
Watch Wednesday 5.25 JSZ Playoff Lacrosse Highlights
Public sectional semifinal action on the boys side and JSZ was all around the state, capturing highlights from five games! Check back throughout the night as the highlights are posted. Hunterdon Central 8 Westfield 7 (OT) | Group 4 North Semifinal The phrase “instant classic” gets tossed around regularly – but there’s no question that’s what this game was. Dylan Johnson hit a remarkable golden goal from his knees to send the Red Devils back to a sectional title game for the second straight year. Johnson led Hunterdon Central (18-0) with three goals on the day. Westfield (11-7) fought back numerous times in this game to get it to overtime. JSZ’s Jay Cook has the highlights and reaction from a legitimate Game of the Year nominee in Flemington: Jersey Sports Zone’s coverage of Hunterdon Central is brought to you by Robert Wood Johnson University hospital in Somerville. Jersey Sports Zone’s coverage of Westfield is brought to you by Senator Jon Bramnick. Scotch Plains-Fanwood 10 Randolph 8 | Group 3 North Semifinal Scotch Plains-Fanwood defeated Randolph 10-8 to reach the program’s first Sectional Final. After SPF opened with a score, Randolph with three straight goals went ahead 3-1. However, the Raiders would retake the lead and entered halftime up 8-6. Scotch Plains-Fanwood would hold onto a two goal advantage for the duration of the game. Jake Monroy finished with four goals for SPF. JSZ’s Nery Rodriguez has the highlights: Thank you to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital (Rahway) for sponsoring our Scotch Plains-Fanwood coverage. Southern 12 Howell 4 | Group 5 South Semifinal The Rams raced out to a 4-0 lead after the first period and never looked back. NJIT commit Ryan Sininsky and Jake Washco paced top-seeded Southern (15-3) with three goals each in the win. Vinny Burns scored two goals for the fifth-seeded Rebels (14-7) in the loss. Southern will now face third-seeded Lenape for the sectional crown this weekend. JSZ’s Mike Frankel has the highlights from Manahawkin: JSZ’s playoff lacrosse coverage is made possible in part by OceanFirst Bank. Manasquan 7 Wall 6 | Group 2 South Semifinal Robert Pendergist’s goal with 1:10 remaining was the game-winner that allowed the Warriors to avenge a Shore Conference Tournament loss to Wall and earn a spot in the Group 2 South championship game against Rumson-Fair Haven. Pendergist had missed three games with a shoulder injury and entered the game in the second half. James Farinacci had three goals to lead the Warriors and Robert Parazzo, who also returned from injury, had the game-tying goal in the fourth quarter. JSZ’s Rich Chrampanis has the highlights and post-game reaction from an awesome All-Shore state playoff matchup: Jersey Sports Zone’s coverage of Wall is brought to you by Monmouth Medical Center Haddonfield 11 Shore Regional 6 | Group 1 South Semifinal Trailing 4-3 at halftime, the Bulldogs surged in the second half to avenge its loss to the Blue Devils a year ago and punch its ticket to the sectional finals. Delaware commit Finn Morgan tallied three goals and three assists as Haddonfield outscored Shore 8-2 in the second half. Blaise Coley, Ryan Ward, Marcus DeVita, and Asher Conrey each scored a pair of goals in the win for Haddonfield (13-3). Sam Madalone scored two goals in the loss for Shore Regional (12-4). Haddonfield will face top-seed Caldwell in the Group 1 South final on Saturday. JSZ’s James Mooney has the highlights and reaction: Jersey Sports Zone’s coverage of Shore Regional is brought to you by Monmouth Medical Center.
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Each week JSZ will bring you ten nominations, for current sports in different regions for our Game Ball Awards. These nominations are composed of athletes who had top, player of the week-worthy, performances across the State. You’ll be able to vote for your favorite athlete…the votes tallied, and the winners will be awarded a JSZ Game Ball & Game Ball Ceremony. (Polls closes every Tuesday at 3PM)
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Our voting polls work very simply…every vote for someone counts. You may vote as many times as you’d like, but you cannot use a bot to vote continuously or automatically…we have software that detects bots and then disqualifies those votes.
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Because the votes come in very fast and in large numbers, there are times when you vote for someone and you might see their percentage of the actual vote drop. This is due to the fact that during the voting period, thousands of votes can be registered in a matter of a few minutes, so if another athlete is receiving a larger number of votes, their percentage will increase, while the people with fewer votes will see their overall percentage decrease.
How the Voting Works
Voting is Open to Everyone
Our weekly polls are accessible to everyone. You do not need an All Access Pass!
Every Vote Counts
Our voting polls work very simply…every vote for someone counts. You may vote as many times as you’d like, but you cannot use a bot to vote continuously or automatically…we have software that detects bots and then disqualifies those votes.
Don’t be alarmed…
Because the votes come in very fast and in large numbers, there are times when you vote for someone and you might see their percentage of the actual vote drop. This is due to the fact that during the voting period, thousands of votes can be registered in a matter of a few minutes, so if another athlete is receiving a larger number of votes, their percentage will increase, while the people with fewer votes will see their overall percentage decrease.
IMPORTANT- PLEASE NOTE:
BECAUSE OF YOUR BROWSER AND/OR ROUTER CACHING, YOU MAY VOTE MULTIPLE TIMES AND THEN NOT SEE THE TOTAL VOTES CHANGE FOR THE PERSON YOU ARE VOTING FOR. THIS IS A CACHING ISSUE WITH YOUR BROWSER AND/OR ROUTER. IT IS NOT BECAUSE OF ANYTHING UNDERHANDED. BE ASSURED THAT YOUR VOTES ARE BEING TABULATED BY OUR POLLING PLATFORM, AND WILL SHOW IN THE FINAL TOTALS. OUR VOTING/POLLING PLATFORM RECOGNIZES BOTS , AND WILL AUTOMATICALLY SHUT OUT ANY IP ADDRESS WHERE A BOT IS DISCOVERED, SO NO ONE CAN ‘GAME THE SYSTEM’. WE STRIVE TO ENSURE THAT THE RESULTS ARE FAIR.
THANK YOU FOR YOUR UNDERSTANDING.
All-Zone Team

