NORTH SALEM, N.Y. - Things couldn't be looking better for Tigers lacrosse, as the squad brings back a wealth of experience with eight returning starters from last year's 10-8 season.
Leading North Salem into battle will be a quartet of senior captains. Midfielder and Villanova-commit Lili Valletta looks to finish her career with the Tigers in style and build off last year's All League season. On attack, expect Anna Fetterolf to light up the scoreboard and keep the momentum from last season's 22 point, All League effort. Anchoring the Tigers on defense will be goalie Maddie Merriman, who impressed last season with 157 saves and 46 ground balls and received All-Section Second Team and All League nods. Rounding out the team's captains will be returning senior defender/midfielder Brady Ellicott.
With solid leadership in place, the Tigers are poised to be a threat on both sides of the ball.
Offensively, junior Taylor Fogle and sophomores Ashley Cindrich and Abby Cassidy will all be returning to their starting roles. Meanwhile, junior Ruby Molina and sophomore Noemi Torres will continue to keep things clamped down on defense. Nicky Berganza will also be seeing more playing time and is a player to watch this season.
Joining the Tigers' ranks will be a trio of freshman, with Alana Cerasoli (midfield), Emma Greenberg (midfield), and Grace Schaeffer (defense) all looking to contribute to the campaign.
With a wealth of talent taking the field, Coach Don Merriman is optimistic about his team's season and the future of lacrosse in North Salem.
“We are also excited to be fielding a JV team this year, which is a testament to the growing interest in lacrosse in North Salem,” explained Merriman. “We are playing another challenging schedule and are looking to improve on our overall record, challenge for a league title, and have fun.”
The Tigers are scheduled to open their season at home on Monday, March 25 against Rye Neck at 4:30 p.m.
]]>MEDFORD, NJ — Perhaps there are some softball teams across the state who are heading towards the regular season with a sense of hesitancy. Don't put the Lenape High School softball program on that list.
The Indians are well-prepared for yet another winning season and they can’t wait to take on the tough competition that awaits them on the field.
Lenape is scheduled to open the regular season with a road game at Paul VI on April 2. Their home opener is scheduled for April 4 versus Cherry Hill East.
“Lenape has won the Olympic Conference championship in the last two seasons,’’ Lenape head coach Eric Krastek said. “One of our goals is to ‘three-peat’ in 2024. We also set the goal of reaching the (NJSIAA Sectional) South Jersey final.’’
Among the returning varsity experienced student athletes for the Indians are Vanessa Meyers (senior, catcher, All Conference and All State Group 4 in 2023), Noelle Beeler (senior, pitcher), Nikki Williams (junior, pitcher), Katie Vuong (junior, outfield, All Conference and All State Group 4 in 2023), Becca Taylor (junior, infield) and Cam Shank (sophomore, outfield, All Conference in 2023).
Newcomers are looking to make a positive impact at the varsity level this spring.
“[We are] looking forward to tryouts to see how players have developed over the off-season and to welcome new freshmen into our program,’’ Krastek said.
Leadership could very well be a key component in favor of the Indians this year.
“We have a great group of experienced returning players who know what it takes to win,’’ Krastek said. “They are hard-working and will lead by example on and off the field.’’
The Indians had an overall record of 22-7 (school record for wins) and they were 11-1 in the Olympic Conference American Division in 2023.
They advanced to the NJSIAA South Jersey Group 4 Sectional Tournament semifinal round before losing a one run game to eventual Sectional champion Kingsway last year. Lenape topped Pennsauken and Rancocas Valley in the Sectionals in 2023.
“The Olympic Conference is always tough,’’ Krastek said. “There are a lot of good programs and it is always competitive. We think we can compete with any of them and look to challenge for a Division title.
“Lenape has been one of the most successful softball programs in South Jersey the last three years with a record of 53 wins and 17 losses since 2021. We have been ranked in the State the past two years. We graduated some very good players last year so other teams may underestimate us. But we think we have the talent and work ethic to win.’’
]]>WASHINGTON, NJ – The newly formed Sparta Middle School archery team brought home the hardware from the New Jersey State National Archery in the Schools/International Bowhunting Organization 3D Challenge state tournament held at Warren Hills High School. The day produced many highlights with “individual standouts and the girls sweeping the podium of individual medals,” Coach AJ Agnor said.
“With only having about two weeks' practice this was better than I even hoped to do,” Agnor said.
"We are very proud of the SMS Archery Team and their accomplishments at the 2024 NJ State NASP/IBO Challenge," Sparta Middle School Principal Frank Ciaburri said. "It was their first competition since last year and with limited practice time their results were truly amazing. Not only are we proud of the individual students who performed so well, but the entire team for placing 2nd overall. We are looking forward to seeing their success as the season moves on."
Natalie Hannum not only earned first place for the girls' middle school division, she took top overall female of the entire tournament that included elementary, middle school and high school archers.
