Indian Hills High School

Not far from the birth of college football, another New Jersey football program made history of it’s own last year. Piscataway capped off a perfect 13-0 season with a win in the inaugural North Group 5 Bowl Game at MetLife stadium to capture its 10th State Title. In 2019, longtime Head Coach Dan Higgins reloads with a cast sprinkled with less varsity experience, but this year’s group of Chiefs is ready to cement their own legacy come December.  JSZ’s Nery Rodriguez stopped by training camp: Piscataway 2019 Schedule Friday, Sept. 6 — vs. Franklin Friday, Sept. 13 — vs. Sayreville Saturday, Sept. 20 — vs. Edison Friday, Sept. 27 — at New Brunswick Saturday, Oct. 5 — at St. Joe’s (Metuchen) Friday, Oct. 11 — at North Brunswick Friday, Oct. 18 — at South Brunswick Friday, Oct. 25 — at Elizabeth Friday, Nov. 1 — vs. Hillsborough

When Mike Schatzman took over the Minutemen program before last season, he was the third head coach in as many years. After laying a new foundation in 2018, Township hopes to take a big step forward this fall. Seniors Jack Dunn and Zach Andrews will anchor the line for the Minutemen. Senior RB Andrew Nocille and junior TE Jaden Allen will be two more players to watch for Washington Township. JSZ’s Mike Frankel checks in with the Minutemen: Washington Twp. Minutemen 2019 Schedule Friday, September 6th – vs. Cherokee Friday, September 13th – at Kingsway Friday, September 20th – at Atlantic City Friday, September 27th – vs. Eastern Friday, October 4th – vs. Egg Harbor Twp. Friday, October 11th – vs. Holy Spirit Friday, October 18th – at Williamstown Saturday, October 26th – vs. Vineland Friday, November 1st – at Hammonton Coverage of Washington Township is brought to you by Cooper University Health Care.

A disappointing 2-8 season left a sour taste in the mouth of Paramus Catholic’s football program. However, the Paladins are driving into 2019 with a new heir of confidence as last year’s down season fades into the rearview mirror. Led by senior offensive lineman and high D-I recruit Devin Willock — along with juniors Dorian Nowell and Jarred George — the Paladins feel confident as head coach John Whitehead builds a new culture in Paramus. JSZ’s Jay Cook previews the Paladins leading up to the 2019 season: Paramus Catholic 2019 Schedule Thursday, Aug. 29 — vs. West Catholic (P.A.) Saturday, Sept. 7 — at Pope John Friday, Sept. 20 — at Hackensack Friday, Sept. 27 — vs. Seton Hall Prep Saturday, Oct. 5 — at St. Joe’s (Mont.) Friday, Oct. 11 — at DePaul Friday, Oct. 18 — vs. St. Peter’s Prep Friday, Oct. 25 — vs. Bergen Catholic Friday, Nov. 1 — at Don Bosco Prep

The Passaic Tech Bulldogs finished their 2018 season with a 2-7 record. But this year, the team is out for blood. The offense and defense have been working hard this summer at camp. Head Coach Matt Demarest says there is a lot of competition in regards to landing a spot in the starting lineup. The talent is strong and the players are all in. JSZ’s Madison Bess has the full preview: Passaic County Tech Bulldogs 2019 Schedule Friday, Sept. 6 — at West Essex Friday, Sept. 13 — vs. Hackensack Sunday, Sept. 21 – at Seton Hall Prep Saturday, Sept. 27 – vs. Ridgewood Friday, Oct. 4 – at Clifton Friday, Oct. 10 – vs. Kennedy Friday, Oct. 18 — vs. West Orange Friday, Oct. 25 — at Wayne Hills Friday, Nov. 1 — at Eastside

The Newark Central Blue Devils are coming off of a 4-6 record from the 2018 season. They are looking to power ahead with a more balanced offense. They not only plan to be strong runners with the ball, but they are also looking to make strides with their passing. JSZ’s Madison Bess has the full preview: Newark Central 2019 Schedule Saturday, Sept. 7 — vs. Columbia Friday, Sept. 13 — vs. Cedar Grove Friday, Sept. 19 – vs. West Essex Sunday, Sept. 28 – at Nutley Friday, Oct. 4 – vs. Caldwell Saturday, Oct. 11 — at Snyder Saturday, Oct. 19 — vs. West Side Saturday, Oct. 26 — at Lincoln Saturday, Nov. 2 — vs. Imm. Concept.

Boonton made the jump from four wins to seven and a post-season win, the eighth in program history. The Bombers ground attack will be led by Corey Dempster who’s a three-year starter. Boonton will open the season on Thursday, August 29th when they host Kearny, the first official day of the 2019 campaign. Jersey Sports Zone had a chance to catch up with the Bombers during Super Football Conference Media Day: Boonton Bombers 2019 Schedule Thursday, Aug. 29 — vs. Kearny Friday, Sept. 13— at Weequahic Friday, Sept. 20 — at Verona Friday, Sept. 27 — vs. Whippany Park Friday, Oct. 4 — vs. Morris Catholic Saturday, Oct. 12 — at Kinnelon Friday, Oct. 18 — vs. Parsippany Friday, Oct. 25 — at Pequannock Friday, Nov. 1 — vs. Mountain Lakes