JSZ’s Announces Hockey Postseason Awards!
New Jersey’s 2021-2022 high school hockey season was one for the record books. We saw some teams flirt with perfection, others make school history while many players took their respective games to new heights. Here, our team at Jersey Sports Zone honors the very best from this past season. Follow along as our full postseason award announcements roll out! CBA’s Zach Wagnon Wins JSZ’s 2022 Hockey Player of the Year Zach Wagnon’s senior season was dominant from start to finish. The top forward at Christian Brothers Academy, Wagnon accumulated 24 goals and a staggering 50 assists while leading the Colts to a near perfect year. The Yale University commit – who was named the Gordon Conference MVP – helped lead CBA to a 27-0-3 record along with a Gordon Cup championship along with a Non-Public state title. Wagnon was unanimously selected by JSZ’s staff as this year’s winner. JSZ’s Jay Cook profiles the standout forward: JSZ’s Hockey Player of the Year History 2022: Zach Wagnon, CBA 2021: Connor Sedlak, Don Bosco 2020: John Donohoe, CBA 2019: Tyler Sedlak, Don Bosco 2018: Mickey Burns, Don Bosco Morristown-Beard’s Leah Stecker Wins JSZ’s 2022 Girls Hockey Player of the Year Morristown-Beard was once again crowned the number one Girls Ice Hockey team in New Jersey this past season and that was thanks in large part to senior leader Leah Stecker. The Penn State commit finished the year with 19 goals and eclipsed the 100 point mark in her Crimson career. Stecker exits high school with 67 goals total and the only two girls ice hockey state titles to be played in NJ’s history so far. JSZ is proud to announce Stecker as our inaugural winner of the award. JSZ’s Nery Rodriguez has the story: JSZ’s 2022 All-Zone Team Every year, we put a spotlight on the best players to grace the ice in the Garden State. This year, however, we are splitting our All-Zone teams up into a public team and a non-public team. There’s no first, second or third team all-state here – we just take the very best from throughout the year. 2022 All-Zone Public Team GoaliesDefensemanForwards Shane Cook, Governor LivingstonThomas Conrod, WestfieldEgor Barabanov, Ridge Daniel Moor, Northern HighlandsAndreas Forand, Middletown SouthRowan Brennan, Verona Zach Turbin, LivingstonZach Gold, VeronaColin Delanzo, Middletown North Luke Dickerson, Morris Knolls Will Fuller, Northern Highlands Jace Koenigsmark, Middletown North Brian Kramer, Governor Livingston Denis Kuzmenkov, Ridge Matteo Mancheno, Westfield Brett Pritchard, Rumson-Fair Haven Austin Vecchio, Livingston 2022 All-Zone Non-Public Team GoaliesDefensemanForwardsPlayers of the Year John Donohoe, CBAMatthew Desiderio, Bergen CatholicAntonio Arcaroli, Bergen CatholicZach Wagnon, CBA - 2022 JSZ Boys Player of the Year Jason Cai, DelbartonNoah Jones, Morristown-BeardLeighton Biesidadecki, CBA Lukas Peterson, Don Bosco PrepEvan Brown, CBALeah Stecker, Morristown-Beard - 2022 JSZ Girls Player of the Year Patrick Reilly, CBANick Faccone, Delbarton Aidan Guinnessey, CBA Hollis Humphries, Morristown-Beard Matt Imbriano, Don Bosco Prep John Mustard, Bergen Catholic Ty Oller, Don Bosco Prep Trip Pendy, Delbarton Billy Sheridan, Gloucester Catholic Jersey Sports Zone’s full postseason award coverage is made possible by RWJ Barnabas Health, a proven supporter of New Jersey high school sports.

Meet the 2021 JSZ Zoneman Trophy Finalists
Jersey Sports Zone is excited to formally announce the seven finalists for the 2021 Zoneman Trophy — JSZ’s high school football player of the year in New Jersey. The winner will be announced on Thursday, Dec. 16. Watch all seven features from our team of multimedia journalists to learn more about New Jersey’s top football honor! The History of the Zoneman Trophy By Rich Chrampanis, Jersey Sports Zone Chief Operating Officer In the year 2000, I received the great honor of a Heisman Trophy ballot as I started my tenure on television at WPDE-TV in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. I was so excited to get the chance to weigh in on such a significant award and it got me thinking of bringing the same kind of excitement to our high school football coverage. So we built a trophy and instead of the Heisman, the Zoneman was born. During my 15 years, we were fortunate to have some outstanding winners of our award starting with former Pittsburgh Steelers and Miami Dolphins linebacker Lawrence Timmons, former Notre Dame quarterback Everett Golson and current Las Vegas Raiders wide receivers Hunter Renfrow, who caught the game-winning TD pass for Clemson in the 2016 National Championship game along with Bryan Edwards. The Zoneman tradition is still going strong in South Carolina, began its New Jersey chapter on the Jersey Shore and is now a statewide honor. We’re excited to continue this tradition in New Jersey high school football as we will present the most outstanding player in the state with our Fifth Annual Zoneman Trophy. Previous Zoneman Trophy Winners: 2017: Ashante Worthy, Freehold Boro QB 2018: Jalahn Dabney, Somerville QB 2019: Fadil Diggs, Woodrow Wilson DL/WR | Texas A&M 2020: Audric Estime, St. Joe’s (Mont.) RB | Notre Dame The Zoneman Trophy Balloting The 2021 Zoneman Trophy will be voted on by coaches from each conference in the state (SFC, WJFL, NJIC, Big Central and Shore) as well as Jersey Sports Zone’s staff of multimedia journalists and other credentialed media around the state. Each ballot includes a first-place vote (three points), second place vote (two points) and a third place vote (one point). We are honored to announce the 2021 Zoneman Trophy Finalists in alphabetical order! Meet The 2021 Zoneman Trophy Finalists LeQuint Allen, Millville RB The face of Millville football boasted an incredible level of physicality and athleticism throughout the entire 2021 season. LeQuint Allen ran wild against defenses from the start of the year in Ocean City until the end at Rutgers University, where the Thunderbolts capped off a 12-1 season with a South Group 4 Regional Championship. He rushed for 1,901 yards on 229 carries and found the endzone 23 times. Allen is committed to Syracuse University. JSZ’s Mike Frankel has the profile: Tommy Amankwaa, Hillsborough ATH Tommy Amankwaa was one of the most improved players in the entire state of New Jersey from his junior to senior seasons. Amankwaa was a true swiss army knife weapon for the Raiders. On offense, he tallied 99 total touches for 1,726 scrimmage yards and a combined 27 touchdowns as Hillsborough put together a perfect 13-0 season. His red-hot play this season earned him an offer from Rutgers – he verbally committed to the Scarlet Knights soon after. JSZ’s Nery Rodriguez has the profile: Steve Angeli, Bergen Catholic QB Steve Angeli’s legacy at Bergen Catholic is undeniable after a historic season in Oradell. Angeli led the Crusaders to a perfect 12-0 season, a Non-Public A championship and a top-five national ranking in 2021. The Crusaders’ signal caller brought his game to a new level this season after throwing for 1,709 yards and 15 touchdowns in one of the toughest conferences in the entire country. Angeli, a natural leader and an Under Armour All-American, graduates high school in December and will be enrolled at Notre Dame after the New Year. JSZ’s Jay Cook has the profile: JoJo Bermudez, Cedar Creek WR A true speedster and the definition of a deep threat, JoJo Bermudez was a game-breaking talent for Cedar Creek in 2021. Bermudez hauled in an unsightly 91 catches for 1,662 yards and 14 touchdowns for the Pirates. Bermudez dominated defensive backfields all season long and helped Cedar Creek to a perfect 13-0 season. His blazing start to the regular season caught the eyes of coaches from Cincinnati, as he is now verbally committed to the Bearcats. JSZ’s Mike Frankel has the profile: Alex Brown, Red Bank Catholic QB Alex Brown’s story throughout the 2021 postseason is well documented and will be talked about for years to come on Broad Street. Following the death of his mother, Brown delivered 12 touchdowns and no turnovers in the Caseys’ three-game playoff run to win the Non-Public B championship. The Bucknell commit ultimately threw for 1,817 yards and 22 touchdown passes with 519 rushing yards and 10 touchdown runs in his lone season at Red Bank Catholic. JSZ’s Rich Chrampanis has the profile: Davison Igbinosun, Union ATH There’s no arguments here: Davison Igbinosun is one of the most dynamic players in the entire state of New Jersey. Igbinosun was a hawking defensive back and a devastating weapon on offense for the Farmers in his final high school year. He was the top reciever and rusher for the Farmers’ offense and notched 74 tackles and three interceptions on defense. Union’s season had an unceremonious ending, but that doesn’t take away from the impact he had in a 9-2 season in Union County. Q’yaier Price, DePaul Catholic DE One of the state’s most unblockable defensive forces finished off a senior season with some eye-popping numbers. Price compiled 35.5 tackles for loss and 14.5 sacks for the 9-3 Spartans in 2021. He led the way for a defense that didn’t allow a touchdown for a five-game stretch in the beginning of the season and who eventually made it to the Non-Public B title game. Price flipped commitments from Syracuse to Rutgers after emerging as one of New Jersey’s top edge defender talents during the 2021 season. JSZ’s Jay Cook has the profile:

Meet the 2021 JSZ All-Zone Basketball Teams
JSZ honored the top players in New Jersey from both girls and boys varsity basketball. Our week-long celebration of the 2021 season concluded with the presentation of JSZ’s Mr. and Miss Hoop Zone won by Camden’s DJ Wagner and Manchester Township’s Destiny Adams. Watch highlight videos of every one of our honorees across the state. Camden’s D.J. Wagner has been named Jersey Sports Zone’s Mr. Hoop Zone for 2021. The award is based on balloting from coaches and media from all over the state. JSZ’s Mike Frankel profiles Wagner’s remarkably fast rise to the top of the New Jersey high school hoops scene. JSZ Mr. Hoop Zone Balloting Thanks to the coaches and statewide media who casted their vote for JSZ’s Mr. Hoop Zone. Three points for a first place vote, two points for a second, and one point for third. Coaches: Don DeLeo, Hightstown, Matt Bloom, Rutgers Prep, Dave Boff, Roselle Catholic, Justin Salton, Watchung Hills, James Cranwell, Middletown South, Randy Holmes, Jackson Memorial, Ben DiBiase, Freehold Boro, Andrew Bilodeau, Manasquan, Mike Clemente, Central Regional, Cameron Bell, Egg Harbor Township, Gene Allen, Atlantic City, Richard Bolds, Timber Creek, Michael Nausedas, Marlboro, Michael Doherty, St. Joe-Montvale, Eric Cassidy, Cherokee, Paul Rodio, St. Augustine, Dennis Caruano, Raritan, Nicholas Famularo, Asbury Park, Billy Armstrong, Bergen Catholic, Kris Grundy, Montgomery, Anthony Tavares, Newark East Side, Chris Chavannes, Patrick School, Mike Puorro, Barnegat, Matt Talbot, Roselle Park, Liam James, Gloucester, Ben Gamble, Bayonne, Todd Powers, Gloucester Catholic, Alex Mirabel, St. Peter’s Prep, Anthony Drejaj, Linden, Julius David, Perth Amboy, John Rosser, Overbrook, Paddy McNamara, Haddon Township, Chris Garcia, JP Stevens, Phil Collicchio, Elizabeth, Chris Raba, Nottingham Media: Sean Miller, NJ Advance Media, John Jones, MaxPreps, Kevin Minnick, NJ Advance Media, Tom Williams, Prime Events, Mike McGarry, Press of Atlantic City, Brandon Gould, NJ Advance Media, Adam Zagoria, ZagsBlog.com, Jay Gomes, NJHoops.com, Dave’s Joint, Mike Kinney, NJ Advance Media, Kyle Franco, Trentonian, Greg Johnson, Trentonian, Greg Machos, GMC Hoops, JSZ Staff The New Jersey high school basketball community made the most of a shortened 2021 high school basketball season. Even though there was a maximum of 15 games and no state playoffs, it didn’t stop great players from around the state to shine and make the most of their limited opportunities. Click on each player’s name to watch their JSZ highlight reel and congratulations to all of the players who made this year’s JSZ All-Zone team: It’s official, Destiny Adams of Manchester Township is Jersey Sports Zone’s Miss Hoop Zone for 2021. Winning McDonald’s All American honors, 6’3 Adams takes home the award based on balloting from statewide coaches and media after averaging 30 points and 18.7 this season. With just 15 games on the schedule, she scored 450 points to end her career with 2,010 points. JSZ’s Nery Rodriguez sat down with the University of North Carolina-bound Senior. JSZ Miss Hoop Zone Balloting Thanks to the coaches and statewide media who casted their vote for JSZ’s Mr. Hoop Zone. Three points for a first place vote, two points for a second, and one point for third. Coaches Rachel Goodale, Jackson Memorial, Dave Beauchemin, Manchester Twp., Bob Fusik, Trenton Catholic, Sandy Gordon, Ramapo, Mary Klinger, Rutgers Prep, Steve Silver, IHA, Alaina Hearon, Jackson Liberty, Joe Montano, Red Bank Catholic, Mary Beth Chambers, Saint Rose, Mark Gnapp, Gill St. Bernard’s, Dawn Karpell, St. John Vianney, Darren Ault, Holmdel, Theresa Cuniff, Wildwood, Scott Beston, Mainland, Steve DiPatri, Wildwood Catholic, Paul Baruffi, Ocean City, Scott Meile, Oakcrest, Lisa Stelle, Paul VI, Pete Vincent, Hudson Catholic, Meg McGeehan, Warren Hills, Derek Lynn, Montville, Billy Lovett, Morris Catholic, Shannon Coyle, Long Branch, Brandon Pilgrim, Paterson East Side, Lashawn Williams, Newark Central, Glenn Jansen, Donovan Catholic, Sandi Chera, Colonia, Sean Pekarsky, Paramus Catholic, Kristen Przbylski, Eastern, JW Senft, Highland, Dave Callahan, Rumson-Fair Haven, Allyson Scerbo, Phillipsburg, Liz McKeon, Westfield, John Considine, Bishop Eustace, Lisa Kukoda, Manasquan, Justin McGhee, Middletown North, John Barbarise, Shore Regional, Jenna Marcus, Hightstown, Chris Hernandez, Weehawken, James Martinos, Notre Dame, Travis Retzlaff, East Brunswick, Audrey Taylor, Franklin, Brad Allen, Teaneck, Janet Cook, Sayreville, Dan Montferatt, Ewing, Matt Margon, Montgomery, Lauren Bowler, Matawan Media Sean Miller, NJ Advance Media, John Jones, MaxPreps, Greg Machos, GMC Hoops, Mike McGarry, Press of Atlantic City, Tom Williams, Prime Events, Brian Deakyne, NJ Advance Media, Kyle Franco, Trentonian, Greg Johnson, Trentonian, Luis Torres, NJ Advance Media, Joe Fenelon, NYG Hoops, G Thing Basketball, Prep Girls Hoops New Jersey, JSZ Staff PUBLIC NON-PUBLIC Name SchoolName SchoolMr. HZ Finalists Antoine ArnettSterlingDenver AnglinGill St. Bernard'sCorey Floyd, Jr., Roselle Catholic Gannon BradyOcean CityMark ArmstrongSt. Peter's PrepSamson Johnson, Patrick School Jerome BrewerCamdenJayden BrownMontclair ImmaculateWill Richardson, Bergen Catholic Tazir CanteyEasternJulian BrownBergen CatholicBen Roy, Manasquan Christian CevisWest MorrisZion CruzPatrick SchoolDJ Wagner, Camden Jack CollinsManasquanMatt DelaneySt. Augustine Prep Al-Fatir ConnorElizabethRay FordSt. Peter's Prep Jordan DerkackColoniaNoah HarrisRutgers Prep Austin GreenTimber CreekIsaac HesterRanney Aidan KehoePascack HillsZach HicksCamden Catholic Elijah LewisWatchung HillsTristan JeffriesSt. Thomas Aquinas Carlos LopezEgg Harbor Twp.Amare MarshallRoselle Catholic Chad MartiniWatchung HillsKeith Mency Hudson Catholic Diante MilesWildwoodMarcus PierceSt. Joseph Academy Dave OlaniyiNewark East SideElijah PerkinsRanney Chris RubayoMontgomeryJosh RiveraSt. Thomas Aquinas Derek SimpsonLenapeWisler SanonPaul VI Jack SeidlerMarlboroAkil Watson Don Bosco Prep Jon SpatolaMarlboroSimeon WilcherRoselle Catholic TaQuan WoodleyCamdenZakai ZeiglerMontclair Immaculate PUBLIC NON-PUBLIC Name SchoolName SchoolMiss HZ Finalists Lauren AchterRamapoAbby AntognoliSaint RoseDestiny Adams, Manchester Township Nina BranchizioMonroeA'Nyah BarkerIHAZoe Brooks, Trenton Catholic Amaya BurchTimber CreekEmma BruenSt. John VianneyKatie Hill, St. John Vianney Kiley CapstrawWest OrangeMeg CahalanSt. John VianneyMadison St. Rose, St. John Vianney Rachel CapuaJackson MemorialSaniah CaldwellSaddle River DayAlexa Therien, Cherokee Julia CorsentinoRumson-Fair HavenAlly CarmanRed Bank Catholic Alexis DavisGlassboroChristina DalceRutgers Prep Mary Elizabeth DonnellyManasquanAaylah Del RosarioTrenton Catholic Keegan DouglasHaddonfieldElla FajardoGill St. Bernard's Kate HerlihyMiddle Twp.Hannah HidalgoPaul VI Brooke HollawellManasquanZanai JonesHudson Catholic Tara JohnsonUniversityMarianna PapazoglouWildwood Catholic Lexi Linton Jackson MemorialPaulina ParisSaddle River Day Brynn McCurrySpartaBelle PellecchiaRutgers Prep Colleen McQuillenCresskillJustine PissottRed Bank Catholic Grace MuntRumson-Fair HavenAlana RobinsonPope John Madison SchillerRamapoSophia SabinoRed Bank Catholic Ally SweeneySpartaAngelica VelezTrenton Catholic Chloe TeterRed Bank RegionalCaileigh WalshGill St. Bernard's Bella VitoMontvilleMia YanogacioRutgers Prep JSZ All-Zone Basketball Coverage Monday, March 15: JSZ All-Zone Girls Public Team (20 players) Tuesday, March 16: JSZ All-Zone Girls Non-Public Team (20 players) Wednesday, March 17: JSZ All-Zone Boys Public Team (20 players) Thursday, March 18: JSZ All-Zone Boys Non-Public Team (20 players) Friday, March 19: JSZ 2021 Mr. and Miss Hoop Zone announced