Olivia Stanton placed second for middle school girls as well as taking overall second place female of the tournament. Callie Maines rounded out the Sparta Middle School podium presence with third place.
The Sparta Middle School team finished second, missing the top spot by only five points or one arrow, Coach AJ Agnor said.
Hannum shot the Sparta archery program’s second “50” round on the antelope, “She had all five arrows in the 10 ring bullseye,” according to Agnor. Hannum also led the team with 14 bullseyes.
“She basically did it all. I was so excited and happy for her,” Agnor said. “Our group from last year [Helen Morgan’s team] really helped pace the team holding four of our six scoring spots.”
Maines and Cole Zerby took the other two scoring spots.
The middle school team scored well enough to qualify for the Eastern Nationals 3D event. They also had 11 students score high enough to compete as individuals.
A 3D tournament involves shooting a variety of animal-shaped targets.
The top six middle school scorers; Natalie Hannum 265, Olivia Stanton 263, Callie Maines 259, Cole Zerby 239, Zoey Turrey 235, Alex Kazior 219.
2023-2024 Middle School Roster:
CHATHAM, NJ -- Chatham's 8th Grade Girls Blue team defeated Warren, 45-38, to win the championship of the Jersey Basketball League last Thursday.
It was the second Jersey Basketball League title in the last three years for the team, which finished the 2024 season 15-2.
Members of the 8G Blue: Lucy Arps, Sophia Burgo, Riley Furst, Analia Garcia, Kendall Kiraly, Caroline Kreuzer, Addison McDonough, Leyla Morelli, Madison Tuli, Emma Vermillion, and Tess Vogt.
The head coach was Megan Furst, with assistant coaches Kevin McDonough and Suzanne Vermillion.
]]>ROBBINSVILLE, NJ -- The Robbinsville softball team will open its season on Tuesday, April 2 against the West Windsor-Plainsboro co-op team at West Windsor-Plainsboro South.
The Ravens are coming off a 21-6 season in which they appeared in two championship games -- the Mercer County Tournament final, and the NJSIAA Central Jersey, Group 3 final.
This is head coach Christine Levering's third season leading the program, and Robbinsville has an experienced roster that seems well-equipped to make another run at a title or two.
"We only lost one senior last year, Katie Fowler. She was a key player for us that played second base and had many of our clutch game-winning hits," Levering said.
But the Ravens have a lot of talented players back in the fold, including senior first baseman Reagan Robinson, junior catcher Tuleen Ali, senior pitcher Katie Ziliani, senior shortstop Haley Krebs, senior third baseman Sorella Gallucci, sophomore right fielder Ava Aldarelli, junior CF Ariana Tomlinson and senior LF Caroline Walls.
Tomlinson led Robbinsville in batting with a .485 average last year. Walls and Gallucci each scored a team-high 25 runs and they also tied for the team lead in RBI with 22. Gallucci smacked 13 extra-base hits and Tomlinson collected 12 extra-base hits last season.
Ziliani pitched 155 innings with 149 strikeouts and a 1.49 earned-run average.
The Ravens have depth, too, in the likes of Abby Veisz (C-junior), Lexi Lopez (P-soph), Jordan Grodsky (1B/RF-soph), Katie Murphy (2B/OF-soph), and Hailey Harrison (2B-senior). Lopez sparkled in 21 innings in the circle last year, with 29 strikeouts and a 1.33 ERA. There are also three ninth-graders looking to make an impression: Lucie Canuso (P/2B-freshman), Aubrey Sagar (1B/OF-freshman) and Caroline Kapferer (c/1B-freshman).
"We have four players committed to play in college," Levering said. "Krebs will be attending Campbell University, Robinson will attend Ursinus University, Walls will attend Fairfield University and Gallucci will attend the University of Delaware."
Robbinsville had a .350 team batting average and scored 127 runs last year, an average of 6.6 runs per game.
"Overall, I have a positive outlook on this season," Levering said. "We have a lot of returning talent and they are all excited to get going and accomplish more than we did last year."
]]>NEWARK — The “Weequahic Park 5K Challenge” has 3.1 miles of track and pavement planned for competitors in and around the Essex County park in Newark’s South Ward.
The event set for Sunday, March 24, will include races for both children and adults, along with cash prizes for the top winners, organizers said. The adult course is USATF-sanctioned, and event organizer Lionel Leach, a track and field coach at Essex County College, predicts turnout of about 100 people.
“It’s the first one that we’re having, and we’re looking to make this a tradition,” Leach said. “There will be lots of prizes for each participant. Medals will be given.”
Essex County and Newark City officials are joining for the event, along with the Weequahic Park Sports Authority Conservancy, which is the county’s recreational partner for that park.
It’s an opportunity to generate unity in a time of turmoil, Douglas Freeman, president of the Weequahic Sports Authority Conservancy, said.
