FALLSBURG –– Alana Gjeka has been playing football in Fallsburg for six years. First stepping onto the field in the 6th grade. Last month she played her final game as a  senior with the Fallsburg Comets. Her mother Leslie and the entire Town of Fallsburg couldn’t be prouder. Alana was the only female player on the team. She worked hard  and was dedicated to football. Alana also had some encouragement from a few important people around her. 

Her coach, Dom Scanna shared this about her: 

“Alana came to our Varsity program in her freshman year.  In football, it’s often natural talent that gets attention, but true greatness is often built on hard work, persistence, and heart. For Alana, a player in our Fallsburg Football Program this couldn’t be truer. Her relentless work ethic and determination set her apart, making her a crucial asset to her team.  Her consistency and reliability made her the kind of player that every coach dreams of having on their team—a leader by example.  In a sport that thrives on passion and teamwork, Alana’s legacy is a reminder that success isn’t just about natural talent but also about hard work, resilience, and the ability to lift others up. She may not have had the fastest sprint or the highest jump, but she had a heart that never stopped, and in football, that’s worth just about more than anything.  I am going to miss coaching her and am thankful she joined our program.”

Alana found a mentor in local Councilman Dr. Sean Wall-Carty. He had this to say about her:

“As a Councilman for the Town of Fallsburg, I want to extend my heartfelt congratulations to Alana Gjeka on an incredible achievement. Alana has made history as the Town’s first female football player, having dedicated herself to the game since 6th grade, and is now finishing her senior season. Her determination, resilience, and spirit have broken barriers and inspired our community. Alana has paved the way for future athletes and shown us all the power of perseverance; simply put, that girl does not know how to quit! Congratulations on this amazing milestone—Fallsburg is so proud of you!”

“It was a really good experience, and I credit a lot of that to Coach Scanna. If it wasn’t for his support, my family and my community I wouldn’t have been able to do it. They were very caring, loving. It was like another family. A really good environment Alana says.” 

As for future plans, her mom Leslie shared with us that Alana hopes to enlist in the United States Army and study criminal justice. She wants to make her community a better place and make positive changes in people’s lives.