Meet the 2021 JSZ All-Zone Hockey Team
Jersey Sports Zone honors the top high school hockey players in New Jersey. We have selected the top players in the Garden State – check out all the highlight videos from a great 2021 season. JSZ’s All-Zone Hockey Team It might have been a shortened season, but New Jersey high school hockey delivered plenty of exciting moments and stellar play across the state. Jersey Sports Zone is proud to announce its 2021 All-Zone hockey team honoring the best players in the state. Click on each players name below to watch their highlight reel. GoaliesDefensemanForwardsForwardsPlayer of the Year Mack Alvino, Glen Rock Kareem Al-Azem, Morristown-BeardAntonio Arcaroli, Bergen CatholicMatteo Mancheno, WestfieldConnor Sedlak, Don Bosco Prep - 2021 JSZ POY Ben Kopacki, LakelandDrew Fortescue, Don Bosco PrepMichael Balzarotti, RidgeAram Minnetian, Bergen Catholic Zach McErlain, Gloucester CatholicColin Grable, CBANate Block, Middletown SouthAidan Niceberg, Madison Luke McManus, Morristown-BeardZach Johnson, Gloucester CatholicRyan Bunting, Gloucester CatholicTrip Pendy, Delbarton Lukas Klemm, Don Bosco PrepMitchell Ducalo, RobbinsvilleBrett Pritchard, Rumson-Fair Haven Griffen O'Shaughnessy, Mountain LakesAidan D'Urso, Seton Hall Prep Ryan Rodrigues, Seton Hall Prep Patrick Reilly, CBARyan Fine, Don Bosco PrepBilly Sheridan, Gloucester Catholic Connor Kaczmarek, St. Joe-MetuchenBrady Silverman, Governor Livingston Seth Kaplan, Morristown-BeardMick Thompson, Bergen Catholic Brian Kramer, Governor LivingstonZach Wagnon, CBA Ryan Kulaszewski, St. John VianneyBrendan Waivada, Seton Hall Prep Jason Kwestel, Morris Knolls Connor Sedlak Wins JSZ’s 2021 Hockey Player of the Year During a season shrouded in uncertainty, Don Bosco Prep senior Connor Sedlak put together a career year on the ice. Sedlak helped the Ironmen collect double-digit wins and the Gordon Cup championship after a Gordon Conference-best 28 points (18 G, 10 A) for the Ironmen. Sedlak, who also eclipsed 100 career points this season, was selected as the Gordon Conference MVP by the conference’s coaches. Sedlak is the third Don Bosco Prep player to win JSZ’s highest hockey award, following his older brother, Tyler Sedlak, in 2019, and Mickey Burns, in 2018. The Sedlak’s also now become the first siblings to both win a major Jersey Sports Zone end-of-year award. JSZ’s Jay Cook profiles Connor Sedlak after an unforgettable season:

Meet the 2020 JSZ All-Zone Football Team
JSZ honors a season unlike any other with our fourth annual JSZ All-Zone team. We’ve got the top players from New Jersey at every position and the announcement of our 4th Zoneman Trophy Winner The 2020 football season provided incredible memories in the midst of adversity. Despite teams losing games due to the pandemic, JSZ cameras were able to find the best of the best from New Jersey high school football. All this week, we will present the 2020 JSZ All-Zone football team. Audric Estime wins 2020 JSZ Zoneman The St. Joe-Montvale running back will always remember the day he won the Zoneman Trophy. That’s because he happened to make national headlines when he flipped his commitment from Michigan State to Notre Dame signing with the Irish shortly after accepting the JSZ Zoneman Trophy. Estime was a force topping 1800 yards and 22 ground scores in just eight games of action Watch JSZ’s Zoneman Trophy presentation and an extended interview with Audric during his signing day ceremony: Estime received 33 votes from JSZ’s 72 person voting panel of head coaches and statewide media: Thank you to the head coaches and statewide media who cast their vote for the 2020 Zoneman Coaches: Joe Wojechowski, Lenape, Sean Clancy, Notre Dame, Rich Hilliard, St. Joe-Metuchen, Joe LaSala, Woodbridge, Vin Mistretta, Jackson Memorial, Montrey Wright, Salem, Kenny Scott, Winslow, Kevin Smith, Ocean City, Pat Gallagher, Williamstown, Steve Scanlon, Clearview, Chris Sacco, Absegami, Tim Gushue, Shawnee, Pete Lancetta, St. Augustine, John Whitehead, Paramus Catholic, Vito Campanile, Bergen Catholic, John McKenna, DePaul Catholic, Dan Sabella, Don Bosco Prep, Darnell Grant, West Orange, Bill Fitzgerald, Seton Hall Prep, David Schuman, Red Bank Regional, Dan Curcione, Donovan Catholic, Jeff Rainess, Holmdel, Jim Raso, Hammonton, Rich Hansen, St. Peter’s Prep, Tony Grandinetti, Wall, Jim Sharples, Jackson Liberty, Dom Marangi, St. Joe-Montvale, Mike Lange, Red Bank Catholic, Don Klein, Ocean Township, Bryant Garvin, Newark East Side, Jason Acerra, Bayonne, Andrew Patterson, Robbinsville, Brian Bowers, Delbarton, Todd Smith, Hun, Chris Beagen, Sayreville, Dave Ellis, Freehold Boro, Al Chiola, Linden, Dallas Whitaker, Somerville, John Viotto, South Brunswick, John Emel, Penns Grove, Rob Davis, Barnegat, Brian Russo, Rahway, Lou Grasso, Union, Roger Kotlarz, Wayne Valley, Scott Bray, Bridgewater-Raritan, Kevin Kostibos, Summit, Len Zdanowicz, Brick Township Media: Rich Chrampanis, JSZ, Jay Cook, JSZ, Nery Rodriguez, JSZ, Mike Frankel, JSZ, Kenneth Bradley, JSZ, James Mooney, JSZ, Andrew Koob, NJ.com, Sean Miller, NJ.com, Mike McGarry, Press of Atlantic City, Kevin Minnick, NJ.com, Tom Williams, Prime Events, Pat Lanni, NJ.com, Ryan Patti, Rivals.com, Dave McCarthy, McCarthy Report, Shawn Brown, 247 Sports, Chris Melvin, Asbury Park Press, Todderick Hunt, NJ.com, Mike Kinney, NJ.com, Joe Zedalis, NJ.com, Bob Badders, Shore Sports Network, Chris Gallagher, News 12 NJ, Sunil Sunder Raj, Gannett, Kyle Franco, NJ.com, John Jones, Max Preps, GMC Gridron 2020 JSZ All-Zone Non-Public Offense (Click player’s name to watch their JSZ All-Zone profile!) QuarterbackRunning BackWide Receiver Tight EndOffensive LineZoneman Finalists Steve Angeli, Bergen CatholicRyan Butler, Bergen Catholic Naran Buntin, Mater Dei PrepAlex Bauman, Red Bank Catholic Chase Bisontis, Don Bosco Prep Tahj Bullock, St. Peter's Prep Andrew Butler, DePaul CatholicJahdir Loftland, Donovan Catholic Nick Dunneman, Seton Hall Prep Jack Larsen, Seton Hall PrepDominick Brogna, Bergen CatholicCookie Desiderio, Somerville Cole Freeman, DelbartonRickey "Pop" Spruill, Notre Dame Jayon Farrar, Donovan Catholic Nuccio Lisitano, DePaul CatholicCamron McNair, Donovan Catholic Audric Estime, St. Joe-Montvale Kanye Udoh, St. Augustine Prep Nasir Hill, St. Augustine Prep Justin McNulty, Holy SpiritCasey Larkin, Wall Najih Rahman, Red Bank Catholic Aidan Monteiro, St. Peter's Prep Patrick Smith, Holy Spirit Jaylan Sanchez, St. Peter's PrepGeno VanDeMark, St. Joe-Montvale 2020 JSZ All-Zone Non-Public Defense/Special Teams Defensive LineLinebackerDefensive BackKicker/Punter Dominick Giudice, Mater Dei PrepPJ Casale, Delbarton Jayden Bellamy, Bergen CatholicPatrick Ryan, Delbarton Keshon Griffin, St. Joseph Academy Timmy Hinspeter, Don Bosco Prep Jordan Campbell, St. Peter's PrepSebastien Tasko, St. Joe-Montvale Jake Louro, Red Bank Catholic Frankie Monte, St. Joe-MontvaleJaeden Gould, Bergen Catholic Qy'aeir Price, DePaul CatholicAi'Johnnie Rembert, Holy SpiritJahqir Haley, St. Joseph Academy Ethan Rodriguez, St. Peter's PrepAhmad Ross, St. Joseph AcademyJake Jarmolowich, Delbarton George Rooks, St. Peter's PrepA'Khoury Lyde, DePaul Catholic DJ Samuels, Bergen Catholic 2020 JSZ All-Zone Public Offense QuarterbackRunning BackWide ReceiverTight EndOffensive Line Joe Crifasi, BectonJaiden Abrams, HammontonJoJo Bermudez, Cedar CreekSean Clapp, RamapoMatthew Fries, Cranford Charles DePrima, RamapoAl-Jay Henderson, IrvingtonJaimen Bryant, SomervilleJordan Harris, Woodbridge Chad Martini, Watchung HillsAli Lee, Jr., WoodbridgeAlijah Clark, CamdenJustin Evans-Jenkins, Irvington Sha'Kim Shuler, Freehold BoroNasir Robinson, Penns GroveXavier Coleman, LenapeWinston Jordan, Highland Regional Demie Sumo, WillingboroTyler Davis, LenapeJoe Metzger, Delsea Will Towns, Jackson MemorialDesmond Igbinosun, UnionJoe Mancino, Holmdel Bhayshul Tuten, PaulsboroAnthony Johnson, Burlington Twp.Grant Puharic, Wall John Volker, Rumson-Fair HavenJake Schneider, Ocean CityBilly Searle, Nutley Josh Toner, Cherokee 2020 JSZ All-Zone Public Defense/Special Teams Defensive LineLinebackerDefensive BackKicker/PunterReturn Specialist Zaire Angoy, IrvingtonLeQuint Allen, MillvilleJayden Brown, Winslow Twp.Jai Patel, South BrunswickAl Shadee-Salaam, East Orange Jihaad Campbell, Timber CreekKharyi Banton, Newark West SideJalen Cheek, Winslow Twp. Donovan Ezeiruaku, WilliamstownLocksley Burke, East OrangeDarian "Duce" Chestnut, Camden Von Factor, Rumson-Fair HavenLuke Cole, LenapeBrody Colbert, Williamstown Luke Doerr-Fredrickson, West MorrisMikai Gbayor, IrvingtonLee Coleman, Salem Mike Jarvis, ShawneeJake Inserra, Ocean CityShaquan Loyal, Newark West Side AJ Pena, SomervilleEmeril Mitchell, Winslow Twp.Dorian Rawls, West Orange Jordan Thompson, Parsippany HillsCharlie Sasso, WallRyan Ruane, Rumson-Fair Haven John Testa, Wayne ValleyKeon Sabb, Williamstown Corey Walker, Newark West Side Meet the 2020 Zoneman Finalists Tahj Bullock, St. Peter’s Prep QB Before ever taking a snap at St. Peter’s Prep, fans and coaches on the St. Peter’s Prep stands and sidelines buzzed about a kid nicknamed “Ducee” who would take New Jersey by storm. Now Tahj Bullock’s illustrious high school career is over – and he’ll be discussed as one of the most impactful player to ever play for the Marauders. Bullock, a Virginia Tech commit, flashed in the six games St. Peter’s Prep played in this season. He completed 51 percent of his passes for 818 yards and a touchdown to interception ratio of 12:0. Ducee also accounted for 306 yards and six more touchdowns on the ground, bringing his career touchdown total to an impeccable 52 scores. JSZ’s Jay Cook has the story on Bullock Cookie Desiderio, Somerville RB Players like Cookie Desiderio don’t come around very often – and the numbers he produced in 2020 were just as unique. The Somerville bruiser exceeded every and all exception in this wild season with 1,569 rushing yards and 26 touchdowns on only 152 carries. That comes out to 10.3 yards every single time Desiderio took a handoff. You know what makes those numbers so impressive? It’s the fact that Desiderio did it in only seven games and that he surpassed every single benchmark he previously set in his junior season. Desiderio becomes the second player in Somerville history to be nominated for the award (Jalahn Dabney, 2018.) The recognition is well-deserved. JSZ’s Nery Rodriguez has the feature: Audric Estime, St. Joe’s (Mont.) RB Audric Estime put in an offseason for the ages to deliver one of the most dominant single season efforts anyone has ever seen in North Jersey. While playing in arguably one of the toughest divisions in the entire country, the St. Joe’s (Mont.) product ran roughshod over the competition for 190 carries, 1,857 yards and 22 touchdowns. All of those were career highs in only eight games played. The Michigan State commit was also the only player in the state to account for 2,000 scrimmage yards and finished 2020 with a total 2,042 yards and 24 touchdowns. The Big 10 better be ready for what’s coming. JSZ’s Jay Cook has the story: Casey Larkin, Wall ATH Both the soul and heartbeat of Wall’s undefeated 2020 team is, without question, Casey Larkin. A starter on both sides of the ball for the Crimson Knights, Larkin shined in every game he played. At running back, he rushed for 870 yards and 13 touchdowns on only 97 carries. At defensive back, Larkin anchored the Crimson Knights defense with 32 tackles, five pass defenses and a fumble recovery. Wall won the unofficial Shore Conference championship this season and finished the year 7-0. Larkin delivered two standout performances in the semifinal and finals. Some in New Jersey consider Wall to be the state’s top-ranked team – if they indeed are, then Larkin had a major say in that decision. JSZ’s Rich Chrampanis has the story: Patrick “Cheeks” Smith, Holy Spirit RB If you ask any high school football fanatic in South Jersey who the area’s top player was this season, the answer would be short and quick: Cheeks. Patrick Smith, the Holy Spirit standout, was an absolute force to be reckoned with every time the rock was in his hands. Smith concluded an unforgettable 2020 campaign with 1,719 rushing yards and 16 touchdowns on a workhorse-like 221 carries this season. Holy Spirit ended the season at 8-0 after becoming the unofficial South Jersey champions with a 21-7 win over Lenape in the WJFL Bracket A Final. Smith’s incredible top-end speed and vision helped drive the Spartans to the upper echelon on New Jersey high school football in a crazy season. JSZ’s Mike Frankel has the feature: JSZ Plays of the Year The JSZ Football Plays of the Year will wrap up on December 21st with the six winners of each category vying for the top overall play of the year. We’ll interview the winner on December 23rd! Special Teams TD of the Year: Monday, Dec. 7th through Wednesday, Dec. 9th.TD Pass Play of the Year: Thursday, Dec. 10th through Saturday, Dec. 12th.Defensive TD of the Year: Sunday, Dec. 13th through Tuesday, Dec. 15th.TD Run of the Year: Wednesday, Dec. 16th through Friday. Dec. 18th.Sack of the Year: Saturday, Dec. 19th through Monday, Dec. 21st.2020 Overall Play of the Year (6 Plays of the Year winners): Monday, Dec. 21st through Wednesday, Dec. 23rd
Feature Stories