“We want to bring back that community energy, that drive, that energy we have when we’re all together,” Freeman said “So, that’s what the 5K is about. It’s for people to come together, no matter what your background is.”
South Ward Councilman Patrick Council said he would be coming from an 8 a.m. Palm Sunday breakfast at Newark’s TREC Center. He looks forward to the race.
“It’s a great opportunity, especially on Palm Sunday, to be able to bring the community together and see the enjoyment of a fun-filled day filled with runners,” said Council, who is a pastor at St. John’s Baptist Church. “There’s a kids run, 5K run and walk.”
Newark Police Division’s 5th Precinct is helping to sponsor the event, Council said.
“It’s a great partnership with the county, the Weequahic Park Sports Authority, our Newark 5th Precinct Police Department and At-Large Essex County Commissioner Wayne Richardson,” Council said.
Outside of the park, the race is planned to run along parts of Bergen Street and Elizabeth Avenue. “We want folks to come out and be a part of it, look out of your window and cheer people on,” Council said.
The Weather Service predicts a mostly sunny Sunday with a high near 47 degrees.
$3,000 in prize money will be available as follows, organizers said:
Age group awards will be presented to the top 3 men and women in 5-year age groups (excluding those who receive an open or masters prize money award).
Richardson, the commissioner who is a longtime Newark resident, said Leach approached him with the idea and he was immediately on board.
“We can work together, come out, have some fun, do some exercises and highlight Weequahic Park and the activities that go on there,” Richardson said.
While the commissioner said he will be at the race, how much running he does remains to be seen.
“I’ll be there,” Richardson said. “I’m not going to guarantee that I’m going to run. I may do a combination of walk-jog-run, but very little running.”
If you go
The Weequahic Park 5K Challenge is scheduled for Sunday morning, March 24, at Essex County’s Weequahic Park, 92 Thomas Carmichael Drive, Newark. The event is USATF-sanctioned. To register, visit www.weequahicpark.com.
The 5K for adults begins at 11 a.m. The price is $30, plus a $2.80 signup fee. The price increases starting on March 23.
The kids’ race begins at 10:30 a.m. It will be held on the turf softball fields near the start/finish line, which is on the track. The price is $5 plus a $1.30 signup fee. The price increases starting March 23.
The race will benefit the youth programs of Essex County and Newark. The event’s charity partner is Tree House Cares, organizers of community events and programs that address food and essential needs insecurities in Essex County and across New Jersey, organizers said.
For results after the race, visit My Race Result.
]]>WOODBRIDGE, NJ —- Jonathan Toczynski, head boys basketball coach at Woodbridge High School, has been named the Middlesex County Coach of the Year by the New Jersey Basketball Coaches Association.
Toczynski just completed his third season as the Barrons' head coach.
In the just-concluded season, Woodbridge went 16-8 and won the Greater Middlesex Conference's White Division with a league record of 12-2. The program has shown steady improvement since Tozcynski, a Business teacher at Woodbridge High School, took over in 2021.
In the last year before Toczynski was hired, Woodbridge had a 2-9 record in the COVID-abbreviated winter season of 2020-21. The Barrons were 4-23 the previous season.
In Toczynski's first season, the team went 8-14. The Barrons improved to 14-12 in 2022-23 before winning their division this winter.
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LIVINGSTON, NJ — Lyla Feldman of the Livingston High School girls basketball team has been named to the Super Essex Conference Colonial Division first team for 2023-24.
Feldman, a sophomore guard, led the Lancers in scoring with 8.8 points per game and in 3-point baskets with 42. She scored a season-high 19 points on Feb. 8 against Payne Tech.
Sophomore guard Aubrey Cohen was selected to the Colonial Division second team in a vote of the conference's coaches, and junior guard Jordyn Fersko received honorable mention.
Livingston won five more games under second-year coach Ashley Addison than the Lancers had the year before, and the team pulled off one of the biggest upsets in New Jersey when the 16th-seed Lancers defeated top-seeded Paterson Eastside, 40-37, in the first round of the NJSIAA Section 1, Group 4 tournament. Feldman had 11 points and three 3-pointers in that game.
]]>St. Bonaventure junior guard Kyrell Luc entered the transfer portal on Monday, according to a report from Verbal Commits.
Luc is the second Bonnie that expressed intent to transfer. Sophomore forward Barry Evans announced he would leave St. Bonaventure on Sunday.
The Dorchester, Massachusetts, native played just 212 minutes this season, averaging 2.1 points in 24 games. He played in just one of the Bonnies’ three Atlantic Tournament games.
Luc served as the point guard last year, starting all 32 games and averaging 33 minutes. He averaged 11 points and four assists and also hit a buzzer beater to tie the game in an eventual loss to George Washington.
Before coming to St. Bonaventure, Luc played a season for Holy Cross where he won Patriot League Rookie of the Year. He averaged 13 points across 31 games for the Crusaders.
