Pleasantville High School
Watch Saturday 9.11 JSZ Football Highlights
Week 2 wraps up with another full slate of Saturday games. Check back throughout the night to watch all of the highlights! Week Two comes to a close with six more games of JSZ coverage around the state. Jay Cook has the OceanFirst Bank Game of the Week between DePaul Catholic and St. Joe-Montvale (available […] To access this post, you must purchase an All Access Pass. You can log in here or purchase an All Access Pass here. Become an All Access Pass Holder. You will be redirected to login or purchase page.
Atlantic County Track and Field Championships
County titles were on the line in Buena on Thursday, and there were standout performances all over the track. Penn State commit Lauren Princz set a new PR in the 100, winning the title for Egg Harbor Township the state’s fastest time this season (11.76). Monmouth commit Ahmad Brock won the boys 100 for EHT. […] To access this post, you must purchase an All Access Pass. You can log in here or purchase an All Access Pass here. Become an All Access Pass Holder. You will be redirected to login or purchase page.
Final Week of JSZ Game Balls! Get Those Votes in Now!
The 2021 high school basketball season still has one week remaining but this is JSZ’s final weekly game ball poll of the basketball season. Jersey Sports Zone’s Game Balls are back for the 2021 basketball season. We’ve got great performances from all around the state. Our polls are open now through Tuesday at 3:00 p.m. The winner of each poll will receive a JSZ Game Ball during the season. To nominate a player for a Game Ball please email the JSZ team before Saturday at 8:00 p.m. Mike Frankel: mikefrankel@jerseysportszone.com (South Jersey nominations) Jay Cook: jay@jerseysportszone.com (North Jersey nominations) Nery Rodriguez: nery@jerseysportszone.com (Central Jersey nominations) South Jersey Game Ball Nominees JSZ’s South Jersey poll includes players in the BCSL, CAL, Colonial, Olympic, and Tri-County conferences. Take Our Poll Take Our Poll Jersey Sports Zone’s South Jersey Game Ball poll is presented to you by NJM Insurance. Central Jersey Game Polls JSZ’s Central Jersey poll includes players in the CVC, GMC, and Shore conferences. Take Our Poll Take Our Poll North Jersey Game Ball Nominations JSZ’s North Jersey poll includes players in the Big North, HCIAL, NJAC, NJIC, SEC, Skyland and UCC conferences. Take Our Poll Take Our Poll
JSZ Dunk of the Year Sweet 16 Opens!
With everyone at home, JSZ turns things up a notch with our Plays of the Year. We’ve got an NCAA Tournament-style bracket for the 2020 JSZ Dunk of the Year! Watch 32 dunks captured by our cameras and cast your vote every day! If you’re like us, we’re missing brackets during March Madness so our Plays of the Year are going to bring a chance for us to look at matchups and have some fun! We took the top 32 dunks and voters pared us down now to the Sweet 16. Keep voting for your favorite until we get to the final two! The polls are open NOW until 6:00 pm on Friday. Round 3 (The Elite 8) begins on Friday night at 7:00 pm. Vote Now for the Sweet 16 Matchups! Click on each player’s name to watch their specific dunk. Ryan Bradley vs. Elijah Jones Take Our Poll Jack Carroll vs. DJ Woodbury Take Our Poll Connor Walsh vs. Keon Sabb Take Our Poll Trey Patterson vs. Elijah Perkins Take Our Poll Taj Thweatt vs. Otega Oweh Take Our Poll Mark Armstrong vs. Corey Floyd, Jr. Take Our Poll Lance Ware vs. Zarique Nutter Take Our Poll Zubair Lee vs. Jahlil White Take Our Poll JSZ’s 2020 Dunk of the Year is brought to you by Princeton Orthopaedic Associates.
Vote now for the JSZ Dunk of the Year!
With everyone at home, JSZ turns things up a notch with our Plays of the Year. We’ve got an NCAA Tournament style bracket for the 2020 JSZ Dunk of the Year! Watch 32 dunks captured by our cameras and cast your vote every day! If you’re like us, we’re missing brackets during March Madness so our Plays of the Year are going to bring a chance for us to look at matchups and have some fun! We took the top 32 dunks from our archives and put them in head-to-head matchups. We’re asking for your vote every day as we narrow the field from the round of 32 down to the final two! The polls are open NOW until 6:00 pm on Thursday. Round Two (The Sweet 16) begins on Thursday night at 7:00 pm. Vote now on 16 first-round matchups! Click on each player’s name to watch the dunk and cast your vote: Jonathan Kuminga (Patrick School) vs. Ryan Bradley (Holmdel) Take Our Poll Derrick Grant (St. Thomas Aquinas) vs. Elijah Jones (Pleasantville) Take Our Poll Niels Lane (Roselle Catholic) vs. Jack Carroll (Rumson-Fair Haven) Take Our Poll Quadry Adams (St. Thomas Aquinas) vs. DJ Woodbury (Burlington City) Take Our Poll Jamir Watkins (Trenton Catholic) vs. Connor Walsh (Manasquan) Take Our Poll Noah Farrakhan (Patrick School) vs. Trey Patterson (Rutgers Prep) Take Our Poll Keon Sabb (Williamstown) vs. Justin Harcourt (University) Take Our Poll Elijah Perkins (Ranney) vs. Ben Cerrato (Haddonfield) Take Our Poll Taj Thweatt (Wildwood Catholic) vs. Alex Galvan (Manasquan) Take Our Poll Otega Oweh (Rutgers Prep) vs. Cliff Omoruyi (Roselle Catholic) Take Our Poll Mark Armstrong (St. Peter’s Prep) vs. CJ Wilcher (Roselle Catholic) Take Our Poll Stephen Bayard (Atlantic City) vs. Corey Floyd, Jr. (Roselle Catholic) Take Our Poll Lance Ware (Camden) vs. Kevin Bauman (Red Bank Catholic) Take Our Poll Elmarko Jackson (St. Augustine Prep) vs. Zarique Nutter (Patrick School) Take Our Poll Zubair Lee (Eastern) vs. Matt Zona (Bergen Catholic) Take Our Poll Jahlil White (Wildwood Catholic) vs. Phil Brown, Jr. (Hudson Catholic) Take Our Poll JSZ’s Dunk of the Year is presented by Princeton Orthopaedic Associates
Vote for NJM Insurance South Jersey Week 8 Game Balls
It’s almost playoff time, but first there are a few more game balls to award! South Jersey’s top players continue to put up some amazing numbers this season, and now it’s time to decide which of those players deserve our Week 8 NJM Insurance JSZ Game Balls. Our polls are now OPEN, so get those votes in early and often. The polls close at 3:00 pm on Tuesday. Take Our Poll Take Our Poll South Jersey Game Balls are proudly sponsored by NJM Insurance.
Vote Now for NJM Insurance South Jersey Week 7 Game Balls
We’re getting closer to playoff time, and South Jersey standouts continue to put up some big numbers on the hardwood. Our polls are now OPEN, so get those votes in for your favorite player. The polls close at 3:00 pm on Tuesday. JSZ will award Game Balls to winners at a midweek practice or game. Take Our Poll Take Our Poll South Jersey Game Balls are brought to you by NJM Insurance.