From Defeat to Triumph: Abigail Dennis Goes Viral for Remarkable Comeback
Every so often, New Jersey high school athletes make headlines for their remarkable feats. What Old Tappan’s Abigail Dennis did last week ended up going way beyond that. In the 100 meter hurdle heat at the Bergen County Championships, she fell hard after tripping over a hurdle and essentially began the race in last place. But Dennis wouldn’t accept that – she rallied to come from behind and win the heat in a moment that truly went viral across the world. Just days after, that video of her remarkable feat was seen over a million times on Old Tappan’s track and field Twitter account and got countless more views on various news and social media channels across the world. JSZ’s Jay Cook profiles Abigail Dennis and what makes this affable athlete tick: This story was featured on JSZ-TV’s weekly TV program, which aired on Sunday, May 22 on WLNY-TV.

Schild Continues to Deliver for State Champ Middletown South
Ben Schild continues to have a sensational high school career. Watch our feature from JSZ-TV on the Middletown South ace who has a county championship along with his state title from 2021 Middletown South pitcher Ben Schild was on the mound when the Eagles won the 2021 Group 4 state championship. His complete game 2-hitter against Montclair was the exclamation point on an 8-0 sophomore campaign. His junior season is on course for a similar track. Schild is currently 5-0 with a 1.28 ERA striking out 69 and walking just 15. Schild was on the hill when he struck out 11 in Middletown South’s 11-1 win over Wall in the Monmouth County Tournament finals at Brookdale Community College. The Eagles will now turn their attention to defending their Group 4 state title. JSZ’s Rich Chrampanis profile Schild on Jersey Sports Zone TV, which airs Sundays at 11:30 am on WLNY-TV (10/55):

A Major Milestone for Donovan Catholic’s Schwartz
Debbie Schwartz has turned Donovan Catholic into a New Jersey softball powerhouse program in the last several seasons. The Griffins are the favorite to claim a third consecutive Tournament of Champions title next month. This week, Schwartz became the first woman to reach 700 career wins in NJ softball history. JSZ’s Mike Frankel was on hand for the milestone, and has the story: JSZ’s softball coverage is brought to you in part by OceanFirst Bank.

The “Marquis” Element: How Koleton Marquis’ Native Roots Have Shaped NJ’s Top Team
When you watch Koleton Marquis play the game he loves, it’s almost like it’s in his blood or a part of his DNA. The fact is, that’s not too far from the truth. Marquis is from the Kahnawake native reserve in Quebec, Canada. He came to Don Bosco Prep to play high school lacrosse and made memories immediately as a freshman. He’s since blossomed into one of the best players in New Jersey and one of the more dynamic players in the entire country. Don Bosco head coach Brendan Gorman said the Ironmen adopted Marquis’ Iroquois roots and heritage into their No. 1 state ranked program. By the way the last two seasons have progressed, it certainly seems like it’s worked out for the best. JSZ’s Jay Cook has the profile:

Benjamin Shue Rewriting Records in Breakout Freshman Season
It only took a matter of weeks for Bergen Catholic’s Benjamin Shue to break records. The budding, young star for the Crusaders is one of New Jersey’s top performers so far this spring track and field season. Shue broke the national discus throw record for a freshman last month and followed it up with a jaw-dropping performance at the illustrious Penn Relays. What makes this three-sport athlete tick? JSZ’s Jay Cook has the story:

A Dream Come True: Seahawks Draft Melton
Bo Melton dazzled on the football field for Cedar Creek, before going on to star at Rutgers University. Now Melton’s football dreams are coming true, as he’s heading to the NFL. The Seattle Seahawks selected Melton in the 7th round of the 2022 NFL Draft on Saturday. Melton and his family waited several hours to hear his name called, and the emotions overflowed as the phone call came in from Seattle. JSZ’s Mike Frankel has the story:
Recruiting

Five-Star Naas Cunningham Leaves HS Ranks, Heads to Overtime Elite Pro League
After two impressive years at Gill St. Bernard’s, five-star Naas Cunningham is leaving the high school ranks to play in the Overtime Elite professional basketball league. Cunningham, the No. 1 nationally ranked player in the Class of 2024, is set to be the first player in the league to bypass a salary while maintaining his college eligibility. The news was first reported by ESPN this morning. Watch Highlights Naas Cunningham’s Sophomore Season “This is best place for me to develop as a player, while getting the right education to fall back on at the same time,” Cunningham told ESPN’s Jonathon Givony. “Overtime built a relationship with my family and I, which was a big factor in trusting them with my future. I want to be the best basketball player I can, a NBA draft lottery pick and hopefully one of the best in the league. Overtime is going to put me in position to become the best player I can.” This move is a first-of-its-kind for high school players. Since Overtime Elite began in 2021, players in the league were taking six-figure salaries and forgoing any college eligibility to play professional basketball with players their age. But, Cunningham will be able to complete his high school education while having no negative impact on his eligibility to play college basketball when that time arrives. He holds over a dozen offers from the elite college hoops programs in the country. Cunningham had a productive sophomore season with Gill St. Bernard’s, who went 20-7 and won the Somerset County Tournament. The 6-7 wing averaged 13.8 points and 6.8 rebounds per game and was named to JSZ’s All-Zone team.