Luc is expected to have one year of eligibility remaining.
]]>CROSS RIVER, N.Y. - Last year, John Jay ended their season with three exciting games against Panas. With two of the victories going to the Panthers, there’s no doubt that the Wolves have the sectional champs in their sights.
“Oh yeah, one hundred percent,” said Nolan Rhodes, “We want to win.”
But the third baseman is still putting the first things first.
“We've got to make sure everyone knows their role on this team,” he said.
Of course, he knows his part.
“I got to clean up my play in the field and stick with hitting the ball well,” Rhodes added.
In agreement, Nick Fassert might show Section One a slider this year. But rolling down the hill will mostly be status quo for the senior.
“I’m just going to keep doing what I’m doing,” Fassert revealed.
That said, he’s actually looking to throw the change in the batter’s box.
“I want to focus on my hitting and be more consistent,” he said.
On the mound too, Storch was there already as a hitting pitcher. A .362 average in his freshman year, he wants to do more to catch up to the fastball and pick out the right pitches to hit.
Also at shortstop, Storch did get schooled in the postseason after he felt he got off to a great start in the field. A bunch of bad hops coming his way in Eastchester, he has learned from the experience.
“I have a whole different view of fielding,” said Storch.
A sophomore now, he’s getting his first taste of leadership.
“Luke Fisch is a freshman, it’s kind of cool guiding him around in what to do in the infield,” said Storch.
The right approach, Fassert extrapolates.
“I’m really excited for this year,” said the pitcher. “We've got to keep working hard out there every day.”
A baseline that emerged in part from the heartbreak of defeat, according to assistant coach Ken Santoianni.
“It forged this team. It made them a closer unit, and they’ve brought that with them for this year,” he concluded.
]]>BRIDGEWATER, NJ - Bridgewater-Raritan High School held its annual Dodge It! Tournament March 8, and raised more than $1,700 for the PTO to be used toward student scholarships, teacher grants and student events.
The National Anthem was performed by Jayleen Alvarado and Josh Sagare.
In the tournament, 24 student teams entered, with the winner being "Balls of Steels." On the team were Matthew Di Eduardo, Lucas Travisano, Philip Alifano, Jace Bruns, Hack Lanum, Matt Cichocki, Louis Aponte, Jaime deVera and Jayden Rosado.
The winner of the most creative dodgeball team was "Reusable Ballz," and the winner of the costume contest was "Hungry Hippos.
]]>WEST CALDWELL, NJ -- Four members of the Caldwell High School boys basketball team have been named to the Super Essex Conference's All-Liberty Division teams.
Senior guard Mike Zamloot was selected to the division's first team in a vote of the conference's coaches. Zamloot averaged 9.2 points and led the Chiefs (13-12) in 3-point baskets with 28 in 2023-24.
Lance Jenkins, a senior forward, was named to the division's second team. He averaged 9.7 points a game and was among the Chiefs' top rebounders.
Dan Paris and Joe Giannetta of Caldwell both received honorable mention.
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NORTH SALEM, N.Y. - Last spring, North Salem’s storied baseball program endured a rare year of disappointment. The team was rebuilding, and saw their season end with an 11-1 out-bracket loss to Ardsley.
With the dawn of a new season upon us, that early exit is a distant memory and the Tigers look poised to return to form.
Leading the charge on the diamond will be a talented core of seniors, including Nate Baer (OF), Reilly Denneen (OF/RHP), Nick Foglia (INF), Peter Guiliano (OF), and David Torres (INF/RHP).
Bolstering the roster will be returning juniors Lucas Balbino, CJ Casale, and Justin Cuello, sophomores Ryan Denneen and Alex Hoffman, and a crop of freshmen including Jack Braz, Ben Guiliano, Jack Lukse, William Trickel, and Jack Watson. Eighth-grader Jonathan Major will also join the Tiger ranks.
At the helm will once again be Coach Rob Gilchrist, who is anticipating good things from his squad as they look to return to form in Class C.
“We’re looking forward to having a successful and exciting season,” said Gilchrist.
The Tigers will open the season on Tuesday, March 26 at home against Blind Brook at 4:30 p.m.
]]>CEDAR GROVE, NJ -- Four players from Cedar Grove High School who are members of the Clifton United tri-op ice hockey team have been named to the Big North Conference 2024 All Patriot Division team.
Sophomore Ryan Montana was selected to the first team in a vote of the conference's coaches. Montana scored a team-high 33 goals and passed for 10 assists this past season.
Junior defenseman Jonathan Montana was named to the division's second team. He tied for the team lead in assists with 22 and scored 10 goals.
Honorable mentions went to senior defenseman Colin Healey and sophomore forward Leo Marzullo.
MOUNT LAUREL, NJ — Two stand-out players on the Lenape Regional High School basketball team have been named to all-star teams with the Albert J. Carino Girls Basketball Club.