Atlantic City Sprints By Pleasantville to Close Out the Battle by the Bay
Atlantic City 91 Pleasantville 68 | Battle by the Bay A fourth-quarter explosion by the Vikings secured the blowout win over the Greyhounds in latest Super Bowl Sunday meeting between these Cape-Atlantic League rivals.. Quran Palms (23 points & 10 rebounds) and Stephen Byard (22 points & 13 rebounds) drop double-doubles for Atlantic City in the win. Elijah Jones went for 21 points and 16 rebounds in the loss for Pleasantville. JSZ’s James Mooney has the highlights from Atlantic City:
Newark East Side Hangs on to Top Pleasantville
The Red Raiders survived a late rally from the Greyhounds to pick up a 55-52 win on the road. Gabriel Olaniyi knocked down five three-pointers before an ankle injury forced him to leave the game in the third quarter with a game-high 19 points. Mikah Johnson poured in 18 points to help steer the Red Raiders to victory. JSZ’s James Mooney has the highlights from Pleasantville:
Watch Monday 1.13 JSZ Basketball Highlights
Our cameras were on hand for three great match-ups across the state. Stay tuned to this page all night as the highlights roll in. Middletown South 71 Marlboro 65 James Anderson led four Eagles in double figures with 19 points and sparked an 11-0 run in the 4th quarter to give Middletown South a seventh straight win and a second victory over the Mustangs. Marlboro led 55-51 after three quarters but the Eagles improved to 10-1 thanks to their balanced attack. JSZ’s Rich Chrampanis has the highlights from the Shore Conference: Mainland 37 Holy Spirit 32 The Mustangs trailed by eight early in the fourth quarter but engineered a 13-0 run to storm back and topple the Spartans. Luke Mazur scored a team-high ten points in the win. Tony Tamanini knocked down two huge three-pointers to help fuel the game-winning run by Mainland. JSZ’s James Mooney has the highlights from this key Cape Atlantic League clash Linwood: Pleasantville 64 Middle Township 60 The Greyhounds were in cruise control for most of the night, but had to hold off a late charge from the Panthers to earn the victory. Elijah Jones led the way for The Ville with 21 points in the win. Matt Marino pumped in 21 points for Middle in the loss. JSZ’s Mike Frankel has the highlights from this Cape Atlantic League battle:
Pleasantville loses a heartbreaker at the Boardwalk Basketball Classic
Pleasantville met Father Judge (PA) in bracket final at the Boardwalk Basketball Classic to close out 2019. JSZ has the highlights from the Wildwoods Convention Center. Father Judge (PA) 53 Pleasantville 52 | Boardwalk Basketball Classic The Greyhounds fought valiantly to overcome a 13-point halftime deficit and take a four-point lead into the fourth quarter. Pleasantville was unable to close out the Crusaders, who re-took the lead with under five seconds in regulation. Justin Blythe scored a game-high 25 points including the game-winner. Elijah Jones scored a team-high 16 points in the loss. JSZ’s James Mooney has the highlights from the Wildwoods Convention Center:
Diggs wins Zoneman, Schiano speaks at JSZ Football Banquet
The third annual JSZ Football Banquet featured the top players in New Jersey, an inspiring JSZ Courage Award and Rutgers head coach Greg Schiano opening our ceremony. It all capped off with Woodrow Wilson’s Fadil Diggs winning the Zoneman Trophy. Watch Jersey Sports Zone’s team coverage now! Rutgers Greg Schiano speaks at third annual Jersey Sports Zone Football Banquet The top high school football players from every part of New Jersey were assembled at the Delta Hotel in Woodbridge for the JSZ Football Banquet. Before the highlights of the 2019 JSZ All-Zone team, Rutgers head football coach Greg Schiano got things started with a great message to the honorees. The Scarlet Knights have made it known that recruiting the best players in -state is a top priority. Schiano was joined by assistant coaches Nunzio Campanile and Fran Brown to celebrate New Jersey’s best on the gridiron: Fadil Diggs wins JSZ Zoneman Trophy Woodrow Wilson defensive end and wide receiver Fadil Diggs took home the JSZ Zoneman Trophy. The Texas A&M commit helped lead the Tigers to a South Group 3 Regional Championship and won the balloting among NJ head football coaches and statewide media members. St. Joe-Hammonton running back Jada Byers was the runnerup. Byers and Diggs had equal first-place votes but Fadil was on nine more ballots in the Heisman style voting which gave him the top honor: The Zoneman Trophy was presented by NJM Insurance. Thanks to NJM’s Joe Dotro for being on hand to honor the best players in New Jersey! Zoneman Voting Name High School 1st 2nd 3rd Total Fadil DiggsWoodrow Wilson252411134 Jada ByersSt. Joe-Hammonton251610117 Jalen BergerDon Bosco Prep13182499 Cody SimonSaint Peter's Prep12142080 Luke WyplerSt. Joe-Montvale251026 Kyle MonangaiDon Bosco Prep42521 Thanks to everyone from around the state who was part of the Zoneman process Zoneman Ballots JSZ Staff: Rich Chrampanis, Nery Rodriguez, Mike Frankel, Jay Cook Statewide Media: Chris Melvin, Asbury Park Press, Dave McCarthy, McCarthy Report, Todderick Hunt, NJ.Com, Bob Badders, Shore Sports Network, Kevin Minnick, NJ.Com, Andrew Koob, NJ.Com, Pat Lanni, NJ.Com, JJ Conrad, NJ.Com, Mike McGarry, Press of Atlantic City, Ryan Patti, Rivals.Com, Tom Williams, PrimeEvents.Net, Tom McGurk, Courier-Post, Brian Carr, NorthJerseySports.Com, Shawn Brown, 247 Sports, GMC Gridiron, Joe Zedalis, NJ.Com, Mike Kinney, NJ.Com, Mike Fenske, MJF Recruiting, Brian Dohn, 247 Sports, JP Parachini, Worrell Media Coaches: John McKenna, DePaul Catholic, Vito Campanile, Bergen Catholic, Dallas Whitaker, Somerville, Dan Russo, Vineland, Pete Lancetta, St. Augustine Prep, Jim Raso, Hammonton, Tim Gushue, Shawnee, John Emel, Penns Grove, Rob Hinson, Timber Creek, Dennis Thomas, Millville, Steve Scanlon, Clearview, Chuck Smith, Mainland, Joe Hoyle, Dwight Morrow Bill Fitzgerald, Seton Hall Prep Montrey Wright, Salem Kevin Smith, Ocean City Kevin Stetser, Egg Harbor Twp. Joe Wojceichowski, Lenape Jay Graber, Matawan Kevin Kostibos, Summit Dan Higgins, Piscataway Ken Loomis, Wildwood Vin Mistretta, Jackson Memorial Jeff Rainess, Holmdel John Fiore, Montclair Brian Bowers, Delbarton John Whitehead, Paramus Catholic Barris Grant, Hillside Len Zdanowicz, Brick Township John Adams, Woodstown Benji Wemberly, Hackensack Rob Davis, Barnegat Marion Bell, West Side Jamil Jackson, Elizabeth Drew Gibbs, Ramapo Rich Hansen, St. Peter’s Prep Wilber Valdez, Union City Kevin Carty, Hillsborough Frank Duffy, Phillipsburg Augie Hoffmann, St. Joe’s (Mont.) Ed Guerreri, Manalapan Jim Sharples, Jackson Liberty Brian Russo, Rahway William Nahan, Randolph Drew Lachenmayer, Allentown David Schuman Red Bank Regional Kenny Scott, Winslow Twp. Brian Leary, Highland LJ Clark, Lakewood Dan Sabella, Don Bosco Sean Clancy, Notre Dame Chris Thomas, Pitman Dan George, Long Branch Clifton Tabb, Pennsauken Mike Schatzman, Washington Twp Tim Hagerty, Glassboro Ralph Cinque, Clifton Sights and Sounds from JSZ Banquet Before the players came inside to eat dinner and watch JSZ’s All-Zone presentation, Nery Rodriguez gave us some red carpet coverage having fun with some of the best players in the state! JSZ Courage Award Winners Coach Dwayne Savage, Kenneth Smith – Camden Coach Chris Sacco, Ernest Howard, Pleasantville Jersey Sports Zone’s Mike Frankel was shooting highlights of Camden and Pleasantville in the state playoffs when gunshots rang out during the third quarter wounding two and killing 10-year old Micah Tennant. Through adversity, both towns turned to their football teams to help