Empire State Review Team 
Long Island Track Star Zariel Macchia Wins Title and Legal Battle
NEW YORK – Zariel Macchia, a highly accomplished track athlete from Long Island, not only clinched multiple titles on the race track but also achieved a significant victory in a courtroom. After being disqualified from competing in the New York State Track and Field Championships due to a controversial eligibility rule, Macchia pursued legal action to overturn this ban.
Background on the Disqualification
As a senior in high school, Macchia was poised to compete for her seventh state title in the 3,000 meters when the New York State Public High School Association disqualified her. The organization cited a rule that prohibits a student from representing their school if they compete as a college athlete during the same season. This ruling effectively barred Macchia from the championship event.
Legal Action to Compete
Determined to fight back against what she felt was an unjust ruling, Macchia’s family took legal steps to allow her to compete. “If no one gained an unfair advantage and no one was cheating, then there’s no reason to be disqualifying people just because of a slight technicality and change in wording,” Macchia stated during the proceedings.
A Courtroom Victory
After a two-day hearing, the judge ruled in favor of Macchia, allowing her to participate in the championship. This decision not only marked a personal victory for her but also highlighted the challenges faced by student-athletes navigating complex eligibility rules.
Public and Family Reaction
Macchia’s mother, Alex Macchia, expressed immense pride in her daughter’s composure and poise during the court appearance. “I was just so proud of her in court sitting there watching her just so well composed answering the lawyer’s questions on cross-examination,” she reflected.
Zariel Macchia views her experience as an opportunity to help fellow athletes. “I’ve run in three World Championship races, and that’s what we need to be helping our athletes get better, not try to make rules to hold us back,” she remarked.
Future Aspirations
Going forward, Macchia is set to study at Boston University while continuing her athletic career. With her recent victory, she hopes to inspire others facing hurdles in their sports journey.
Conclusion
Zariel Macchia’s story serves as a reminder of the obstacles that young athletes can encounter and the importance of standing up for their rights. Her determination not only won her a court case but also added another title to her impressive collection at the New York State Track and Field Championship.