Lenape freshman El-Anita Joe-Samuel and junior Alexa Henry were selected for the 2024 All-South Jersey "Second Team" as well as the 2024 All-Group "Team 2."
Created in 1962 by Al Carino, the retired coach at Rutgers-Camden, and Courier Post writers Charlie Schuck and Walt Burrows, the Basketball Club promotes scholastic basketball in the region.
The Club says that annual selections for the All-South Jersey and All-Group lists are "based entirely on coaches nominations and votes. Ballots were sent to all of our membership coaches, and were collected/tallied by club members."
The Club's All-Star games are played in March to honor Women's History Month.
Read More Local Mount Laurel, NJ News
MORE: One Word To Describe Lenape Girls Basketball: Champions
]]>SOUTH PLAINFIELD, NJ – The South Plainfield Parents’ Ponytail Association (SPPPA) is gearing up for its first ever golf outing fundraiser.
“We have never held a fundraiser like this before and are looking forward to a fun event,” said Rick McCriskin, fundraising co-chair and the golf outing’s organizer. “A lot of people in town like to play golf, and we are hoping they will come out and support us and South Plainfield Ponytail Softball.”
Set to take place on Thursday, June 6 at Galloping Hill Golf Course, the event will feature a scramble format limited to 120 golfers. Entry, which is $200 per person/$800 per foursome, includes a continental breakfast, use of locker room, green and cart fees, driving range shuttle, lunch, and door prizes/awards. There will also be a long drive, closest to the pin, closest to the line, 50/50 raffle, and other contests. Day-of registration and breakfast will take place from 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. followed by a 9 a.m. shotgun start with lunch and awards taking place at 2 p.m.
Sponsorships are also available and greatly appreciated. The options are as follows: Premiere (includes 4-some, name/logo on welcome gift): $2,500; Lunch: $2,000; Breakfast: $1,500; Cigar Truck: $750; Beverage: $500; and Hole: $225. One may also attend just lunch to support the cause at the cost of $75 per person.
According to Gary Cassio, president of the SPPPA, all proceeds raised at the organization’s fundraising events, such as the upcoming inaugural golf outing as well as the annual comedy night and tournaments, go to benefit both recreation and travel softball programs with monies used to upgrade and maintain fields, provide uniforms and apparel, hold the line on registration fees, and provide players with free winter workouts.
Additionally, said McCrisken, a portion of proceeds from the golf outing will be donated to the recreation department’s Buddy Ball program.
“The South Plainfield Parents’ Ponytail Association falls under the borough recreation department and we thought it would be nice to give back to a cause that helps and benefits both our rec and travel programs as well as one that is dedicated to helping special needs children,” McCrisken said.
Registration for the SPPPA’s June 6 golf event outing is currently open and runs through May 30; to sign up, scan the QR code below or fill out on the online form by clicking here. Payments, including checks made out to SPPPA, can also be sent to PO Box 441, South Plainfield, NJ 07080 or made through Zelle (Jencurrao@yahoo.com). For more information, email spponytailsoftball@gmail.com.
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WEST ORANGE, NJ -- In the heart of West Orange High School, two unsung heroes reign supreme: Gene Palatianos and Ashley Sivo. As National Athletic Training Month takes center stage, we shine the spotlight on these dynamic athletic trainers "From Head to Toe" whose passion and dedication fuel the spirit of the game.
With 26 years of experience in the trenches, Gene Palatianos embodies the essence of athletic training. From his roots at Kean University to the halls of West Orange High School, Gene's journey is one of relentless dedication and commitment. For Gene, the thrill lies not in the victories on the field, but in the triumphs of his athletes' recovery journeys. From the weight room to the sidelines, Gene's presence is felt — a beacon of strength and resilience for those in need.
Ashley Sivo is a force to be reckoned with in her own right. With nine years of experience under her belt, Ashley's journey from Seton Hall University to West Orange High School is a testament to her passion for the craft. For Ashley, the joy of athletic training lies in the moments of redemption -- when sidelined athletes rise from injury, their determination burning brighter than ever before.
In a playful homage to their craft, Gene and Ashley partnered with the West Orange High School Sports Media Association and took to social media to showcase the quirks and nuances of life as athletic trainers at West Orange High School. From the legendary "best ice" to the ever-present AED by their side, their Instagram escapade captures the essence of their profession — a delicate balance of professionalism and camaraderie, where every detail matters.
Click HERE to watch the video.
During National Athletic Training Month, let us raise an extra toast to Gene, Ashley, and all the unsung heroes who work tirelessly behind the scenes. Theirs is a world of grit and determination, where victory is measured not in touchdowns or goals, but in the resilience of the human spirit. So here's to you Gene and Ashley —the silent guardians of the game, whose dedication keeps our athletes safe, healthy, and ready to conquer the world, one game at a time.
