HUNTINGTON, N.Y. (July 11, 2025) — The stage is officially set for the 102nd Long Island Amateur Championship presented by Webster Bank, following a dramatic Thursday at Huntington Country Club filled with tight matches, playoff finishes, and determined performances.
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The morning started with rain and a tough match between Daniel Abbondandolo of Brookville and Joseph Dolezal of Piping Rock. Dolezal took control of Abbondando’s early lead and narrowly secured his spot with going 1-up to secure his spot in the final. Dolezal advanced to the final with a victory over Mackenzie Kim of Indian Island Golf Club, who had previously pulled off a comeback of his own in the quarterfinals, edging out Will Weissberg of Huntington Crescent Club in 19 holes.
“I felt really good,” said Dolezal of his game this week. “The wedges are tight, and everything feels like it’s coming together.”
While Dolezal credits his steady play, he was quick to highlight his mother, who served as his caddie throughout the week, as a key contributor to his success.
“She’s pretty good on the bag and knows how to keep me calm,” he said. “It was a good match today—very back and forth—and I’m glad I came out on top.”
Dolezal will face Peter Scialabba of Meadow Brook Club for the championship after enduring a marathon day of golf. After a 21-hole battle in the morning quarterfinal against Joe Saladino of Huntington Country Club, Scialabba faced off with Youth on Course-MGA’s Matthew Difiore in the semis. Tied through 17, Scialabba found the edge on the final hole to win 1-up and clinch his spot in the final.
“It’s been steady,” said Scialabba of his week. “I’ve been driving it great, wedge play has felt solid, and the putting came through in the big moments today.”
After falling short in last year’s quarterfinals, Scialabba came into the week motivated.
“I haven’t had the best start to the season, but I grew up not far from here and have played this course a lot,” he said. “It suits my game, and the conditions have been phenomenal—even with all the rain we’ve had.”
When asked about his mindset heading into Friday’s final, Scialabba was clear:
“I’m excited. It’ll be my first time in a final, and I know Joe is a great player. I’m looking forward to a great match.”
The 36-hole final match will begin at 7:30 a.m. Friday at Huntington Country Club, where a new name will be etched into Long Island Amateur history.
