Mike Delio's first varsity start for Carle Place High School on Long Island couldn't have gone any better.

A junior, Delio struck out all 21 batters he faced in pitching a perfect game against Hempstead on Tuesday.

"I've had dreams of throwing no-hitters and perfect games, but nothing like this," Delio told Newsday after his team's 15-0 victory. "This was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity."

Delio, who pitched on the junior varsity team the past two seasons, featured a knuckle-curve as part of his repertoire, along with a well-placed fastball that reached the mid-80s.

"I just stayed focused," Delio said. "I wanted to locate my pitches, get my curveball down in the zone and just play baseball."

At the plate, Delio also contributed with three walks and two stolen bases.

Carle Place manager Brian Krummenacker didn't seem surprised by Delio's performance.

"Every time he takes the mound, there is always the chance that he can do something special," Krummenacker said. "Today was the day."