]]>St. Bonaventure sophomore forward Barry Evans will transfer, according to a report from The Portal Report.
He confirmed on X Sunday afternoon.
Evans averaged 3.3 points and 5.0 rebounds in 33 games this season, making three starts. He shot 59% from the field and 32% from deep, including a 3-pointer that sparked a comeback in Thursday's Atlantic 10 Tournament quarterfinal game against Loyola Chicago.
In his freshman season, the Baltimore, native averaged 3.0 points and 3.6 rebounds. He started 21 of 32 games as the team went 14-18.
Evans helped lead Putnam Science Academy to a national prep championship before coming to Western New York. Current Bonnies' assistant Dana Valentine coached as an assistant at PSA while Evans played there. Nick Schmidt, son of St. Bonaventure coach Mark Schmidt, also coaches at PSA.
Evans has two years of eligibility remaining.
]]>WOODBRIDGE, NJ — Harry Rutkowski, a former stand-out baseball pitcher at Woodbridge High School and Rutgers University, has signed a deal to play for the Staten Island FerryHawks, a minor-league pro baseball team.
A left-handed (or “southpaw”) pitcher, Rutkowski signed with the FerryHawks during a March 14th ceremony at The Club at Woodbridge, with local officials, family and friends on hand. Rutkowski also autographed a FerryHawks shirt for Mayor John E. McCormac, one of his more prominent fans Watch the ceremony here:
Rutkowski is best known as a four-year varsity ball player for the Woodbridge High Barrons, who went on to pitch for the Scarlet Knights. His college career stats are available online here.
Rutkowski ended his high school career in a tie as the most-winning pitcher in Greater Middlesex Conference history, with a 27-6 record and 348 strikeouts over 244 innings.
Rutkowski was awarded the Greater Middlesex Conference “Cy Young Award,” the league’s highest honor.
After high school, Rutkowski was a 28th-round pick by the Cincinnati Reds, but he decided to defer pro-baseball so he could attend Rutgers, majoring in criminal justice.
At Rutgers, Rutkowski tied for third in Scarlet Knight’s history with 44 career starts; third with 221 strikeouts; and 10th with 249.2 innings pitched.
He initially signed with the Toronto Blue Jays before he was picked up by North Carolina’s Gastonia Honey Hunters, and now traded to the Staten Island FerryHawks, who play at Staten Island University Hospital Community Park’s baseball stadium.
]]>CROSS RIVER, N.Y. - Last year, the John Jay girls lacrosse team made it all the way to the state finals before going home with second place.
Proceeding with an agenda of finishing the job is not the mindset of the coach or her team.
“We’re really good about staying in the moment and trying to get better every day,” said Coach Jess McDonough.
But they aren’t completely wiping the memory clean.
“We’re hoping to play up to where we ended last year,” she added.
With Mary Murphy, Jordan Kauftheil, and Jane Brennan coming back, the defensive gears are primed to grind.
“We’re ready to step up, stop the ball and work on different sets,” said McDonough.
In anchor, Molly Gallagher is on familiar ground between the pipes.
“She’s a junior now. She has a year of varsity under her belt. So I think she’s excited for the challenge and get better each game,” said McDonough.
Of course, the goalie will still have to acclimate some new blood into the system, and she looks forward to helping to piece the puzzle together. On the other hand, achieving synergy is less about lacrosse, according to Gallagher.
“Our goal is to get really close this year as a team,” she said.
On the attack, JoJo Degl is back in the middle of the field.
“I love it. I’ve been playing midfield since I’ve been playing lacrosse,” said the junior.
Not a one woman show, Degl likes her backup.
“Logan Bueti is an awesome attacker, she is really kicking butt, and Kaitlin Condon is also awesome, I’m loving her confidence,’ Degl asserted.
Kayla Shapiro, Finja Degl, Amelia Inglis, Olivia Cervantes and Molly Willingham also on the move. There’s no offense without the defense, and Degl revels in running with the new Wolves on that side of the field too.
“Audrey Oestreicher is super fast, Sela Halaifonua has come back to lacrosse, playing great defense and Caitlin Brennan is playing great down there too, taking after her sister,” said Degl.
In the mix, Nicole DiNapoli is also stepping up on the attack, while not forgetting the Wolves who have stepped aside. Shannon Nolan, Mia Puccio, Meghan Condon and Annabel Brennan, said the senior, “We miss them all the time, and we’re constantly talking about the legacy they left behind.”
Still, she welcomes the chance to fill the void.
“It’s an exciting responsibility,” said DiNapoli.
No doubt contagious, McDonough reaps plenty of reward.
“These girls bring smiles, hard work, a positive attitude and that’s all I can ask,” concluded the coach.
]]>HAMILTON, NJ - Students at Yardville Elementary School will have new goals when they get back to class on Monday, literally.