A spectacular finish is an understatement. Sayreville capped off an 11-1 season with a thrilling last second victory in the inaugural South Group 5 Bowl Game. The Bombers captured their fifth sectional title and became one of New Jersey’s first State Champions. Having graduated top Division I talent, Head Coach Chris Beagan will look to Seniors Mark Whitford, Anthony Jackson, Glenn Wright Jr. and two-way threat Jayvis Wayside to try and lead the beloved program back to MetLife Stadium in December.  JSZ’s Nery Rodriguez stopped by training camp: Sayreville 2019 Schedule Friday, Sept. 6 — vs. Hunterdon Central Friday, Sept. 13 — at Piscataway Saturday, Sept. 20 — vs. North Brunswick Friday, Oct. 4 — vs. Edison Saturday, Oct. 11 — vs. New Brunswick Friday, Oct. 18 — at Old Bridge Friday, Oct. 25 — at South Brunswick Friday, Nov. 1 — at Union

Pleasantville won a playoff game last season for the first time since 2003. The Greyhounds graduated several Division I athletes, but look to stay in the mix near the top of South Jersey Group 2. Senior RB Joshua Kotokpo and senior LB Ernest Howard will help lead a young but talented team this season. JSZ’s Mike Frankel checks in with the Greyhounds in Pleasantville: Pleasantville Greyhounds 2019 Schedule Friday, August 30th – vs. Salem Friday, September 6th – at Haddonfield Friday, September 20th – at Lower Cape May Friday, September 27th – vs. Gloucester Friday, October 4th – vs. Cedar Creek Friday, October 11th – vs. Gloucester Catholic Friday, October 25th – at Buena Friday, November 1st – at Middle Township Thursday, November 28th – at Ocean City

Rumson-Fair Haven won its fifth sectional title in six years and was one of the first champs in New Jersey’s new bowl series. The Bulldogs were all business on the practice fields as the focus is clearly on keeping this remarkable run going. With 96 players in training camp, Rumson has plenty of depth to replace some of the key contributors from last year’s 10-2 squad. John Volker is expected to lead the rushing attack following the departure of 1700 yard rusher Alex Maldjian. Christian Lanzalotto and Keegan Woods combined for 295 tackles last year at linebacker. Rumson will turn to a collective effort by the defense to fill that void with Ryan Ruane manning the secondary. RFH will open the season in Week 0 against Red Bank Catholic in a game that will feature two of the best in the Shore Conference. Watch JSZ’s preview of Rumson-Fair Haven now: Rumson-Fair Haven 2019 Schedule Friday, Sept. 6 — at Red Bank Catholic Friday, Sept. 13— at Wall Friday, Sept. 20 — vs. Long Branch Friday, Sept. 27 — vs. Toms River North Friday, Oct. 4 — at Manalapan Friday, Oct. 11 — vs. Mater Dei Prep Friday, Oct. 18— vs. Middletown South Friday, Nov. 1 — at Jackson Memorial

Following a first round exit in the Central Group 5 playoffs, Trenton finished 2018 with a record of 5-5. Before equipment was handed out or workouts began, the offseason saw the Tornadoes focus on internal issues such as leadership and team chemistry.  Seniors James Hubbard, a three year starter at wide receiver has made the shift to quarterback while Safety Jazzir Merricks will take on a more prominent role at the slot position. Now with a closely bonded squad Head Coach Greg Hyslop will see if he can lead the city’s beloved program to its first State Title.  JSZ’s Nery Rodriguez stopped by the state capitol for the first day of training camp: Trenton 2019 Schedule Saturday, Sept. 7 — vs. Marlboro Saturday, Sept. 14 — vs. West Windsor-Plainsboro Friday, Sept. 20 — at Rancocas Valley Saturday, Sept. 28 — at Nottingham Saturday, Oct. 5 — vs. Vineland Friday, Oct. 11 — at Allentown Saturday, Oct. 19 — vs. Eastern Saturday, Oct. 26 — at Steinert Saturday, Nov. 2 — vs. Notre Dame Thank you to Princeton Orthopaedic Associates for sponsoring our Trenton coverage!

Saint Joseph is the two-time defending Non-Public Group 2 state champion, and the Wildcats are eager to return to MetLife Stadium this season. St. Joe will also be traveling north to begin the 2019 campaign, as the Wildcats will battle Highland at Rutgers on August 31st. Senior RB Jada Byers, one of the most electric players in the state, will lead the way on offense. Junior QB Jayden Shertel and junior FB Ahmad Ross are other players to watch on offense for the Wildcats. Junior LB Tyler Paige will be taking charge on the defensive side of the ball. JSZ’s Mike Frankel checks in with St. Joseph in Hammonton: St. Joseph (Hamm.) 2019 Schedule Saturday, August 31 – vs. Highland at Rutgers Friday, September 13 – at Millville Saturday, September 21 – vs. St. Augustine Saturday, September 28 – vs. Atlantic City Friday, October 4 – at Haddonfield Saturday, October 12 – at Vineland Friday, October 18 – at West Deptford Saturday, October 26 – vs. Timber Creek Saturday, November 2 – vs. Holy Spirit

