Joe Davidson committed himself to the Sachem wrestling program for three decades. He began as a high school student and was the first Suffolk County finalist for new head coach Jack Mahoney in 1973. The following year he followed that up by winning the 119 pound crown and placing fourth in the New York State Tournament his senior year. That following summer, he was a Junior National Runner-up in Greco Roman Wrestling.
During college he made three different stops. He began as a Junior College All-American at Suffolk Community College and then went on to compete at the University of Rhode Island and SUNY Brockport. During the summers, Joe would also compete in the annual Empire State Games and was a multiple gold medalist in both Freestyle and Greco Roman wrestling.
Although he still competed in some local tournaments, Joe then turned his attention to the coaching profession, returning to his alma mater and guiding young wrestlers alongside his own coach Jack Mahoney. Together they continued to build a powerhouse in both Section XI and New York State. Under the Davidson-Mahoney tandem, Sachem produced 116 Suffolk County place winners, 30 champions, and 24 New York State place winners. As a team during that time, Sachem compiled an unheard of record of 231-43-2, winning 22 dual meet or League I tournament titles, one New York State Cup, four Section XI championships and three New York State Championship teams.
It’s obvious that along with Coach Mahoney, Joe Davidson has been integral to the success of Sachem wrestling. Winning followed him from the mat to the coaching ranks as he was one of the most decorated wrestlers to come through Sachem. He was a gifted athlete and an unbelievable coach who inspired countless wrestlers to achieve above and beyond their capabilities.
The program and community took a hit in 2005 when he met his untimely death. The loss was felt by the many people who were part of the Sachem family whose lives he had encountered over the years.
The annual Joe Davidson Memorial Duals, held every year in December, helps keep his memory alive. This year Sachem North, Sachem East, Syosset, Farmingdale, West Babylon, Eastport-South Manor, William Floyd, Deer Park and Bayport-Blue Point participated in the duals at Sachem High School North.