unite communities and begin the healing process. JSZ was proud to honor four great leaders with this award. In case you missed it, Jersey Sports Zone chronicled the resumption of the Camden/Pleasantville game at the home of the NFL’s Philadelphia Eagles Meet the 2019 JSZ All-Zone Team QuarterbackRunning BackWide ReceiverTight EndOffensive LineZoneman Finalists Michael Alaimo, St. Joe-MontvaleJaiden Abrams, HammontonTedy Afful, DePaul CatholicKevin Bauman, Red Bank CatholicChandler Bird, Saint AugustineJalen Berger, Don Bosco Prep Louie Barrios, Cedar CreekMyles Bailey, North BrunswickAhmad Brown, Holy SpiritDominic Busby, Seton Hall PrepBryan Felter, Bergen CatholicJada Byers, St. Joe-Hammonton JD Breslauer, Parsippany HillsMatt Colantuono, Seton Hall PrepEJ Comerford, Parsippany HillsShawn Collins, MontclairBardhyl Gashi, West EssexFadil Diggs, Woodrow Wilson Tahjamell Bullock, Saint Peter's PrepCorey Dempster, BoontonCarnell Davis, St. Augustine PrepCharles Finley, DePaul CatholicJalen Genao, Union CityKyle Monangai, Don Bosco Prep Andrew Butler, DePaul CatholicAudric Estime, St. Joe-MontvaleMalik Harvey, Woodrow WilsonLucas Giordano, Seton Hall PrepCody Simon, St. Peter's Prep Ryan Clark, Donovan CatholicEthan Harris, Northern HighlandsKyree Hinton, SomervilleNajae Hallenbeck, Toms River NorthLuke Wypler, St. Joe-Montvale Charles DePrima, RamapoMalik Ingram, Mater Dei PrepConnor Kennedy, LenapeDeclan McCauley, Westfield Devin Kargman, Woodrow WilsonAli Lee, Jr. WoodbridgeChris Long, WillingboroJosh Toner, Cherokee Connor Katz, CranfordMuheem McCargo, Woodrow WilsonJelani Mason, Saint Peter's PrepColin Tunc, Bergen Catholic Vincent Pinto, Park RidgePiotr Partyla, LyndhurstMalachi Melton, Cedar CreekGeno VanDeMark, St. Joe-Montvale Andrew Sanborn, UnionTrebor Pena, OceanAhmirr Robinson, UnionDevon Willock, Paramus Catholic Hank Shapiro, WestfieldFrank Riggio, VeronaGriffin Rooney, WestfieldIsaiah Wright, Saint Peter's Prep Zakee Swann, IrvingtonByron Shipman, Saint Peter's Prep Jake Tirone, RamapoTarheeb Still, Timber Creek Cortaz Williams, Notre Dame Zahir Swann, Irvington Defensive LineLinebackerDefensive BackKicker/PunterJSZ All-Prep Team Jeremiah Grant, Bergen CatholicTirek Austin-Cave, CamdenNahree Biggins, HillsideVincenzo Rea, ManalapanAaron Armitage, Blair Academy Jahmir Greene, Don Bosco PrepBobby/Tommy Coury, PhillipsburgDarian "Duce" Chestnut, CamdenSebastien Tasko, St. Joe-MontvaleNick DeGennaro, Hun Dominick Giudice, Mater Dei PrepJake DeLuccia, Wayne ValleyNasir Clerk, IrvingtonChristian Forbes, Lawrenceville Cameron Horsley, CinnaminsonSolomon DeShields, MillvilleJermaine Corbett, Long Branch Ian Franzoni, Hun Aaron Lewis, WillamstownGordon Forsyth, Rumson-Fair HavenCasey Larkin, WallSanoussi Kane, Blair Academy Leon Lowery, North BrunswickMikai Gbayor, IrvingtonClarence Lewis, Mater Dei PrepChristopher Mayo, Peddie Tywon Malone, Bergen CatholicCharlie Gordinier, Red Bank CatholicJoe Lusardi, SummitMatt Sluka, Peddie Andrew Messineo, RidgewoodTyreem Powell, VinelandElijuwan Mack, St. Joe-MontvaleKorey Smith, Peddie Collin McCarthy, Jackson MemorialColin Ramos, Don Bosco PrepJordan Morant, Bergen Catholic Isaiah Raikes, Saint Augustine PrepMakhi Scott, Penns GroveRJ Moten, Delran George Rooks, Saint Peter's PrepDalton Short, ShawneeAlex Odom, Kingsway Khurram Simpson, Mater Dei PrepClyde Washington, LenapeRomaine Robinson, Don Bosco Prep Amin Vanover, Saint Joe-MontvaleJack Wittmaack, RidgewoodEric Rogers, Burlington Twp. Ryan Ruane, Rumson-Fair Haven Keon Sabb, Glassboro DJ Woodbury, Burlington City JSZ Top Plays from 2019 We had the Top Play Belt winners of 2019 and the end of year Plays of the Year winners attend the banquet. Thanks to everyone who voted all year long! Jersey Sports Zone Weekly Top Play Winners Week 0: Sam Williams, PingryWeek 1: Thomas Amankwaa, HillsboroughWeek 2: David Hicks, Red Bank RegionalWeek 3: Nate Summerville, ShawneeWeek 4: Nasir Calhoun, Donovan CatholicWeek 5: Nasir Abney, Holy CrossWeek 6: Mike Casanata, Wayne HillsWeek 7: Jada Byers, St. Joe-HammontonWeek 8: Jake Cook, MainlandWeek 9: Jimmy Pepe, Randolph Week 10: Lonnie Cebulski, Jackson Memorial Jersey Sports Zone Plays of the Year Winners Touchdown Run of the Year: Billy Guidetti, Red Bank Catholic Touchdown Pass Play of the Year: Hank Shapiro/Griffin Rooney, Westfield Defensive TD of the Year: Wally Doman, Jackson Memorial Special Teams TD of the Year: Damon Murray, Hoboken Sack/Big Hit of the Year: Amin Vanover, St. Joe-Montvale Clutch Play of the Year: Jahmir Brown, Woodbridge Viewers Choice Play of the Year: Brandon Martins, Nutley 2019 JSZ Zoneman Trophy Finalists In case you missed it, watch JSZ’s profile of our six Zoneman Finalists: Jalen Berger, Don Bosco Prep Jalen Berger has been one of New Jersey’s most prolific recruits throughout his four-year varsity career as the starting running back at North Jersey power Don Bosco Prep. Berger, named a 2020 All-American, delivered the goods in his senior season while accounting for 1,218 scrimmage yards and 17 touchdowns for the Ironmen. Berger remains uncommitted yet holds offers from college football’s best — Alabama, Ohio State, Penn State, Wisconsin, LSU and Michigan are among the schools recruiting him. The announcement will come on live TV during the All-American bowl on Jan. 4 from San Antonio, TX. Jada Byers, St. Joseph (Hamm.) There’s no other way to put it — Jada Byers is the most dynamic scoring threat to ever grace South Jersey. Byers, a Sacred Heart commit, was an electric runner with the football who scored a South Jersey record 102 touchdowns in three years of varsity play with the Wildcats. His mark of 644 career points ranks second in South Jersey history only behind Kevin Harvey. The highlights of Byers’ 2019 season was a 10-touchdown performance against Morris Catholic in the sectional semifinals. Fadil Diggs, Woodrow Wilson There might not be a better two-way player in the Garden State. The Woodrow Wilson star and future Texas A&M Aggie shined on both sides of the ball in a stellar 2019 season. He collected 95.5 tackles and 17.5 sacks on defense while also catching 65 passes for 1,031 yards and 11 touchdowns on offense. Woodrow Wilson head coach Preston Brown told JSZ Diggs is the best player in Camden’s history. Kyle Monangai, Don Bosco Prep Talk to anyone in North Jersey and they’ll tell you Don Bosco Prep doesn’t get back to it’s winning ways without Kyle Monangai on the field. After transferring to the Ramsey private school from Seton Hall Prep after his sophomore season, Monangai put up eye-popping numbers. He put up 2,903 scrimmage yards on 310 touches with 35 touchdowns in arguably the toughest conference in America. He holds 25-plus D-I offers yet remains uncommitted. Cody Simon, St. Peter’s Prep He’s the best player on the best team in New Jersey — does anything else need to be said? Simon’s boasts one of the most polished resume’s we’ve seen in years. He was a preseason for the 2019 Butkus Award, was one of five N.J. players named an All-American and is committed to play at Ohio State. Simon led the Marauders with 106 tackles, 4.5 sacks, four interceptions and four touchdowns on defense and special teams. Luke Wypler, St. Joe’s (Mont.) What does it take to be ranked the No. 1 center in the entire country? Watch the way Luke Wypler dominates on the gridiron. Wypler’s intelligence and intensity on the field is a major reason why St. Joe’s had the toughest offensive line in the state — that translated to a Non-Public Group 4 championship in 2018. Wypler, also named a 2020 All-American, is committed to play at Ohio State after a stellar career in Montvale.
