Alumni Compete in Barber Battle 2025

Each June, alumni of the Long Island Academy’s Barbering Program return to participate in the fundraising competition known as Barber Battle.

The contestants, all working barbers or barbershop owners, have 90 minutes to create the winning haircut, which is judged by a three-person panel of working barbers. Participants bring their own models and have creative license to be as edgy as they choose, or to keep their work traditional, as long as they showcase their craft to the fullest extent.

“Creativity is fantastic as long as top-notch technique and skills are evident,” explained Barbering teacher and event founder James Ricciardo.

Contestants are rated in seven categories, including originality and creativity, technical precision, blend/fade execution, line-up sharpness and detail work, symmetry and balance, hair design (if applicable), and overall presentation.

This year, 13 alumni participated in the challenge, another three returned as judges, and a fourth donated his time to DJ the event. The competition, which is in its fourth year, raised almost $1,000. Proceeds are used to help incoming students offset a portion of the cost of starter kits, which cost approximately $600 and contain the necessary industry-related equipment.

Challengers interacted with students, discussed their career paths, answered questions, and explained how and why they executed particular techniques as students watched them work.

“This year, the oldest participant graduated from the program only four years ago,” said Ricciardo. “It’s so inspiring for my students to meet young professionals who have achieved the success they seek. It drives home the fact that it’s obtainable at an early age.”

Justin Carpenter, from DK’s Barbershop in Lake Ronkonkoma and a graduate of the Sachem CSD, won the battle and received the coveted Barber Battle wrestling belt in addition to bragging rights. According to Ricciardo, “Carpenter demonstrated complete mastery of the essential barbering skills and produced a high-level cut that showcased polished style, great shear work and a clean fade.”

Second and third place winners were Joel Alvarenga and Myles Maladonado. Alvarenga works at Pro Barbershop in Central Islip and graduated from Central Islip UFSD, and Maladonado works at DK’s Barbershop and graduated from Sachem CSD. 

“This occasion has evolved into more than a fundraising competition,” said Ricciardo. “It’s now also a reunion-networking event for alumni. They look forward to seeing old classmates and discussing business and potential collaborations. The room was filled with pride for the industry and our program.”