Phil Wheeler electrified JSZ highlights last winter helping Ranney to its first Tournament of Champions title. The rising senior in high school who was reported to be transferring to the Patrick School has made the decision to forgo his final season of high school to sign a professional contract to play for Stella Azzurra’s academy which is a feeder program to their pro team in Italy. By playing overseas, Wheeler will not be able to play college basketball. This story was first reported stateside by Adam Zagoria of Zags Blog and Josh Newman of the Asbury Park Press: Here’s the Instagram post from Phillip Wheeler’s agent on his plan to sign with an Italian youth team. Wheeler did not have the grades for college and they felt this was the best route for him. pic.twitter.com/Zup9wjNKJl— Adam Zagoria (@AdamZagoria) August 7, 2019 NEW: Phil Wheeler, who helped Ranney to a Tournament of Champions crown last season as a junior, has signed with an Italian club. Wild move amidst rumors of an imminent transfer. MORE COMING: https://t.co/p9XytKlcZL pic.twitter.com/YSGGJKYRgb— Josh Newman (@Joshua_Newman) August 7, 2019 Wheeler spent his first two years at Rumson-Fair Haven before joining Ranney in his junior campaign. He made his season debut on January 13 and went on to average just under 11 points a game providing an athletic burst to Ranney’s rotation matching skyscraping dunks with Bryan Antoine and Scottie Lewis. The class of 2020 recruit had picked up five Division I offers from Saint John’s, Richmond, Monmouth, Seton Hall, and Providence, but college is now off the table as Wheeler looks to make an impact in Italy with the hopes of getting an NBA opportunity down the road. Watch JSZ’s highlight reel of Phillip Wheeler’s junior season:

After a breakout junior season with a career-best 66 goals, Delbarton’s top returning goal scorer has committed to Cornell University. No. 61 junior CJ Kirst, A/M, Delbarton (N.J.) / @LeadingEDGEHS committed to @CornellLacrosse. Blowing up for 66G/28A this season, the polished lefty playmaker is a strong candidate to reach five-star status.— Ty Xanders (@tyxanders) July 24, 2019 Kirst was one of New Jersey’s most dynamic goal scorers for the entirety of 2019 — only Manasquan star and Penn State commit Canyon Birch had more goals than Kirst last year. Watch JSZ’s highlight reel of C.J. Kirst: He scored hat tricks in 12 different games and shined with a seven-goal game against Summit and his six-goal explosion against Don Bosco Prep powered the Green Wave to yet another Non-Public A state title. Kirst is far from the first New Jersey player to join Cornell University’s lax squad. He’ll join Class of 2019 Under Armour All-Americans Michael Long (Delbarton) and Aiden Blake (Haddonfield) as Garden State players on the team. Follow along with Jersey Sports Zone for all the latest updates and highlights from the top athletes in New Jersey.

Grace Costello competes for St. John Vianney’s high school gymnastics team and Head Over Heels as a Level 10 USAG gymnast. The incoming senior is committed to William and Mary’s Class of 2024 to continue her athletic and academic careers. Costello is at Head Over Heels 25 hours a week, and will start her high school practices at the end of August. Costello was the Shore Conference All-Around winner last year, and took second place on Floor in the Individual State Championships. This fall she will compete for SJV in her final year of high school gymnastics with high expectations for herself and her teammates. In order to go to college for gymnastics, it is necessary to compete for a club team. Costello and some of her other teammates compete for their high school teams for the fun as well as the team culture. JSZ’s Madison Bess has the full story from Sayreville:

Jersey Sports Zone is about capturing great video highlights. As we get ready to turn the page towards the 2019-2020 school year, we take one more look back at the top games captured by our cameras from the 2018-2019 season. We continue this series with girls lacrosse. #10 Moorestown 9 Rumson-Fair Haven 8 (OT) Monmouth University commit, Ashley Nutt, scores game-winning goal. #9 Red Bank Catholic 15 Monroe 2 Red Bank Catholic defeats Monroe in girls lacrosse season opener. #8 Oak Knoll 10 Moorestown 8 – TOC Final Katie Duttenhofer scores four goals against the Moorestown Quakers. #7 Ridgewood 14 Oak Knoll 8 University of Notre Dame commit, Jackie Wolak, finishes with three goals and one assist. #6 Rumson-Fair Haven 9 Red Bank Catholic 6 – SCT Final Rumson-Fair Haven wins their seventh straight Shore Conference Tournament. #5 Camden Catholic 9 Middle Township 8 Camden Catholic wins the Girls South Jersey Group 2 Lacrosse Semifinal. #4 Moorestown 11 Ridgewood 10 – TOC Semifinal Moorestown defeats Ridgewood, advancing to the Tournament of Champions Final. #3 Ridgewood 12 Moorestown 8 No. 2 Ridgewood defeats No. 1 Moorestown in an upset victory. Jackie Wolak finished with three goals and two assists. #2 Summit 11 Oak Knoll 10 – Union County Final Lehigh commit, Katia Carnevale, scores game-winning goal. #1 Rumson-Fair Haven 11 Red Bank Catholic 10 Chase Boyle scores the game-winning goal for Rumson-Fair Haven.

