirit that Valerie was known for. The scholarship serves as a lasting tribute to her love of the game and her commitment to excellence in everything she did.
Throughout the day, teams from across Suffolk County came together to compete, not only showcasing their athletic skills but also embracing the tournament’s greater message of unity, kindness, and remembrance. The atmosphere was filled with emotion, as friends and former teammates shared memories, laughter, and moments of reflection.
Coaches and school officials spoke about the importance of honoring Valerie’s legacy and how events like the Togetherness Tournament strengthen the bonds within the Smithtown community. The team wore special aqua jerseys for the pregame ceremonies, with the saying "Kratochvil Forever" across the back and their number underneath.
In addition to the games, the day included raffles, food, and community activities, with all donations contributing directly to the scholarship fund. The Togetherness Tournament was not only a day of competition but also one of remembrance and connection — a beautiful reflection of what Valerie meant to Smithtown East High.
Smithtown East's team is now 9-4 on the season and have been streaking to end the year with five straight wins. The defense has now allowed more than one goal in any of their past six games.