Amityville High School homecoming king's 'winning heart' overcomes challenges

Victor Akintola wouldn’t discuss the medical condition that has him in a wheelchair.

It was homecoming for Amityville High School Saturday, and Akintola had much more important things going on — like being named homecoming king to the thunderous applause and screams of his classmates.

"He was chosen because of his character and giving personality," principal Mary De Rose said. "He is always so kind and always has a smile on his face."

Akintola was born in Nigeria and came to the United States when he was 5.

At his high school he is well known and has many friends.

"He is not an athlete like the other boys nominated," De Rose said. "He has a winning heart."

One of the first people to congratulate Akintola after he was crowned was his aide, Mark Todaro.

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"He is a funny, outgoing kid with a great sense of humor," he said. "He is like a son to me."

While Akintola said it felt great to win the crown, he’s already looking forward to future goals.

"I want to study computer programming," he said of his college plans. "I want to create programs that can help others."