It was a great year on the ice in New Jersey. From Don Bosco’s breakthrough at the Rock to great rivalries, our year in review series continues with the ten most viewed games from New Jersey high school hockey! #10: Middletown North 3 Middletown South 3 – Mayor’s Cup For the second straight year, the Mayor’s Cup ends in a tie. The Middletown North/Middletown South ice rivalry makes another appearance in our top ten! #9: Middletown North 2 Marlboro 1 – Dowd Cup Semifinal Anything can happen in the post-season as Middletown North handed Marlboro its first loss of the season with a shocker in the Shore Conference’s Dowd Cup Semifinals: #8: Don Bosco Prep 4 Gloucester Catholic 1 – Non-Public State Semifinal Before the Ironmen won their state championship at the Rock, they needed to get past a hot goalie and a dangerous sniper from Gloucester Catholic #7: Summit 6 Chatham 2 – Public “C” State Championship Summit made it back to back state titles at the Rock with another fantastic performance on the big stage #6: Ridge 4 Randolph 1 – Public “B” State Championship Alex Konovalov showed why he was one of New Jersey’s most dangerous scorers with a three-point game at the home of the NHL Devils to give the Red Devils a state title #5: Don Bosco Prep 5 Delbarton 3 – Gordon Cup Final TJ Schweighardt’s hat trick gave the Ironmen their first big title of the season with one more on the way #4: Middletown North 5 Middletown South 3 An opening night tradition unlike any other. You’ll be hard-pressed to find a better atmosphere than the battle of Middletown to start the hockey season. Middletown Ice World is always over capacity and last November it was Chris Repmann stealing the show with a four-goal night #3: Don Bosco Prep 6 Bergen Catholic 3 The Ironmen/Crusaders rivalry extends beyond the football gridiron. Liam McLinskey got his first career hat trick in this December Gordon Cup showdown: #2: Don Bosco 3 Delbarton 1 – Non-Public State Championship The Don Bosco Prep hockey program has produced some incredible players and winning teams but was always missing that elusive state title. That all changed in 2019 when the Ironmen secured its first state championship: #1: Morris Knolls 6 Hillsborough 1 – Public “A” State Championship Sean Murray was electric at the Rock scoring four times to give golden-haired Morris Knolls a state title Devils Shoutout! The New Jersey Devils and Jersey Sports Zone teamed up for the second straight year to honor great high school hockey performances all season long. We had the top five goals of each month honored at the Rock during a Devils home game featuring a meet and greet with a player and our top 5 plays on the scoreboard during the second intermission.

Rising juniors Chase Petty and Matt Nunan play for rival schools, but the two pitchers will become teammates in August at the Area Code Underclass Games in California. The two train together at the Baseball Performance Center, which is also sending a pair of rising seniors to the Area Code Games. JSZ’s Mike Frankel has the story from Pleasantville:

New Jersey wrestling aficionados know Robert Howard as a three-time state finalist, winning an NJSIAA championship in 2018. But casual wrestling fans might not know Howard holds a U.S. wrestling record — he’s the only American wrestler to ever make three Cadet freestyle world teams. Howard placed ninth in 2017 and fell short at 13th last summer, but those finishes are long by the wayside. Robert Howard, is totally geared up to win a 55 kg (121 pound) gold medal for Team USA in Sofia, Bulgaria from July 29 to August 4. JSZ sat down with Howard and his club coach, Rich Bitetto, as he prepares for the biggest tournament of his life: Stay tuned with Jersey Sports Zone throughout the summer as we bring you behind-the-scenes feature stories and highlight reels of the top athletes in the Garden State.

Malachi Melton announced his commitment to play football at Purdue University during a ceremony at Cedar Creek High School. Melton projects as a defensive back and return specialist for the Boilermakers. He chose Purdue over other finalists Rutgers and Temple. JSZ’s Mike Frankel has the story from Egg Harbor City:

Before the Phillies squared off against Clayton Kershaw and the Dodgers, the Phils honored Burlington County for winning last month’s Carpenter Cup Classic. Recent Rancocas Valley graduate Bryce Mangene took home some extra hardware, as Mangene was named Carpenter Cup Most Valuable Player. JSZ’s Mike Frankel has the story from Citizen’s Bank Park:

One of the top recruits in the summer hoops season has made his college choice. Jabri Abdur-Rahim has made a verbal commitment to play for the University of Virginia. Abdur-Rahim chose the defending national champions over the University of Michigan. The 6-6″ forward is a four-star recruit rated as New Jersey’s top recruit and #44 in the nation according to 247 Sports. He averaged 17.7 points and 9.2 rebounds a game in his junior campaign. The Blair Academy rising senior made the announcement via his social media accounts: 100% committed #gohoos ⚔️ pic.twitter.com/REkuYPdudk— Jabri (@jabri404) July 10, 2019 Blair Academy won the Prep “A” state championship in 2018-19 with a win over Saint Benedict’s Prep in the final. Here’s JSZ’s junior highlight reel of the newest Wahoo:

After carrying the rock 156 times for 860 yards and reaching the end-zone 12 times in an eye-opening sophomore season, the Estime Express is gearing up for another championship ride from Montvale to East Rutherford. Rising sophomore running back Audric Estime exploded onto the North Jersey football scene last season and made his name known, week in and week out. Watch JSZ’s highlight reel of Audric Estime: Estime’s first varsity season coincided with St. Joe’s winning the Non-Public Group 4 state final in a 13-0 battle — Estime scored the game’s only touchdown. Since the win, his college recruitment exploded. Estime holds offers from Boston College, Nebraska, Maryland, West Virginia, Pitt and Duke, among others. Expect more offers to pour in as the year goes on. Stay tuned with Jersey Sports Zone throughout the summer as we keep you updated on all the most recent recruiting news while showing you top-notch video highlight reelsof New Jersey’s top athletes.