Vote now for JSZ’s 2019 Football Plays of the Year!
As we get ready for the Regional Championships and the end of the high school football season, JSZ has gone deep in its archives to pick out the best plays captured by our cameras during the 2019 football season. We’ve got seven categories for you to vote on. The polls are open NOW through Wednesday night at 9:00 p.m. The winner of each category will get an invite to Jersey Sports Zone’s third annual football banquet on December 11 in Woodbridge. Thank you again to all the great athletes for giving us so many incredible plays to choose from. Watch all the videos below and cast your vote now! TD Run of the Year Take Our Poll TD Pass Play of the Year Take Our Poll Defensive TD of the Year Take Our Poll Special Teams TD of the Year Take Our Poll Sack of the Year Take Our Poll Clutch Play of the Year Take Our Poll Viewers Choice Play of the Year Take Our Poll JSZ’s Top Play Belt winners from the regular season are not in the Plays of the Year. Those winners will be invited to the banquet and be honored along with our Plays of the Year winners. JSZ 2019 Top Play Belt Winners Week 0: Sam Williams, Pingry Week 1: Thomas Amankwaa, Hillsborough Week 2: David Hicks, Red Bank Regional Week 3: Nate Summerville, Shawnee Week 4: Nasir Calhoun, Donovan Catholic Week 5: Nasir Abney, Holy Cross Week 6: Mike Cassanata, Wayne Hills Week 7: Jada Byers, St. Joe-Hammonton Week 8: Jake Cook, Mainland Week 9: Jimmy Pepe, Randolph Week 10: Lonnie Cebulski, Jackson Memorial
“17 Minutes for Micah”: A Jersey Sports Zone Exclusive
Wednesday night at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia provided two communities in South Jersey with a pair of themes — the sadness surrounding the loss of an innocent life to gun violence and the passions and drive to prosper through tough times. Six shots rang through the air during the third quarter of Friday night’s NJSIAA sectional playoff game between Camden and Pleasantville. Micah Tennant, 10-year-old bystander in the stands, was shot, leading the game to be suspended. The shooting sent shockwaves through South Jersey. Ultimately, the Philadelphia Eagles lent a helping hand and host the remaining 17 minutes of game play while giving the players a first-class experience. Tennant, who battled for days in a local hospital, succumbed to his wounds and passed away only hours before the game resumed Wednesday evening. Jersey Sports Zone presents “17 Minutes for Micah,” a long-form feature giving you a behind-the-scenes look at how players from Pleasantville and Camden — with aid from the Philadelphia Eagles — bonded together to persevere in a tragic time:
NFL’s Eagles Help Heal After Shooting
The Philadelphia Eagles opened Lincoln Financial Field on Wednesday for the resumption of the Camden-Pleasantville state playoff game following a shooting in the stands last Friday night that claimed the life of 10-year old Micah “Dew” Tennant. Jersey Sports Zone provides team coverage from all the activity in Philadelphia Camden 22 Pleasantville 0 | Central Jersey Group 2 Semifinal Dashaun Harris and Duce Chestnut scored on touchdown runs at the home of the NFL’s Philadelphia Eagles to lead Camden to the Central Jersey Group 2 championship game. The game resumed in Philadelphia with 4:58 remaining in the third quarter and Camden leading 6-0. The Panthers were able to put together two scoring drives on Wednesday to earn a road trip to Cedar Creek in the title game on Saturday, November 30. The Philadelphia Eagles hosted the resumption of this playoff game. Head coach Doug Pederson led Eagles players including Carson Wentz, Zach Ertz, Brandon Graham, Malcolm Jenkins, and Jason Peters to meet with both teams. A moment of silence took place for Micah Tennant, the 10-year old who was shot last Friday night at the game and died earlier on Wednesday. JSZ’s Rich Chrampanis has a recap from the entire day in Philadelphia: Coming on Thursday to JSZ: “17 Minutes for Micah” Coming up on Thursday, Jersey Sports Zone will have an in-depth look at the day in Philadelphia for the Camden and Pleasantville football teams. We will take you inside the locker rooms of the Panthers and Greyhounds and we’ll have more on how the Eagles tried to help unite two proud communities from this tragedy. Here’s a sneak peek of what we’ll have in our extended feature:
Philadelphia Eagles to host conclusion of Camden-Pleasantville state playoff game
The NJSIAA has announced Camden and Pleasantville will resume their Central Group 2 playoff game on Wednesday, at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia. The game is closed to the public, but a limited number of passes will be made available for players on both teams to distribute to their family members. The game was stopped suddenly due to gun violence on Friday night. The game will resume in the third quarter with Camden holding a 6-0 lead. Larry White, executive director, NJSIAA (New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association) issued the following update on plans for completing the approximately 17 remaining minutes of the scholastic football playoff game between Pleasantville H.S. and Camden H.S. This contest was halted on Friday (11/15) evening, following a shooting in Pleasantville, where the game was being held. “Following NJSIAA’s statement on Saturday related to the completion of the game on Wednesday, November 20, at a neutral site, we can now announce that the Philadelphia Eagles have offered to host the suspended Pleasantville H.S. / Camden H.S. football playoff game at 4 p.m. on Wednesday, November 20, at Lincoln Financial Field. Each high school will be provided a defined number of free passes, specifically for distribution to players’ parents and family members; the game will be closed to the general public. Specific details on the game passes will be provided shortly to both schools. The game will also be streamed live and free-of-charge on NJ.com. “The NJSIAA would like to thank many of our member schools that offered their assistance, including the Black Horse Pike School District for its willingness to step in to host this game on such short notice and under difficult and unusual circumstances. “It’s extremely unfortunate that a senselessly violent act has impacted this game, and there will certainly be a wide range of emotions along both sidelines. However, thanks to the Eagles’ generosity and community spirit, Pleasantville and Camden student-athletes and their families will have an opportunity to write their own ending to this game. They’ll compete on a world-class stage, sending a clear message that violence will not win.”
Gun Violence Mars Camden-Pleasantville Playoff Game
It was a normal New Jersey high school football playoff game; until it wasn’t. Camden was leading Pleasantville 6-0 in the third quarter when at least six shots were fired in the stands behind the Greyhounds sideline. Fans, players, and coaches ran for cover. Referees dropped down onto the turf field. Police officers, security guards, and emergency personnel quickly rushed to the stands. At least two people, including a child, were taken by ambulance to a nearby hospital. Saturday Update: Five people were arrested in connection with the shooting. A total of three people were shot. Here’s the latest update courtesy of NBC News The NJSIAA has announced that the Camden-Pleasantville game will resume on Wednesday at an undisclosed neutral location with no fans allowed to attend. Camden leads the state playoff game 6-0 in the third quarter Statement by Larry White, executive director, NJSIAA (New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association) pic.twitter.com/NfMiBLf8Un— NJSIAA (@NJSIAA) November 17, 2019
Vote for the final JSZ Game Balls of the 2019 football season!
Just like that, the 2019 high school football regular season in New Jersey has come and gone. Jersey Sports Zone is highlighting another batch of stellar performances with game ball voting where players in every corner of the state are honored. The polls stay open through Tuesday at 2:00 pm. Thanks to everyone for voting! South Jersey Our South Jersey game ball poll includes players from the West Jersey Football League. Thanks to NJM Insurance for sponsoring our South Jersey Game Balls! Take Our Poll North Jersey Take Our Poll Central Jersey Take Our Poll
Catch Them If You Can: Week Seven’s Top Plays from JSZ
Another fantastic week of high school football action in Jersey Sports Zone. The Week 7 Top Plays features plenty of star power. Once again, we have the best plays captured by JSZ cameras in every part of the state. Watch them now and cast your vote! The polls are open now through Tuesday at 3:00 pm. The winner of our poll will receive the JSZ Top Play Belt and a visit from Jersey Sports Zone at a mid-week practice. Thanks again to all the great athletes who give us these great plays each and every week! Watch our ten nominees and then cast your vote below: Take Our Poll Last Week’s Top Play Winner Congratulations to Wayne Hills’ Mike Casasanta for winning the Week 6 Top Play Belt and thanks to everyone who voted!