GSB’s Mackenzie Mgbako Commits to Duke
The Gill St. Bernard’s junior makes his pledge to play for new head coach Jon Scheyer and the Blue Devils. Check out his stellar JSZ highlight reel NOW! Mackenzie Mgbako is a five-star recruit and one of the best prospects in the class of 2023. The six-foot-seven wing forward has given a verbal commitment to play for Jon Scheyer and the Duke Blue Devils. Mgbako made the announcement prior to playing in the Nike Hoop Summit in Portland, Oregon where the native of Nigeria is playing with the World All-Stars. Mgbako chose Duke over Kentucky, Memphis, and Ohio State. Scheyer is taking over the reins of the Duke program following the retirement of Mike Krzyzewski following Duke’s run to the Final Four in the 2022 NCAA Tournament. Mgbako was outstanding in his junior season at Gill St. Bernard’s averaging 19.5 points, 10.6 points and 2.9 assists helping GSB win the Somerset County championship and a 20-7 record playing an elite schedule both in and out of New Jersey. Mackenzie was one of five finalists for JSZ’s Mister Hoop Zone award which went to Camden’s DJ Wagner. Check out Mgbako’s outstanding highlight reel from his junior season:

National Signing Day 2022: JSZ Coverage
Today is the biggest day of the year for high school athletes going to play at the next level. JSZ has statewide coverage from National Signing Day as some of the top football players put pen to paper and sign their National Letters of Intent. East Orange Caps Off Historic Season With Three Signees The 2021 season at East Orange will be talked about for years to come. A perfect 13-0 season, a pair of trophies and a number of top-notch players highlighted a year for the record books. The Jaguars put their memorable season to bed on Wednesday as three seniors signed National Letters of Intent. Kyle Louis signed with the University of Pittsburgh, Ahmad Nalls inked with Kent State and Dieunerst Collin made it official with D-II Lake Eerie College. Their senior leadership and the examples they set may have changed East Orange football for years to come. JSZ’s Jay Cook has the story from Essex County: RBC’s Alex Bauman Signs with Tulane One of New Jersey’s premier two-way players, Bauman brings a versatile skill set to the American Athletic Conference. Bauman was a JSZ All-Zone Non-Public selection on the defensive line but will be suiting up as a tight end when he arrives on campus in New Orleans. He collected 26 catches for 432 yards and six touchdowns for RBC’s high octane offense and made 79 tackles with eight sacks, 16 tackles for loss, 18 hurries, and two fumble recoveries as the leader of the Caseys’ defense. Watch his JSZ senior year highlight reel now! Notre Dame’s Jenkins Signs with Tennessee The 6’6 260 DL chose the Vols over Florida, Virginia, Mizzou and West Virginia. The Notre Dame senior elevated himself to a three-star recruit and was named to JSZ’s All-Zone team. Check out his profile below: Army West Point Lands Jack Latore Once again, Middletown South’s football program produces another Division One-level talent. The 6-5, 240 pound defensive lineman wreaked havoc in opposing backfields all season long and that high level of play earned him an offer to play at Army West Point. The Black Knights land a player who’s potential continues to improve. He notched 89 tackles, 25 tackles for loss and 5.5 sacks for the 9-2 Eagles this season. Watch his JSZ senior year highlight reel now! Kanye Udoh Signs with Army The Black Knights landed another Garden State gem on Wednesday, as St. Augustine’s Kanye Udoh made his college decision. The St. Augustine standout was one of the state’s top running backs in 2021, finishing with 1,500 yards and 16 touchdowns. Udoh helped lead the Hermits to a 9-2 record and a run to the Non-Public A semifinals. Watch his JSZ All-Zone Profile here: Donovan Catholic’s McNair signs with Old Dominion Donovan Catholic two-way lineman Caron McNair is on his way to Virginia after signing to play FBS football at Old Dominion. McNair was a 2021 JSZ All-Zone selection: A Pair of SPP Marauders Sign with Holy Cross Holy Cross has established a successful recruiting pipeline in New Jersey for years. Now, the Crusaders have made an impact this cycle at St. Peter’s Prep. Avery Powell and Sam Slade – both JSZ All-Zone Non-Public selections – signed their National Letters of Intent Tuesday with the Crusaders. Powell is a physical defensive back who loves to tackle, make a big hit and then drop back into coverage and make quarterbacks pay. He made 67 tackles, had 11 pass breakups and one interception as the leader of the Marauders’ defensive backfield in 2021. A tenacious runner with the ability to fly by defenders made Sam Slade one of North Jersey’s most dangerous tailbacks. The 5-10, 190 pound tailback was the only player on St. Peter’s Prep’s offense to eclipse 1,000 scrimmage yards during the 2021 season. Watch both of their JSZ senior season highlight reels now! Seton Hall Prep’s Thomason Inks with New Hampshire Congratulations to Seton Hall Prep running back Myles Thomason for signing a national letter of intent to play Division I FCS football at the University of New Hampshire. Thomason eclipsed 1,000 all-purpose yards and had 13 touchdowns for the Pirates. Watch his 2021 JSZ All-Zone Profile below: Signings Around The State It’s official!!! @CianCurylo is off to the Thundering herd of Marshall University!!! @BucDeck @BucDeck @RBRBBF @RBRicehockey @Bob_Badders @smfalk @Rich_Chrampanis @CoachDavis23 @sherlonapp @HerdFB pic.twitter.com/qgEyGXKuHS— RBR Athletics (@rbrathletics) February 2, 2022 Congratulations Rajahn Cooper Merrimack College, Alex Bauman Tulane Univ, and Ryan McPherson Assumption College signing a NLI to continue their football careers pic.twitter.com/2hD08O4goj— CaseysSports (@CaseysSports) February 2, 2022 Congratulations @SRRamsfootball Jaiden Brown on his commitment to @HoyasFB pictured with his parents, Coach Larson, Coach Sharkey & HFC Donohue Sr. #RamPride🐏🏛🏈🇺🇲 #HoyaSaxa @coachsgarlata @HoyasFB pic.twitter.com/GY7I3c59j0— Chuck Donohue Jr. (@DonohueJr) February 2, 2022 COMMITMENT DAY! FOLLOW FOR UPDATES THROUGHOUT THE DAY pic.twitter.com/Hx5vEOE006— SJR Football (@SJRFB) February 2, 2022 Congratulations to Cole Kozlowski on his commitment to play Football for the Colgate Raiders! pic.twitter.com/u4bRuejZS1— Manasquan Athletics (@SquanAthletics) February 2, 2022 Congrats to the kid @dj_thomson4 on making his commitment to @ESU_Football ! Proud of you ! @Bryanthomson18 @Alex_Thomson3 @FBKeyport @Keyport_B_Bball pic.twitter.com/UKZW8pAiUZ— JMaguireKPSD (@jmaguireKPSD) February 2, 2022 Congratulations & Best of Luck, AJ Ayman Elhossiani & Family on signing his NIL to continue his Football Career at Shippensburg U! @ShipFootball @ShipURaiders @WhsBarronsFB pic.twitter.com/loYKp9tyWs— WHS Athletics (@BarronsSports) February 2, 2022 Demarest Signing day. We had a total of 16 student-athletes commit to compete at the collegiate level next year. Good luck to all our senior athletes. Go Norsemen! @NJScom @BigNorthConBNC @VarsityAces pic.twitter.com/uzxC2S9E5X— NV-Demarest Athletics Official Site (@DemarestNv) February 2, 2022 Official!!!!! @CoachDeLoach11 @Red_Zone75 @KUBearsFootball pic.twitter.com/8ai9Bs8PcA— Ahmad Dixon (@ahmadixon03) February 2, 2022