Over the weekend, volunteers from the Hamilton Township Recreation Soccer Association (HTRSA) and the school joined together to assemble a set of goals that were donated by the youth soccer league.
According to one of the organizers, the idea came from Siobhan Bliefernich who noticed the school could use a new set of goals, and, with the support of Principal Rich Czyz, asked the HTRSA if they could assist.
It just so happened that HTRSA had a single set of used goals that could be sent their way, the league said.
“The hope is that these older (but new) goals create memories and smiles, as well as a passion for the sport,” the HTRSA said on Facebook, thanking the volunteers to who helped assembly them, complete with new nets. “Thank you to Mrs Bliefernich and Principal Czyz for allowing us to fill this playground void.”
]]>NORTH SALEM, N.Y. - With the weather warming up, North Salem’s golfers are preparing for another season of competition on the links.
This year, the Tigers are rejuvenated with interest coming from a fresh pool of players who are new to the sport.
Once again, the team will be led by standout James Nemeth. Nemeth will look to build off of his impressive 8th Grade season last year and could represent North Salem in the sectionals when the postseason arrives.
Other key players will include senior James Stiehl, who has showed great improvement from last season, and freshman Lucas Virzi and sophomore Aidan Santis who demonstrated promise during competitive matches last spring.
“As a young team, we hope to be competitive in every match this season and use this year as a stepping-stone for the next two to three years and become a contending team in Section 1,” explained Coach Chris Brandt. “This is going to be a special group of players. This group does not like to lose and they all have that inner motivation to become winners and succeed. As a coach, I could not be more excited for this season and our team's future for our golf program.”
]]>LITTLE FALLS, NJ - The Passaic Valley High School boys basketball team wrapped up its season with several players receiving recognition for their outstanding performance. Among those honored were Hamza Ibrahim, Stavros Makrygiannis, Kris Lozano West, Jordan Corprew, and Sal Panicucci.
Ibrahim was acknowledged with various accolades, including 1st Team recognition in the Independence Division Boys Basketball All League and a place on the Passaic County 2nd Team. Makrygiannis and Lozano West also earned 2nd Team honors in the Independence Division, while Corprew and Panicucci received Honorable Mentions.
The team finished with a season record of 11-12.
"We battled, won some tough games, lost some close games, but we competed night in and night out," Head Coach Kevin Tuohey said. "Almost every game was a one-possession game late in the fourth quarter, which made it very exciting and frustrating at times."
The Hornets also won their holiday tournament, ranked in the top 25 for most of the season, and hosted a County game.
"One of our main goals was qualifying for the State Tournament, which is an achievement in itself since our section was loaded with a lot of great teams," Tuohey said.
Notable victories included hard-fought wins against Clifton (56-50), DePaul Catholic (57-65), and Wayne Hills (64-61).
Preparation for the State Tournament was rigorous, with the team fully aware of the challenges ahead, particularly facing defending Group 3 State champions Ramapo. Despite falling short in the tournament, the experience provided valuable lessons for both seniors and underclassmen.
"Looking ahead, we are hoping to continue to build a competitive program and to give our student-athletes the best experience on and off the court," Tuohey said. "We want our program players to continue to grow individually as players working on their skills and overall game in the off-season. All players should be working out to be stronger and more physical for next year's season."
"I am proud of the commitment of all the players and the continued success and understanding of our team concepts," he added. "It is important to teach kids how to play and to make reads on the offensive end instead of just teaching the plays."
The coaching staff emphasizes team defensive concepts, ensuring that all players actively engage in guarding the ball rather than relying solely on the on-ball defender. Communication during possession is highlighted as a key component, fostering cohesion and strategic play on the court. The program places a strong emphasis on coachability and accountability, instilling these values from the freshman level upward.
Looking forward, Tuohey remains enthusiastic about the potential of future Hornets and is committed to elevating the program to new heights.
]]>NORTH CALDWELL, NJ -- Three members of the West Essex High School boys basketball team have been named to the Super Essex Conference's All-Colonial Division teams.
Ethan Saccone, a senior guard, was selected to the first team in a vote of the conference's coaches. Saccone averaged 12 points, 5.0 rebounds and 3.3 assists per game for the Knights. He also led the team in steals with 35.
Gianluca Vescuso, a senior guard, was named to the second team. He averaged 13.9 points with a team-high 64 3-point baskets in 2023-24.
Max Garcia, a junior forward, was given honorable mention. A three-sport standout who also stars in baseball and football at West Essex, Garcia averaged 8 points and 5 rebounds this winter.
]]>STATEN ISLAND, NY — On March 3, Millburn High School participated in the NJSIAA Meet of Champions. Liam Kelly, a senior at Millburn High School, previously broke the school’s record for the NJSIAA Group 2&3 Track & Field Championships’ indoor 400M by completing the event in 50.13 seconds. At the March 3 event, he repeated the achievement by setting a new personal record of 49.65 seconds. TAPinto interviewed Kelly to understand what contributed to these milestones.