We saw them perform at the highest level week in and week out over the the past few months, so it wasn’t a surprise to us here at Jersey Sports Zone when eight New Jersey lacrosse players took the field Saturday night and showcased their elite talent. JSZ spent Saturday at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, Maryland covering the 2019 Under Armour All-America senior lacrosse games. Stay tuned in as JSZ brings you in-depth features and stellar highlights from our Garden State talent and beyond. Long, Birch and Blake Put on Fireworks Display New Jersey’s top three boys players took to the turf at Homewood Field and dominated. Delbarton’s Mikey Long, Manasquan’s Canyon Birch and Haddonfield’s Aiden Blake led a suffocating Jersey-centric attack that helped the North squad capture a 24-22 win. The win also marked a culmination of three stellar careers. JSZ’s Jay Cook has the story: Moorestown Trio Play Together One Last Time as All-Americans There are only 44 slots on the Under Armour All-American roster which makes it hard for a state to get more than one player. Remarkably, Moorestown High School had three players selected on the South squad. Goalie Logan Lillie (Northwestern), midfielder Kayla Frank (Virginia Tech) and defenseman Delaney Lawler (Ohio State field hockey) made their hometown proud by playing together one last time at the pinnacle of the sports. JSZ’s Rich Chrampanis has the story from Baltimore: JSZ thanks NJM Insurance for sponsoring our coverage of Moorestown High School. We were able to make the road trip to Baltimore to cover this special moment for Quakers Lacrosse thankst to the support of NJM Ridgewood Duo Reps North Jersey in Front of America After a grueling season that finished with a Group 4 state championship, things didn’t get easier for Ridgewood’s Jackie Wolak and Kara Rahaim. In fact, they suited up together one last time to represent the lacrosse-hungry North Jersey community on the big stage: 2019 Under Armour Boys Lacrosse All-America Game Mixtape JSZ brings you onto field level at Homewood Field at Johns Hopkins University with the best sights, sounds and elite plays from the 2019 all-star game: 2019 Under Armour Girls Lacrosse All-America Game Mixtape The top 44 girls in the country put on a show in Baltimore. Check out JSZ’s inside look at the future of NCAA women’s lacrosse!

The New Jersey to Penn State football pipeline is alive and well, and sure seems to be thriving when it comes to talented Garden State players all across the gridiron. James Franklin and his staff secured another premiere talent Thursday night when St. Joseph (Mont.) defensive end Amin Vanover announced on social media his verbal commitment to the Nittany Lions’ program. Committed🦁 WEARE!! pic.twitter.com/PogelmJQPb— Amin vanover (@vanover_amin) June 29, 2019 Watch JSZ’s highlight reel of Amin Vanover: Vanover is a 6-foot-4, 260 pound lineman who primarily played his junior season on the edge opposite Smith Vilbert, a Class of 2019 commit to Penn State. His recruitment skyrocketed after the Green Knights won the Non-Public Group 4 state final — Vanover fielded offers from Clemson, Alabama, Georgia, Ohio State and Texas A&M, among others. He comes into his senior season after 30 tackles, 12 tackles for a loss, eight quarterback hurries and seven sacks. Vanover is the most recent New Jersey product that Penn State head coach James Franklin has zeroed in on. Outside of Vilbert, Penn State has recently recruited Blair Academy defensive lineman Jayson Oweh, DePaul quarterback Taquan Roberson and Hun offensive lineman Caedan Wallace. Stay tuned with Jersey Sports Zone throughout the summer as we keep you updated on all the most recent recruiting news while showing you top-notch video highlight reels.

We’re only a matter of weeks away from the start of the 2019 high school football season in New Jersey, and it’s got us at Jersey Sports Zone thinking… Who is the top Class of 2020 recruit the Garden State has to offer? There’s plenty of talented players to choose from, but one certainly stands out from the rest. He’s a four-star recruit, committed to play in the 2019 All-American Bowl and calls Don Bosco Prep home. In case you didn’t guess, we’ll help you out — it’s star tailback Jalen Berger. The 6-1, 187-pound prospect heads into his senior season after hand-picking his Top 10 schools after a national recruitment. Watch Jalen Berger’s JSZ highlight reel: Berger revealed his Top 10 schools earlier this month. The list consists of (in alphabetical order) Alabama, LSU, Michigan, Ohio State, Oregon, Penn State, Pitt, Rutgers, Syracuse, and West Virginia. Top 10!! (No Order)🤝 pic.twitter.com/ql4fVsr54J— Jalen Berger (@JalenBerger) June 18, 2019 Berger will be making his college commitment announcement during the All-American Bowl on January 4, 2020. Stay tuned with Jersey Sports Zone throughout the summer as we keep you updated on all the most recent recruiting news while showing you top-notch video highlight reels.