NJ Football Stars Make it Official; JSZ 2021 Signing Day Coverage
Wednesday marks the start of the early signing period for HS seniors to sign their national letters of intent. JSZ has coverage from Irvington, plus updates from around the Garden State! Justin Evans-Jenkins Commits to Nebraska! With the way college recruiting goes nowadays, there are hardly any surprises left on Early Signing Day. However, that wasn’t the case in Irvington as two-way powerhouse Justin Evans-Jenkins made noise on Wednesday by announcing his commitment to the University of Nebraska. Evans-Jenkins was the leader for Irvington on and off the field during the championship season. He was a stalwart on the offensive and defensive lines, and is set be the first student in Irvington history to ever graduate high school early. JSZ’s Jay Cook has the story on Nebraska’s newest offensive line recruit: Denis Jaquez | St. Augustine | Syracuse Another future star from Jersey is headed to the 3️⃣1️⃣5️⃣.Welcome to your city, @jaquez_denis pic.twitter.com/HTQgij6FIA— Syracuse Football (@CuseFootball) December 15, 2021 Steve Angeli | Bergen Catholic | Notre Dame From Bergen Catholic High School to Notre Dame, here comes 𝗦𝗧𝗘𝗩𝗘 𝗔𝗡𝗚𝗘𝗟𝗜@SteveAngeli_125 | #IrishRising22 pic.twitter.com/XiY4SGdwK9— Notre Dame Football (@NDFootball) December 15, 2021 Devin Kargman | Woodrow Wilson | Kent State Keeping the QB tradition strong with this gunslinger from Jersey!💪 @DevinKargman#AlphaSquad22🐺 | #FlashFAST⚡️| #BeTheAlpha🦅 pic.twitter.com/42lAcCNyLs— Kent State Football (@KentStFootball) December 15, 2021 Q’Yaeir Price | DePaul Catholic | Rutgers The Big North ➡️ RUWelcome, @QyaeirPriceDp pic.twitter.com/ZR4PCotyc3— Rutgers Football (@RFootball) December 15, 2021 JoJo Bermudez | Cedar Creek | Cincinnati 🚨 🆂🅸🅶🅽🅴🅳 🚨JoJo Bermudez // @jojobermudez3▪️ Wide Receiver▪️ Egg Harbor City, NJ#Bearcats | #CinCityPride22 pic.twitter.com/e1im0D5mTC— Cincinnati Football (@GoBearcatsFB) December 15, 2021 LeQuint Allen | Millville | Syracuse The Gatorade Player of the Year from Jersey is officially h🍊me.Welcome to 'Cuse, @jrlequint pic.twitter.com/Do16bosDLg— Syracuse Football (@CuseFootball) December 15, 2021 Jacob Allen | The Hun School | Rutgers Jersey Tough 🪓 Welcome to the F.A.M.I.L.Y. Jacob‼️@JacobAllen_79 | #CHOP pic.twitter.com/7X3uSdFiqp— Rutgers Football (@RFootball) December 15, 2021 Jayden Bellamy | Bergen Catholic | Notre Dame From Bergen Catholic High School to Notre Dame, here comes 𝗝𝗔𝗬𝗗𝗘𝗡 𝗕𝗘𝗟𝗟𝗔𝗠𝗬@jaydenknows_ | #IrishRising22 pic.twitter.com/CO9Jc0b0zJ— Notre Dame Football (@NDFootball) December 15, 2021 Donovan Leary | Timber Creek | Illinois .@D_leary2, the No. 9 player in New Jersey is on his way. #Illini x #famILLy pic.twitter.com/TTlDSycZbV— Illinois Football (@IlliniFootball) December 15, 2021 Kenny Fletcher | Delran | Rutgers The best in NJ stay in NJ, as #Rutgers inks 4️⃣🌟 South Jersey DE Kenny Fletcher.@KennyFletcher20 | @CoachLucas74 | @DelranAthletics 🔗: https://t.co/UILupF54Jo pic.twitter.com/GLEyzqpSuw— Rutgers Scarlet Knights | TheKnightReport.Net (@RutgersRivals) December 15, 2021 Jaeden Gould | Bergen Catholic | Nebraska Roll the tape.@jaedengould5#GBRXXII pic.twitter.com/BDuUBe29ke— Nebraska Football (@HuskerFBNation) December 15, 2021 Turner Inge | Williamstown | Villanova Welcome to #NovaNation, @TurnerInge5‼️#TapTheRock #GoNova✌️ pic.twitter.com/JgveE89l5X— Villanova Football (@NovaFootball) December 15, 2021 Gavin Kennedy | St. Augustine | Bucknell Pork Roll 🐷 and Pancakes 🥞OL Gavin Kennedy (@gkennedy_72) is the #NextToBeHerd!#NSD22 | #rayBucknell pic.twitter.com/34nbIEk5nA— Bucknell Football (@Bucknell_FB) December 15, 2021 Charlie Sasso, Wall and Damir McCrary, Woodrow Wilson | Monmouth Continuing the trend of New Jersey standouts on the defensive side of the ball, up next is @MccraryDamir – the South Jersey Defensive Player of the Year WelcoⓂ️me to the nest! pic.twitter.com/9dHYZkxBUN— Monmouth Football (@MUHawksFB) December 15, 2021 Jaden Wimberly | St. Joe’s (Mont.) | Lehigh Welcome to the #AirShow! @wimberly_jaden is a playmaker!! Welcome to the family! #2FLY2GETHER #BeGreat pic.twitter.com/VU7Q6RcmZM— Lehigh Football (@LehighFootball) December 15, 2021

Bergen Catholic Star Jaeden Gould Picks Nebraska!
The world of college football recruiting can be harsh sometimes, and Jaeden Gould can say he knows that all too well. Gould, a four-star defensive back from Bergen Catholic, was committed to the University of Southern California. After the Trojans changed coaching staffs and brought in Lincoln Reilly to lead the program, Gould rescinded his committment. That led to a two-week gauntlet of being recruited again and that search ended with Gould committing to the University of Nebraska on the eve of Early Signing Day. Gould made switch from cornerback to safety for his senior year and ended the season with a career high four interceptions. He was a leader on a tenacious Crusaders team that went 12-0 season and won the Non-Public A State Championship. The 6’2, 190 pound defensive standout is now Lincoln-bound and joins a Cornhusker team with former NJ stars like Mikai Gbayor (Irvington) and Rahmir Johnson (Bergen Catholic) on the roster. Check out his senior season highlight reel below!

Five-Star Simeon Wilcher Commits to UNC!
One of the elite, ascending players in the New Jersey high school basketball world didn’t wasted any time in announcing his future home. Class of 2023 Roselle Catholic guard Simeon Wilcher gave a verbal commitment to the University of North Carolina on Friday night after an official visit last week. 10000% COMMITTED ! 🐏WASSUP TAR HEEL NATION! @UNC_Basketball pic.twitter.com/ADVelhC43w— Simeon Wilcher (@SimeonWilcher) October 16, 2021 In two seasons at Roselle Catholic, Wilcher blossomed into one of the top players in all of America. Every major scouting and recruiting service has Wilcher ranked as a five-star player and ESPN currently has him at No. 12 overall in the Class of 2023. Wilcher – a native of nearby Plainfield, New Jersey – was a Jersey Sports Zone Non-Public All-Zone team selection as a sophomore after averaging 12.3 points per game for the 12-3 Lions. His best performance came on January 25 when he recorded a 25 point, 11 rebound, 10 assist triple-double in a 101-75 win over St. Joseph (Met.). The 6-3, 175 pound point guard flashed some serious skill last season. He has range for the three-pointer and is athletic and strong enough to drive the lane, initiate contact and score in the paint. Wilcher played alongside current University of Connecticut guard Corey Floyd, Jr. at Roselle Catholic last season. Wilcher is the first 2023 player to commit to UNC and first year head coach Hubert Davis, who replaces legendary coach Roy Williams. Wilcher is also the first of New Jersey’s elite 2023 class to come off the board, too. The others are No. 1 ranked D.J. Wagner (Camden), No. 5 Mackenzie Mgbako (Gill St. Bernard’s), No. 20 Akil Watson (Roselle Catholic) and No. 22 Ahmad Bradshaw (Camden). Those rankings are courtesy of ESPN. Simeon Wilcher is the younger brother of C.J. Wilcher, a sharpshooting guard at the University of Nebraska. Watch Simeon Wilcher’s JSZ Sophomore Highlight Reel!
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