Gerald Filardi has ignited youth football on Long Island and made a profound impact. He is the head coach of Hills West High School, Founder of the Long Island Spartans, Regional Director of Football University, co-founder of The Liberty Challenge, New York City Elite Football, LIYFA, and he re-established the Half Hollow Hills youth football program after its demise. Filardi has lead the charge to raise the level of football in Long Island since 2012. He has never been afraid to break tradition or political alliance or make unpopular choices for the benefit of helping raise the level of football. His only football allegiance is to the young players of Long Island. After 10 years the Long Island Elite Football National Team Program has produced a record number of players with Division I offers and/or commitments, many to Power 5 schools and even the distinguished SEC. He is a frequent speaker at local and national events, and sits on the board of numerous football organizations. Filardi was one of Penn State's all-time leading tacklers, played in two NCAA National Championships, and later played for the Pittsburgh Steelers.