The Cantiague Summer Lacrosse League is rich in tradition with some of the best to ever play the game.

The league began in 1979 by founder John Pappas. Pappas attended Syracuse University in 1961 and earned two varsity letters prior to being drafted into the United States Army. He served his country as a medic for two years before returning to Syracuse where he earned his third letter. That season he was selected to participate in the North-South All-Star game. He earned his bachelor's degree in physical education in 1968 and was a two-time All-American.

Following his career at Syracuse, Pappas returned to Long Island where he was a teacher and coach at the Syosset Central School District. During his 23 year tenure, he served as district department chairperson and coached varsity lacrosse, football and wrestling. As a coach he led his teams to several county and state championships.

Pappas earned his Master's degree in education from New York University and his SAS certification from Brooklyn College. He went on to serve in the dual role of athletic director and district coordinator of health and physical education for Syosset Central School District from 1993-2003. During that time he also taught on the graduate level at Hofstra and Adelphi Universities.

During the past 60 years, Pappas' passion and dedication to the game of lacrosse has driven him to launch numerous developmental and recreational programs across Long Island. He served as president of the Nassau County Lacrosse Coaches Association for four straight years and was the founder and director of the Bethpage PAL Youth Lacrosse League.

He chaired many local and national fundraising events, including the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation Tournament. 

John passed away on October 24th, 2021. His legacy lives on as the league continues to grow each year.