Watch Friday 10.25 JSZ Football Highlights
The penultimate week of the regular season features some great match-ups all over the state. We’ve got nine games of action from every part of New Jersey. Watch our teaser to get a taste of our coverage and then scroll down to watch all of our extended highlights and interviews! Westfield 20 Phillipsburg 14 (OT) Phillipsburg (7-0) had been steamrolling opponents in 2019 but met their match and more Friday night as Westfield (4-2) and its dynamic passing attack handed the Stateliners their first loss of 2019. Griffin Rooney hauled in the game-winning touchdown pass from Hank Shapiro to seal the win in this classic Mid-State 38 battle. JSZ’s Kenneth Bradley has the thrilling highlights and post-game reaction from Phillipsburg: Sponsor Shoutout! Jersey Sports Zone was able to be on hand for this heart-pounding game thanks to two loyal sponsors. Here’s to Assemblyman Jon Bramnick (Westfield) and the Garnet Booster Club (Phillipsburg) for sponsoring JSZ’s coverage tonight! Red Bank Catholic 27 Donovan Catholic 16 Anthony Borriello threw a 39-yard TD pass to Kevin Bauman and added a 30-yard TD run early in the 4th quarter as the Caseys score 20 straight points in the second half to hand the Griffins their first loss of the season. Elijah Jules had a pair of TD runs for Red Bank Catholic who improve to 4-3 on the season. JSZ’s Rich Chrampanis has the highlights from one of Week 7’s marquee matchups: Jersey Sports Zone’s coverage of RBC is brought to you by the Jersey Shore Institute of Health & Wellness. JSI is the reason we can bring you Caseys highlights in all sports all year long! Union 51 Bridgewater-Raritan 35 Many wondered how two of the best programs in the Mid-State 38 would matchup in a late season meeting, but no one could have predicted the offensive performance that would take place in Bridgewater. A first half that saw no punts had Union leading the Panthers 31-28. In the third quarter the Farmers would get a stop that eventually led to 14 unanswered points and proved to be a deciding factor entering the fourth quarter. Union quarterback Andrew Sanborn finished with 265 passing yards and four touchdowns while Bridgewater-Raritan quarterback Alex Fromberg had 274 yards and four touchdowns as well. Union stays undefeated at 8-0 while the Panthers drop to 4-4. JSZ’s Nery Rodriguez has the highlights: Thank you to Princeton Orthopaedic Associates for sponsoring our Bridgewater-Raritan coverage. Williamstown 17 Shawnee 0 The Braves recorded their fifth shutout of the season with a win on the road against the Renegades. Dougie Brown ran for a touchdown to give Williamstown a 7-0 halftime lead, before Brendan Amico kicked a field goal to extend the lead to 10-0 in the third quarter. The Braves stopped Shawnee on a late fourth quarter drive, and then Chris Forman scored a touchdown to serve as an exclamation point. Williamstown stays undefeated at (8-0). JSZ’s Mike Frankel has the highlights from Medford: Coverage of Shawnee is sponsored by Cooper University Health Care. Bergen Catholic 50 Paramus Catholic 12 Bergen Catholic continues to roll. The Crusaders notched their most lopsided victory of 2019 Friday night on the heels of great defense and a suffocating rushing attack. Ryan Butler and Amar Gist each tallied a pair of touchdowns while AJ Longo, Tywone Malone and Javon Cruz anchored a relentless defensive effort. JSZ’s Jay Cook has the highlights from Paramus: Sponsor Shoutout! Jersey Sports Zone’s coverage of all Bergen Catholic athletics is brought to you by Rothman Orthpaedics. Pleasantville 21 Buena 14 The Greyhounds (6-1) clinch a share of its first division/conference title in 42 years with come-from-behind win over the Chiefs (6-2). Down 14-7 at halftime, Pleasantville rallied in the third quarter to take the lead. Freshman quarterback Marlon Leslie connected with senior wideout Keon Henry on a 35-yard strike to spark the comeback. After a turnover on downs, Ernest Howard powered into the endzone his second touchdown of the night to give the Greyhounds the lead. JSZ’s James Mooney has the highlights and reaction from Buena: Ridgewood 27 Kennedy 0 After suffering a surprise 13-0 shutout to Clifton last week, Ridgewood rebounded in a big way with a shutout of their own over Kennedy. The Jack Wittmaack-led defense kept the Knights out of the redzone in the second half while captain Gabe Santiago finished the night off with a 16-yard TD run. JSZ’s Jay Cook has the highlights from Ridgewood: Holmdel 17 Raritan 14 Evan Jennings had a 10-yard TD run and a 70-yard scoop and score and the Holmdel defense produced three critical turnovers on forced fumbles to get a big home win and snap a two-game skid. JSZ’s Rich Chrampanis has the highlights from the Shore Conference: Jersey Sports Zone’s coverage of Holmdel is made possible by the Law Offices of Lawrence Luttrell Mater Dei Prep 37 Middletown North 0 Alex Brown threw two TD passes and Naran Buntin had a TD run and TD catch to help Mater Dei Prep break a three-game losing streak. The Seraphs improve to 5-3 on the season while Middletown North is now 4-4. JSZ’s Rich Chrampanis has the highlights during the celebration of the 100th year of football in Middletown:
The Polls are Open! Vote NOW for JSZ Week 2 South, Central and North Game Balls!
Just like that, Week 2 of the 2019 high school football season in New Jersey has come and gone. Jersey Sports Zone is highlighting another batch of stellar performances with game ball voting where players in every corner of the state are honored. The polls stay open through Tuesday at 2:00 pm. Thanks to everyone for voting! South Jersey Our South Jersey game ball poll includes players from the West Jersey Football League. Thanks to NJM Insurance for sponsoring our South Jersey Game Balls! Take Our Poll North Jersey Our North Jersey game ball poll includes players from the Super Football Conference and the Mid-State 38. Take Our Poll Central Jersey Our Central Jersey game ball poll includes players from the Shore Conference, Mercer County and the Greater Middlesex Conference. Take Our Poll
Watch JSZ’s Friday Week 00 Football Highlights
New Jersey high school football opening weekend continues with Friday night action. JSZ has three exciting match-ups from around the state, plus bonus coverage of Wayne Hills in action in South Carolina. Cedar Creek 24 Willingboro 20 The Pirates pulled off a statement win to open the season, against the defending Central Jersey Group 1 champion Chimeras. Cedar Creek senior QB Louis Barrios ran for a touchdown and connected with sophomore WR Jojo Bermudez for a score. Purdue commit Malachi Melton returned a punt for a touchdown in what proved to be the game-winning score. Ah-Shaun Davis threw three touchdown passes for Willingboro in the loss, two of them going to Temple recruit Chris Long. JSZ’s Mike Frankel has the highlights from Egg Harbor City: Pleasantville 27 Salem 18 The Greyhounds fell behind 12-0 early before battling back to take down the Rams. Freshman QB Marlon Leslie showed great poise in his debut for Pleasantville, as he rushed for a touchdown and connected with Zahir Washington for a score. Keon Henry and Ernest Howard also found the endzone for The Ville. Kaciir Street made a 94-yard touchdown catch and rushed for another score for Salem in the loss. JSZ’s Mike Frankel has the highlights from Pleasantville: DePaul 52 Pope John 28 The first game in the Andrew Butler era at DePaul couldn’t have been much better. Butler threw for 343 yards and four touchdowns while also adding in another score on the ground. West Virginia tight end commit Charles Finley found the end zone twice, along with senior tailback Sean Kelly. DePaul head coach John McKenna secured his 100th career win in the victory. JSZ’s Jay Cook has the highlights from Wayne: Ridge View (SC) 12 Wayne Hills 0 After opening last season in Utah, Wayne Hills went out of state once again this time to Columbia, South Carolina and a matchup with Ridge View High. The Patriots had some NFL support on the sidelines as Carolina Panthers tight end Greg Olsen came from Charlotte to support his high school alma mater. Ridge View took a 6-0 lead into the half on a Cincere Scott TD and added one more score to pick up the win. Wayne Hills returns to NJ and gets ready for a showdown with rival Wayne Valley in Week 1.