TAPinto: How does it feel to have achieved this personal record?
LIAM KELLY: It feels amazing. I’ve been working towards this goal ever since sophomore year, and it’s just amazing to finally reach it.
T: How did you feel while running?
LK: When I run it’s almost like I enter a flow state. I don’t think or feel at all, all I know is to run and to not let anyone catch me.
T: How do you prepare mentally and physically for a race like this one and in general?
LK: Before races I like to listen to music to get me into race mode. I also like talking to my coaches, they really help me stay in the right state of mind and make sure I’m race ready before the gun goes off.
T: What challenges did you face leading up to this race, and how did you overcome them? What significant challenges have you faced in the past?
LK: A challenge I have faced and have been facing is getting nervous before my race. Two things that usually help are my teammates/coaches and square breathing. My coaches and teammates always get me to feel more confident and comfortable at the meets and without them, I would not be where I am today, so I owe them a lot. In addition to this, the square breathing allows me to calm down at the line when my coaches and teammates can’t speak to me.
T: As a member of the track and field team, how have your coaches and teammates contributed to your success as an athlete?
LK: I owe my coaches and teammates everything. Like I said before, they are the people that get me race ready and thus allow me to perform as well as I do. Without them, I would never have been able to be as good of an athlete as I am now.
T: How have you balanced your various athletic, academic, and extracurricular commitments?
LK: A thing I’ve learned from doing sports at this level is that time management is key. I do most of my homework during the school hours and, if not, I will do it after practice. Studying for tests is a bit tricky due to the fact I get home a bit late from practice, but overall I’d say just staying focused and pushing through my work has allowed me to live a life outside of track and school.
T: What advice do you have for athletes who want to achieve similar success in track and field (and sports in general)?
LK: One piece of advice I would give is that if you think you are going to fail, you will fail, but if you go into something with an open mind, you will never fail; you will only learn. Just never give up and keep pushing forward.
Now that Kelly has broken the school’s indoor record, he hopes to break the school’s outdoor record as well, and he is prepared to put in more effort to achieve this. Best of luck to Liam Kelly and his teammates in their future track endeavors.
]]>BASKING RIDGE, NJ- This past weekend, the Ridge Track and Field Team traveled up to Boston to compete at New Balance Indoor Nationals! From Thursday through Sunday, 15 different athletes from Ridge raced, with some personal bests, season best relay times, and an All-American relay!
On Thursday, freshmen Kenji Hou and Tristan Frank raced in the freshman 400. Both of them crushed the qualifying standard of 56 seconds to enter in this event. Kenji ran a 54.20, and Tristan ran a 55.07- both great times for freshmen.
On Friday, the boys Distance Medley Relay had an awesome performance, placing 4th overall, and earning All-American status. With senior Dev Patel running 3:08.86 for the 1200, senior Owen Mays running 51.49 for the 400, senior Edward Condolon running 1:56.46 for the 800, and junior Brenden McMahon bringing it home with a 4:13.41 1600 leg, the squad had a total time of 10:10.20, improving on their season best. This relay team now has the 2nd and 3rd fastest DMR times in school history, only behind the high school national record of 9:53.40 set by Ridge in 2022.
On Saturday morning, Owen took on the 60m hurdles bright and early running a competitive time of 8.59 against stacked competition. Later that afternoon, Brenden McMahon dropped an incredible time in the 2 mile, running 9:04.07! Placing 2nd in his heat and 15th overall, this time converts down to a 9:00.91 3200 meter run, a 17 second indoor personal best. Brenden improves his standing as #2 on the Ridge all time list, over 25 seconds ahead of Ridge #3.
On Sunday, the boys Shuttle Hurdle Relay improved on their school record with a time of 32.14. The team of juniors Joseph Dachnowicz, Jared Rascio, and Marcus Reilly and senior Owen Mays holds the top 2 times in school history, with this 32.14 and their previous record of 32.39. Up next was the 4x800 relay. The boys ran an 8:01.34 , with Brenden McMahon and Edward Condolon both splitting 1:58s and junior Kaleb Huang setting a new relay split PR of 2:02.10. Right after the boys were the girls, who set a new season best of 9:31.29! With senior Elena Nicholson leading off in 2:26.25, senior Ryan Ireland running the second leg in 2:21.37, senior Elayna Douglas running 2:25.69, and senior Katharine Frank anchoring in 2:18.00, the girls had a really strong performance to close out their season. Finally, the boys 4x400 relay of juniors Joseph Dachnowicz and Chase Fritz, and seniors Edward Condolon and Owen Mays ran a 3:26.63 to finish out the weekend. This time is #3 in school history, and this same team holds the school record of 3:24.88, set last weekend at the New Jersey Meet of Champions.
Next up for Ridge is the Spring Track Season, kicking off later this month!
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