Track Star Zariel Macchia Wins Appeal to Compete in State Championships

A judge ruled that the high school senior, previously declared ineligible for competing against college athletes, can run in Saturday's indoor state meet.

Zariel Macchia, an 18-year-old track star from William Floyd High School, successfully appealed a ruling that barred her from competing in the indoor state championships.
The New York State Public High School Athletic Association (NYSPHSAA) had declared her ineligible after she participated in a race against college athletes in February, citing a violation of the 'College Rule.'
Macchia's lawsuit argued that she was unaware of the rule and claimed the decision caused irreparable harm, including potential impacts on future NIL opportunities.
Judge Christopher Modelewski ruled in her favor, allowing her to compete in the 1,000- and 3,000-meter races at Saturday's state championships in Staten Island.
Macchia, a six-time state champion and BYU commit, is one of Long Island's most decorated runners and a potential future Olympian.