Younger Pleasantville Squad Aims to Keep Program on the Rise
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
Stars Shine at Atlantic County Track and Field Championships
St. Augustine’s Sincere Rhea and Oakcrest’s Brielle Smith headlined plenty of standout performances at the Atlantic County Championships. Rhea is a Penn State commit and Smith is a Stanford commit. Both should be athletes to watch at the Meet of Champions next month. Cedar Creek’s Malachi Melton, Egg Harbor Township’s Lauren Princz and Holy Spirit’s Ahmad Brown also won county titles. JSZ’s Mike Frankel has the highlights from Buena:
Sahmir Jones paces Pleasantville into South Jersey Group 2 Semis
The high school basketball state playoffs continued on Wednesday. JSZ’s Mike Frankel brings us highlights from the South Jersey Group 2 bracket and a huge night for Pleasantville’s Sahmir Jones (3) Pleasantville 80 (6) Cinnaminson 68 – South Jersey Group 2 Quarterfinals Sahmir Jones dropped a season high 29 points to pace the Greyhounds to the South Jersey Group 2 Semifinals and a showdown with 2nd seed Camden. JSZ’s Mike Frankel has the highlights from Wednesday night: Jersey Sports Zone’s coverage of Cinnaminson is made possible thanks to the support of NJM Insurance
Watch JSZ 2.22 Basketball Highlights
There’s always so much on the line this time of the season and JSZ is there to bring you the action. Highlights from seven county/state tournament games are on the way, including: Blair’s storybook season finale win against St. Benedict’s, Ranney’s continuous roll through the Shore Conference along with finding their SCT finale opponent, both Trenton Catholic squads adding some more hardware to the trophy case and the two semifinal showdowns from the Cape Atlantic League. Enjoy! Blair Academy 86 St. Benedict’s Prep 64 – Prep A Championship After missing a potential game-tying free throw in last year’s title game, Blair’s Jaylen Blakes got his redemption on St. Benedict’s Prep via a game-high 27 points as he captained the Buccaneers to their fourth prep title in school history. This season also marks the first in school history that Blair won both the Mid-Atlantic Prep League (MAPL) and state prep title in the same year. JSZ’s Jay Cook has all the action from Blairstown: (2) Trenton Catholic 62 (1) Trenton 57 – Boys Mercer County Championship After falling in the Mercer County Tournament Championship last year Trenton Catholic reclaimed their spot on the thrown with a 62-57 win over top seeded Trenton. The Iron Mike’s led by Butler University commit Khalif Battle were able to hold off an expositive Trenton offense to capture their seventh MCT Title. Battle finished with 25 points to win MVP honors. JSZ’s Nery Rodriguez has the highlights: Sponsor! Thank you to Princeton Orthopaedic Associates for sponsoring both our Trenton Catholic and Trenton coverage! (1) Trenton Catholic 64 (2) Pennington 45 – Girls Mercer County Championship Top seed Trenton Catholic won their second consecutive Mercer County Tournament Championship with a 64-45 victory over second seed Pennington. The Lady Mike’s were led by MVP Gianna Boulden-Hernandez who had 14 points in the MCT Final. JSZ’s Nery Rodriguez has the highlights: Sponsor! Thank you to Princeton Orthopaedic Associates for sponsoring both our TrentonC Catholic and Pennington coverage! Ranney 78 Freehold Township 50 – Shore Conference Tournament Semifinals Bryan Antoine scored 20 points to lead four Panthers in double figures as Ranney picked up win #23 and a spot in the SCT finals for a third straight year. Ranney opened the game with a 10-0 run and never looked back. JSZ has the highlights from RJW Barnabas Arena in Toms River: Manasquan 70 CBA 64 – Shore Conference Tournament Semifinals Alex Galvan scored 21 and freshman Ben Roy delivered a career high 17 points to give the Warriors their 25th win and a date with Ranney in the SCT finals on Saturday at Monmouth University. Manasquan raced out to a 23-9 first quarter lead and built the advantage to 42-21 at the half. CBA mounted a big comeback and would get as close as seven in the 4th quarter, but Galvan had 10 of his 21 in the final eight minutes to give Squan a semifinal win. JSZ has the highlights and post-game reaction from Toms River: Wildwood Catholic 65 Pleasantville 49 – Cape Atlantic League Semifinals Jahlil White led Wildwood Catholic with 18 points and Taj Thweatt chipped in with 14 points and seven rebounds to propel Wildwood Catholic into the Cape Atlantic League tournament finals. The Crusaders will look to defend their CAL title Saturday afternoon against St. Augustine Prep. JSZ’s Mike Frankel has highlights from the semifinal win here: St. Augustine 72 Ocean City 65 – Cape Atlantic League Semifinals St. Augustine Prep’s Charles Solomon stuffed the stat sheet Thursday night as he accumulated 19 points and 10 rebounds in a CAL semifinal win against Ocean City. The Hermits are 10-time CAL champs and will look to bring the title back home Saturday when the battle top-seeded Wildwood Catholic. JSZ’s Mike Frankel has the highlights:
Watch Saturday 1.12 JSZ Hoops Highlights
Jersey Sports Zone is thrilled to bring you exciting Saturday matchups from across the Garden State. We’ve got seven games of action from around the state including: Christian Brothers vs. Gill St. Bernard’s, Middletown North vs. Rumson- Fair Haven Ranney vs. Bergen Catholic and more! Ranney 56 Bergen Catholic 55 – Hoop Group Boardwalk Showcase Bryan Antoine and Scottie Lewis combined to score 43 points in Ranney’s nail-biting, last-second win Saturday night against Bergen Catholic. Ranney freshman Elijah Perkins also provided a much-needed spark in the second half to put the Panthers in a position to win. Bergen Catholic’s Matt Zona led the Crusaders in scoring with 16 points. JSZ’s Jay Cook has the highlights from Lincroft: Sponsor Shoutout! Jersey Sports Zone’s coverage of all Bergen Catholic athletics is brought to you by Equinox Fitness Clubs. Notre Dame 55 Mater Dei Prep 53 Notre picked up their third win in a row thanks to a 55-53 overtime victory over Mater Dei Prep. The Irish trailed after the first quarter but were able to take the lead all the way untill the final minute of the fourth quarter when Mater Dei tied the game to go to overtime. After a free throw tied the game with three seconds remaining it looked as though we would go to double OT, but instead Justin Yu scored the final basket to secure a thrilling win for Notre Dame. JSZ’s Nery Rodriguez has the highlights: Sponsor! Thank you to Princeton Orthopaedic Associates for sponsoring our Notre Dame coverage! Rumson-Fair Haven 64 Middletown North 63 (OT) – Hoop Group Boardwalk Showcase Jackson McCarthy scored the final five points of the game and grabbed a rebound that drew a foul with one second left that resulted in the game winning free throw as RFH railled from 6 points down in OT in a thriller. Freshman Geoff Schroeder had 25 of his career-high 30 points in the second half and overtime and Ian O’Connor scored his 1000th career point on the way to 17 points. Rob Higgins led Middletown North with 26 points. JSZ has all the twists and turns from a thriller in Lincroft! Jersey Sports Zone’s coverage of Rumson-Fair Haven is brought to you by Gold Coast Cadilliac. Thanks for their support – they are the reason we can bring you thrilling games like RFH and Middletown North! Gill St. Bernard’s 55 CBA 47 – Hoop Group Boardwalk Showcase Paul Mulcahy had 20 points, 8 rebounds and 8 assists as the Blue Knights moved to 11-1 on the season. Zach Martini added 14 points and 8 rebounds in the win while freshman Ryan Mabrey paced the Colts with 14 points and senior Josh Cohen added 11 points and 13 rebounds. JSZ has the highlights and post-game reaction from