Jim Harbaugh and his staff have enjoyed success on the recruiting trail in the Garden State and on Sunday, the University of Michigan secured verbal commitments from two New Jersey standouts from both ends of the state. The 2019 University of Michigan has seven New Jersey natives on its 2019 roster and two more are on their way to the Maize and Blue in 2020. Bergen Catholic safety Jordan Morant made his commitment to coach Harbaugh on Sunday. The nation’s top ranked safety and second overall prospect out of New Jersey made the announcement on his social media account: COMMITTED… #GoBlue〽️ pic.twitter.com/ShDXOwTI0L— Jordan Morant ❄️ (@jordanmorantt) June 23, 2019 Jersey Sports Zone has seen Morant make a huge impact on defense and special teams over the last two years at Bergen Catholic: Earlier in the day, another New Jersey standout committed to the Maize and Blue. Williamstown defensive end Aaron Lewis changed his pledge from West Virginia to Michigan: Please respect my decision. I am Happy to say I am now committed to the University of Michigan. #godbless pic.twitter.com/4lwm9jjZQL— aaron.lewis84 (@aaron_lewis71) June 23, 2019

Mike Alaimo guided the Green Knights to a state championship in 2018 as a junior. New Jersey’s top-rated quarterback recruit comes off the board as he commits to the Purdue Boilermakers. The St. Joe-Montvale Green Knights stood on top of the New Jersey football mountain after winning the 2018 Non-Public Group 4 state title in a 13-0 shutout of Bergen Catholic. Junior signal caller Mike Alaimo was the catalyst of the SJR offense and has now made his college choice. The four-star recruit ranked #1 among New Jersey QB’s has given a verbal commitment to play in the Big Ten for the Purdue Boilermakers. Alaimo was 104 of 199 for 1451 yards and 14 TD passes with just two interceptions. Alaimo made the announcement on his social media accounts: COMMITTED!🚂 #BoilerUp pic.twitter.com/SFKJTEWQaq— Mike Alaimo (@michael_alaimo) June 19, 2019 Here’s Jersey Sports Zone’s highlight reel of Mike Alaimo in action during his junior campaign:

Burlington County 3 Philadelphia Catholic 2 – Carpenter Cup Semifinal Burlington County advanced to the Phillies Carpenter Cup Classic championship game with a semifinal win at Citizens Bank Park. Moorestown’s Brian McMonagle and Shawnee’s Jackson Balzan each threw three shutout innings. Jake Prince of Cherokee hit an RBI double which proved to be the difference. Bryce Mangene of Rancocas Valley earned the save. JSZ’s Mike Frankel has the highlights and reaction from South Philadelphia:

New Jersey’s high school baseball season has been over for less than a week, but the top 100 players returning to the diamond next season got a head start on things. Diamond Nation hosted the seventh annual “Garden State Baseball Games” scouting showcase, which drew over 150 college and pro scouts to the Flemington complex for a first-hand look at the best high school players for next season. JSZ’s Jay Cook takes you into the event and highlights some of the top performers from the evening: Here are the rosters from the event, which was split up into four teams in varying regions of the state. Central Catchers Christopher Sparber, 2020, Red Bank Catholic Jedier Hernandez, 2021, Trenton Catholic Mason Wolf, 2020, Christian Brothers First Basemen Seb Mueller, 2020, St. Joseph (Met.) Jay Bant, 2021, Wall Infielders Shane Hickey, 2020, Jackson Liberty Chris O’Connor, 2020, Middletown South Max Rivas, 2020, Toms River South Phil Antoniotti, 2020, Toms River North Jordan Nitti, 2021, Steinert Jay Harry, 2020, Metuchen Walker Zampalla, 2021, Edison Outfielders Nick Callano, 2021, Ocean Twp. Danilo Perdomo, 2021, Hamilton West Jared Zimbardo, 2020, Middlesex Andrew Schmid, 2021, Rumson-Fair Haven Pitchers Nick Feretec, 2020, Notre Dame David Zamora, 2021, Hamilton West Ryan Sekman, 2021, St. John Vianney Tommy Delany, 2021, Princeton Braedin Hunt, 2020, Christian Brothers Ricky Erbeck, 2021, Hun Nick Beetel, 2020, Jackson Memorial Shane Panzini, 2021, Red Bank Catholic Adam Boucher, 2020, St. Joseph (Met.) Zach Gorman, 2021, Freehold Twp. Ben Simon, 2020, Hightstown Patrick Reilly, 2020, Christian Brothers Matt Potok, 2021, Jackson Memorial Ali Pompey, 2020, Trenton Catholic Coaches HC-CJ Hendricks, South Brunswick AC-Kevin Cust, Immaculata AC-Keith Naylor, Trenton Catholic PC-Mike Korneski, Spotswood Northwest Catchers Alex Stone, 2020, Newton Roddy Martinez, 2020, Union Kevin Reardon, 2020, Mendham Jimmy Brennan, 2021, Pope John First Basemen Andrew Bregman, 2020, Chatham Luke Chenault, 2020, Pope John Infielders Dren Gocaj, 2020, Union Josh Kuroda-Gauer, 2021, Franklin Aidan Watson, 2021, Morristown Tyler Casella, 2020, Hunterdon Central Matt Miceli, 2021, Somerville Matt Gluck, 2020, West Morris Zack Sylvester, 2020, Montville Pat Coyne, 2020, Morristown Beard Outfielders Aidan Kane, 2020, Delbarton Mike Bello, 2021, Pope John Chris Markovich, 2021, North Hunterdon Mark Darakjy, 2020, Delbarton Jayden Hylton, 2022, Ridge Pitchers Nick Fox, 2020, Hillsborough Andrew Holmes, 2021, Bernards Jack Findlay, 2021, Roxbury Zach Roskowsky, 2021, Jefferson Drew Conover, 2020, Voorhees Conor Maclachlan, 2020, Mt. Olive Pat Montfort, 2020, Morristown Gavin Stellpflug, 2020, Somerville Coaches HC-Ed Collins, Morristown AC-Pete Zoccolilo, MLB retired AC-Chris Banos, Somerville AC-Rob Kumbatovic, Hillsborough South Catchers Chris Mariani, 2020, Haddonfield Dan DiGiovannantonio, 2021, Cedar Creek Nathan Goranson, 2020, Millville First Basemen Ryan Achey, 2021, Williamstown Colby Garrison, 2020, West Deptford Infielders David Hagaman, 2021, Cedar Creek Bobby Falese, 2020, Shawnee Charlie Sanzio, 2020, Bishop Eustace Adam Aquilino, 2021, Highland Reg. Justin Szestowicki, 2021, Kingsway Greg Rossi, 2020, Washington Twp. Steven Petrosh, 2021, Holy Spirit Brody Colbert, 2021, Williamstown Outfielders Zach Bernard, 2020, Cherokee A.J. Tropiano, 2020, Paul VI Kaleb Willis, 2021, Kings Christian Alejandro Rosado, 2020, Pleasantville Kyle Neri, 2022, St. Augustine  Pitchers Chase Petty, 2021, Mainland Anthony Solometo, 2021, Gloucester Catholic Luke Vaks, 2020, Cedar Creek Robert Ready, 2020, St. Augustine Matt Nunan, 2021, Ocean City Jayden Shertel, 2021, St. Joseph (Hamm.) Julian Costa, 2021, Clearview Ryan Rumsey, 2021, Paul VI Josh Willitts, 2020, Seneca Joe Mascio, 2021, Bishop Eustace Coaches HC-Joe Smith, Williamstown AC-Rocco Cornacchia, Williamstown AC-Sean Coyle, Atlantic County Tech AC-John Scanzano, Kings Christian Northeast Catchers Brian Skettini, 2020, Ridgewood Allan Suero, 2021, Ridgefield Park Ty Gilligan, 2021, Lakeland First Basemen Sean Hard, 2021, St. Joseph (Mont.) Kevin Hogan, 2020, Nutley Infielders Raymond Ortiz, 2020, St. Peter’s Prep Ben Chrzanowski, 2020, Millburn Jimmy Kemp, 2020, Hudson Catholic Lou Fabbo, 2020, Waldwick Ernesto Polanco, 2021, Memorial (WNY) Garrett Kurtz, 2020, Mahwah Aries Samek, 2021, Teaneck Andy Antonio, 2021, Ferris Outfielders A.J. Zaccareo, 2020, Montclair Trevor Santos, 2020, Nutley Brian Baranok, 2020, Bayonne Andrew McDermott, 2020, St. Joseph (Mont.) Pitchers Nazier Mule, 2022, Passaic Tech Jacob Gomez, 2020, Rutherford Lucas Rich, 2020, Newark Academy Pierce Coppola, 2021, Verona Justin O’Connor, 2020, Bayonne Jimmy Romano, 2021, St. Joseph (Mont.) Angelo Deer, 2020, Bergen Catholic Devin Rivera, 2020, Don Bosco Prep Zack Oswald, 2020, St. Peter’s Prep Mark Hindy, 2020 Seton Hall Prep Coaches HC-Jim Wladyka, Don Bosco Prep AC-Brian Chapman, Millburn AC-Jim LaRose, Bergen Catholic AC-Ron Gavasi, Montclair Sponsor Shoutout! JSZ was able to provide a behind-the-scenes look at this event thanks to our great partner and sponsor, Diamond Nation.

It didn’t take Clarence Lewis very long to fall in love with a college football program. Only a few days after visiting the University of Notre Dame’s campus, Lewis announced late Monday night a verbal commitment to join the Fighting Irish after his senior season concludes in 2020. Blessed! 🙏🏽 #IrishBouNDXX @CoachBrianKelly @Coach_TJoseph @ToddLyght @CoachMikeElston @TomLoy247 pic.twitter.com/muKDc8wEJD— prince_slvmm (@lewisclarence11) June 11, 2019 Listed at 6’1″ and 185 pounds, the Mater Dei Prep product has blossomed into one of the premier lockdown cornerbacks in New Jersey over the past few seasons. While reliable stats are scarce, there’s little to no doubt that Lewis is a difference-maker. He has next level speed and certainly has proven over the last season to have a natural knack for the ball. Watch JSZ’s highlight reel of Clarence Lewis: The commitment instantly pushes him to the top of the premiere recruits in New Jersey’s Class of 2020. Lewis will join fellow rising senior and tight end prospect Kevin Bauman (Red Bank Catholic) as Shore Conference players committed to the Fighting Irish. Lewis selected Notre Dame after yielding 15 offers from a variety of Power Five schools, including Nebraska, Rutgers, Vanderbilt and Purdue, among others. Stay tuned in with Jersey Sports Zone all summer long as we bring you exclusive highlights and updated recruiting news from the top athletes in New Jersey.