Brookdale Community College: Red Bank Catholic 59 Middletown South 43 – Hoop Group Boardwalk Showcase Red Bank Catholic’s Kevin Bauman dropped a season-high 15 points along with 12 rebounds to pace the Caseys to their ninth-straight win this season. Bauman took home game MVP honors and also got help from Charlie Gordinier (13 points) and MJ Wright (11 points). JSZ’s Jay Cook has all the highlights from Lincroft: Double Sponsor Shoutout! Jersey Sports Zone is driven by our loyal sponsors. Let’s give a huge shoutout to Playa Bowls of Red Bank (RBC) and Monmouth Building Center (Middletown South) for sponsoring our coverage of this game! Elizabeth 71 Pleasantville 57 – Shoot Down Cancer Classic Jordan Price and DJ Watkins score 26 points each to get the Minutemen to 10-0 on the season. SNJ Today’s Mike Frankel has the highlights from the Shoot Down Cancer Classic at St. Augustine Prep: Paul VI 59 Haddonfield 52 – Shoot Down Cancer Classic Wisler Sanon led three Paul VI players in double digits with 20 to hand Haddonfield its first loss of the season. SNJ Today’s Mike Frankel has the highlights from South Jersey: Jersey Sports Zone’s coverage of Haddonfield is brought to you by NJM Insurance
Top NJ Football Recruits Put Pen to Paper
Congratulations to the dozens of New Jersey high school football players who inked their National Letters of Intent Wednesday morning. Jersey Sports Zone has coverage from the St. Joe’s (Mont.) and Newark Central signing days as their top recruits make their college choices official. State Champs Grieco, Cross III Highlight SJR Signing Day Two of New Jersey’s most feared defensive players have made their college choices. Both JSZ All-Zone team members, defensive back Connor Grieco officially signed with Boston College and defensive lineman Howard Cross III will join Notre Dame. Grieco was one of the highest ranked uncommitted recruits coming into this week after decommitting from Rutgers mid-season. JSZ’s Jay Cook has the story on the eight SJR signees: Central High School’s Mohammad Kamara Chooses Temple University Newark’s Mohammad Kamara made his decision public and official on National Signing Day at Central High School in front of his friends, family members, teammates and coaches. The Top 50 Linebacker was between Rutgers and Temple. However, Kamara signed with Temple University, and will further his athletic and academic career in Philadelphia next fall. JSZ’s Madison Bess was there to watch him sign his name on paper: Four Pleasantville Greyhounds Sign Meanwhile at Pleasantville High, four Greyhounds football players signed Division I letters of intent. Three of the four will play football, with one heading to track and field in college. Mohamed Toure is part of Rutgers Signing Day Class. SNJ Today’s Mike Frankel has more from South Jersey:
Somerville’s Dabney wins 2018 JSZ Zoneman, top players honored in Woodbridge
The 2018 Jersey Sports Zone banquet celebrated a stellar season on the gridiron in the Garden State. The APA Hotel in Woodbridge honored the best of the best from every part of the state and culminated with our version of the Heisman. Watch all the videos from a special night to honor the newest members of the JSZ All-Zone fraternity! Somerville QB Jalahn Dabney is your 2018 Zoneman Winner After a stellar senior year with Somerville, a majority of coaches and credentialed media from around the state selected Jalahn Dabney as the 2018 Zoneman Trophy winner. Dabney amassed 3,444 all-purpose yards and 55 touchdowns for the Pioneers this season. JSZ’s Jay Cook has the interview with Dabney along with other players selected to JSZ’s All-Zone team. Zoneman Preshow Before the Zoneman banquet action kicks off check out our pre-show interviews with JSZ’s Nery Rodriguez: NJM’s Colin Dansberry with JSZ All-Zone quarterback Jay Foley of Haddonfield High School Jersey Sports Zone’s Zoneman Trophy was presented by NJM Insurance. Thanks to their support of South Jersey high school sports all year long! 2018 JSZ Zoneman Balloting With over 50 high school coaches around the state and more than 20 statewide media members, the ballots were cast just like the Heisman. 3 points or 1st place, 2 points for 2nd and 1 point for third. Name High School 1st 2nd 3rd Total Jalahn DabneySomerville188474 Antonio AlfanoColonia86440 Nick KargmanWoodrow Wilson641036 Jada ByersSt. Joe-Hammonton74231 Rahmir JohnsonBergen Catholic62426 Steve LubischerRed Bank Catholic44626 Taquan RobersonDePaul Catholic36122 Jalen BergerDon Bosco Prep24519 Juwon JacksonPiscataway25218 Ronnie HickmanDePaul Catholic33217 John OlmsteadSt. Joe-Metucehn32316 Jasiah PurdieHasbrouck Heights30110 Brian UgwuHillside1218 Jermaine CorbettLong Branch2006 Zoneman Trophy Balloting Committee Thanks to everyone from around the state who was part of the Zoneman process JSZ Staff: Rich Chrampanis, Nery Rodriguez, Courtney DuPont, Jay Cook, Bryan DeNovellis, Mike Frankel Statewide Media: Shawn Brown (Rivals), Kevin Minnick (NJ.com), Joe Zedalis (NJ.com), Pat Lanni (NJ.com), JJ Conrad (NJ.Com), Todderick Hunt (NJ.com), Simeon Pincus (My Central Jersey), Chris Melvin (Asbury Park Press), Mike Kinney (NJ.com), Bob Badders (Shore Sports Network), GMC Gridiron, Mark Trible (Courier-Post), McCarthy Report, Brian Carr (North Jersey.com), Ryan Patti (Rivals.com), Coaches: Paramus Catholic, Randolph, Colonia, Hillside, Bridgewater-Raritan, North Hunterdon, Bergen Catholic, Allentown, West Deptford, DePaul Catholic, Holmdel, Keansburg, Rumson-Fair Haven, Seton Hall Prep, Ramapo, Red Bank Regional, Brick Memorial, Freehold Boro, Irvington, Red Bank Catholic, Toms River North, Manalapan, Westfield, Phillipsburg, Bernards, Hillsborough, Somerville, Hunterdon Central, Rutherford, Trenton, Delaware Valley, Buena, Butler, High Point, Matawan, Penns Grove, South River, Salem, AL Johnson, Willingboro, Nottingham, Haddonfield, West Orange, Piscataway, Lincoln, Notre Dame, Lenape, Sayreville, Brick Township, Pitman In case you missed it, watch JSZ’s profile of our six Zoneman Finalists: Meet The 2018 Zoneman Trophy Finalists Antonio Alfano, Colonia Defensive Lineman Alfano has been the consensus top-ranked 2019 football recruit all season long and there’s good reason why. He is one of five New Jersey players selected to play in the 2019 All-American Bowl and is committed to play for Nick Saban’s Alabama Crimson Tide. Alfano dominated his competition in the Greater Middlesex Conference with 79 tackles and 10 sacks this season, along with a staggering 28 tackles for losses. JSZ’s Jay Cook gives you the inside-look at what makes Alfano such a highly-touted prospect: Jada Byers, St. Joseph (Hamm.) Running Back Byers was as electric as they come in the Garden State during his junior campaign. He looked like he was shot out of a cannon with the ball in his hands, rushing for 1,741 yards and 29 touchdowns on the season, all while helping power his St. Joe’s Wildcats to yet another Non-Public Group 2 championship. JSZ’s Nery Rodriguez takes you down to Hammonton for a behind-the-scenes look at South Jersey’s most electrifying runner: Jalahn Dabney, Somerville Quarterback Dabney took over the starting quarterback job in Somerville at the end of the 2017 season and showcased his dynamic playmaking ability well throughout 2018. He compiled 3,444 yards from scrimmage this season and reached the end-zone 56 times to lead one of New Jersey’s most dangerous offenses. JSZ’s Courtney DuPont tells us what makes this dual-threat quarterback tick: Nick Kargman, Woodrow Wilson Quarterback Kargman will graduate from Woodrow Wilson with plenty of state records compiled during his senior season. The decorated South Jersey passer broke the state record single season passing mark with 3,963 yards and his 41 passing scores rank