It’s state championship Saturday with four finals set for Bob DeMeo Field in Hamilton Township. JSZ closes out the baseball season with highlights and post-game reaction from all four title tilts! Emerson 8 Glassboro 5 – Group 1 State Championship Trailing 5-0 in the top of the seventh inning, the Cavos pulled off a improbable comeback to capture the state championship. Mike Carmosino tied the game with a two-run double, before Frankie Savino gave Emerson the lead with a two-out, two-run double. Pete Durocher, Joe Carmosino and Ryan Taub also added RBIs during the Cavos’ rally. Noah Putney went 3-4 with an RBI for the Bulldogs in the loss. JSZ’s Mike Frankel has the thrilling highlights and reaction: Pascack Hills 2 Point Pleasant Boro 0 – Group 2 State Championship Ryan Ramsey threw a one-hitter with nine strikeouts and Mike Rodriguez produced all the offense with a two run single in the bottom of the 6th inning to give the Cowboys a second straight state championship. Ramsey gave up a single to the first batter of the game and only allowed a fourth inning walk after that. Point Boro starter Nick Guzzi matched goose eggs with Ramsey through five innings. Ramsey was selected in the 36th round of the MLB Draft by the Cleveland Indians and is committed to the University of Maryland. JSZ’s Rich Chrampanis has the highlights: Wall 10 West Morris 2 – Group 3 State Championship The Crimson Knights erupted for 14 hits highlighted by six runs in the first two innings and Trey Dombroski closed out his high school career with another complete game gem to give Wall its first state championship since 2004. Dombroski needed just 81 pitches on a complete game that saw both runs come unearned. The lefty heading to Monmouth had eight strikeouts and no walks. JSZ’s Rich Chrampanis has the highlights and post-game reaction from the Shore Conference’s lone state champ: Ridgewood 2 Eastern 1 – Group 4 State Championship Ridgewood’s offense has been overpowering all season long, but when the bats didn’t come to life, the Maroons relied on a championship-level pitching performance to secure the first state title in school history. Quinnipiac commit Kevin Seitter threw 5.2 innings with 10 strikeouts to lead the Maroons to the best season in school history. JSZ’s Jay Cook has the highlights and post-game reaction: Sponsor Shoutout! Jersey Sports Zone’s coverage of all Eastern athletics is brought to you by Cooper University Health Care.

Arguably the best pure shooter in New Jersey’s Class of 2020 has made his college plans public, and Big East fans better get to know his name fast. St. Benedict’s Prep’s CJ Wilcher, a 6’5 shooting guard with a killer jumpshot, announced on social media earlier this afternoon a verbal commitment to the Xavier Musketeers. Commited!!!⚔️ pic.twitter.com/PUT53srf3V— CJ Wilcher (@CJWilcher) June 7, 2019 Wilcher, who was named to Jersey Sports Zone’s 2019 All-Zone basketball team, was the top scoring threat on a Gray Bees squad that reached a 27-5 record and made it to the NJISAA Prep A state final. Wilcher quickly transitioned from a role-playing three-point shooter as a sophomore into a legitimate top-tier scoring threat in his junior campaign at the Newark prep school. Watch JSZ’s highlight reel of CJ Wilcher here: Xavier’s scouts have made a home picking up talented New Jersey players. Bergen Catholic power forward Zach Freemantle (Class of 2019) was one of their most prized signees last summer. Stay tuned with Jersey Sports Zone throughout the summer as we update you on college commitments for top NJ players as well as top-level highlight reels.

David Glancy hit a three run laser to left field with big league statcast numbers to back it up and Shane Panzini was masterful in a complete game one-hitter to give Red Bank Catholic the program’s second baseball SCT title. JSZ has the highlights and post-game reaction from First Energy Park in Lakewood Red Bank Catholic 5 Manalapan 0 – Shore Conference Tournament Final Sophomore Shane Panzini got the ball at the home of the Lakewood BlueClaws and served notice that he will be one of New Jersey’s top arms over the next two years. The righty touched 91 on the radar gun and gave up just one single on the way to the Caseys second ever SCT baseball crown. In the bottom of the third, David Glancy delivered a missle to left that had an exit velocity of 105 miles per hour. The three run blast was all the offense the Caseys needed. RBC added two more runs in the 4th on a pair of wild pitches and Panzini took care of the rest. Manalapan played the game with heavy hearts. Sophomore David Korman passed away on Monday night. Our thoughts and prayers to the Braves baseball program. Following the win, RBC shortstop and pitcher Vin Bianchi learned he was selected in the 35th round of the 2019 MLB Draft by the Los Angeles Angels. Bianchi is expected to head to college and join the Saint John’s Red Storm. JSZ’s Rich Chrampanis has the highlights of the Shore Conference final in Lakewood: Jersey Sports Zone’s coverage of Red Bank Catholic is brought to you by Playa Bowls in Red Bank. Thanks for their support and allowing us to bring you great RBC coverage all year long