atop the state lists, as well. But what’s even more impressive is Kargman’s character off the field, as it’s made him an important part of the Woodrow Wilson community. JSZ’s Nery Rodriguez tells us what makes Kargman so special: Rahmir Johnson, Bergen Catholic Running Back Johnson became the first Bergen Catholic rusher to break the 1,000-yard mark since 2008, a true testament to the level of competition that the Crusaders face on a week-to-week basis. After teammate Josh McKenzie went down with a torn ACL, Johnson assumed the full-time starting role and showcased his elite speed and craftiness all season long. He closed 2018 with 1,334 yards and 11 rushing scores. JSZ’s Jay Cook has the story about this humble teammate and Nebraska commit: Steve Lubischer, Red Bank Catholic Quarterback Intelligence and athleticism is the blend of characteristics that has made Lubischer one of New Jersey’s most talented signal callers. At Red Bank Catholic, Lubischer blossomed into a premier dual-threat passer who had the ability to break the game on any down. JSZ’s chief operating officer Rich Chrampanis followed Lubischer’s trajectory all season long and tells us why this Boston College commit is so special: Other Top Vote-Getters Only the top-six vote-getters are on our Zoneman podium, but there were other plenty of players around the Garden State who had great seasons and garnered votes from coaches and media around the state. Those players were: 7th Place: Taquan Roberson, DePaul Catholic quarterback: Roberson, a Penn State commit, closed out his senior season in masterful fashion for the Spartans. He threw 29 touchdowns for 2,432 yards and will go down as one of the most decorated quarterbacks to play in New Jersey. 8th Place: Jalen Berger, Don Bosco Prep running back: Berger led one of New Jersey’s most talented backfields at Don Bosco Prep by displaying elite patience and explosiveness. Only a junior, he holds offers from top-tier Power 5 college football programs and has plenty more in the tank for his senior year. 9th Place: Juwon Jackson, Piscataway running back: Jackson was a main reason why Piscataway reached a 13-0 record and won both a sectional title and a newly-minted “Bowl Game” at MetLife Stadium. He rushed for 1,898 yards and 31 touchdowns on the season. 10th Place: Ronnie Hickman, DePaul Catholic wide receiver/defensive back: Hickman was arguably the most dangerous two-way player in New Jersey. Committed to Ohio State, Hickman was one of five New Jersey football players selected to the 2019 All-American Bowl. His senior season was unfortunately cut short due to a torn ACL late in the year. Josh Henderson wins JSZ 2018 Prep Player of the Year Hun running back and University of North Carolina commit Josh Henderson was named JSZ’s 2018 Prep Player of the Year. Henderson accepted his award during JSZ’s 2nd annual All-Zone football banquet in Woodbridge. Watch Courtney DuPont’s story on the future Tar Heel: Jersey Sports Zone’s Prep Player of the Year was presented by Princeton Orthopaedic Associates Meet the 2018 JSZ All-Zone Team We will be posting our highlight videos of every player honored throughout the next day – check back to click on the links below and see our highlights from our 2018 JSZ All-Zoners! QuarterbackRunning BackWide ReceiverTight EndOffensive LineZoneman Finalists Micahel Alaimo, St. Joe-MontvaleJean Alvarez, Union CityAyir Asante, St. Peter's PrepKevin Bauman, Red Bank CatholicKevin Cerruti, Long BranchJalahn Dabney, Somerville JC Collins, WillamstownJalen Berger, Don Bosco PrepMax Baker, RamapoJason Collier, West DeptfordBryan Felter, Bergen CatholicAntonio Alfano, Colonia Jay Foley, HaddonfieldAidan Borguet, DelseaGarrett Cody, Bergen CatholicDylan Deveney, HunJermaine Donaldson, EasternNick Kargman, Woodrow Wilson Danny Grozozski, Burlington TownshipJermaine Corbett, Long BranchJohn Guaimano, Cedar GroveTyler Devera, Bergen CatholicCJ Hanson, Saint John VianneyJada Byers, St. Joe-Hammonton Maasai Maynor, St. Peter's PrepGBJ George, LindenJaaron Hayek, Wayne HillsChristian Mahogoney, Paramus CatholicRahmir Johnson, Bergen Catholic Rob McCoy, Mater Dei PrepJoe Green, PhillipsburgConnor Holmes, SayrevilleSean Morris, St. Joe-HammontonSteve Lubischer, Red Bank Catholic Taquan Roberson, DePaul CatholicMalik Ingram, Mater Dei PrepMarlyn Johnson, PeddieJohn Olmstead, St. Joe-Metuchen Tom Sharkey, Wayne HillsJuwon Jackson, PiscatawayStanley King, Woodrow Wilson Bence Polgar, Wayne Hills Jack Stagaard, PhillipsburgMax Jackson, SummitJayvin Little, Timber CreekBlerim Rustemi, DePaul Catholic AJ Wingfield, RamapoJacob Mafaro, Kittatinny
Watch JSZ Playoff Football Highlights from 11.9
It’s sectional semifinal Friday in New Jersey and the Jersey Sports Zone team braves the elements to bring you action all over the state. We’ve got Irvington’s double-overtime thriller at Randolph, the Lenape/Rancocas Valley rematch, a sensational performance from Brick Township’s Jimmy Leblo at Middletown South, a Jean Alvarez outburst against Union and much more. We’ll be posting our highlights throughout the night! Irvington 20 Randolph 17 | North 2 Group 4 Semifinals After trailing Randolph 17-3 at halftime in the North 2 Group 4 Sectional Semifinal, the Irvington Blue Knights came out the other end with a victory. The Knights stepped up offensively in the second half and dominated defensively during both overtimes. Check out full highlights of this exciting game now: Union City 46 Union 6 | North 2 Group 5 Semifinals Union City’s Jean Alvarez exploded for a season-high 195 yards along with four touchdowns to pace the Soaring Eagles with a dominant win at “The Roof” at Roosevelt Stadium. Joel Jimenez and Devin Gonzalez also tallied touchdown in the win. JSZ’s Jay Cook has the highlights from Union City: North Brunswick 30 Edison 21 – Central Jersey Group 5 Semifinals Myles Bailey ran for 168 yards and three touchdowns (all three scores in the second half) and had a critical interception late in the first half to set up the go ahead field goal as the Raiders reach the sectional finals for the first time since 1979. JSZ has the highlights from an exciting game at rainy North Brunswick: Brick Township 42 Middletown South 14 | Central Jersey Group 4 Semifinals Jimmy Leblo had five touchdowns in the first 15 minutes of the game in a sensational performance as the Green Dragons advance to the Central Jersey Group 4 finals thanks to a dominating effort in Middletown. Leblo had four TD runs and a TD catch and the Green Dragons defense produced three first-half turnovers to race out to a 35-0 halftime lead. JSZ has the highlights from the Leblo Show on a rainy night in Monmouth County: Jersey Sports Zone’s coverage of Middletown South is made possible by Monmouth Building Center in Shrewsbury Rancocas Valley 28 Lenape 7 | South Jersey Group 5 Semifinal One of the biggest rivalries in Burlington County saw the intensity dialed up even more as Lenape and Rancocas Valley squared up in a rematch of last year’s State Final. After falling in the game last year to Lenape, the Red Devils scored early thanks to quarterback Bryce Mangene and receiver Danny Kondras. Kondras would have three touchdowns in the semifinal as Rancocas Valley sits in the same position as last year with a chance to win the South Jersey Group 5 Championship. JSZ’s Nery Rodriguez has the highlights: Rutherford 26 Mountain Lakes 21 – North 2 Group 2 Semifinals Abellany Mendez had three TD runs and a jump pass TD to account for all of the Bulldogs offense as the top seed raced out to a 26-0 lead and held off a fierce comeback attempt by the herd. JSZ has the highlights and Madison Bess has post-game reaction from Rutherford: Haddonfield 28 Pleasantville 6 | South Jersey Group 2 Semifinals The Haddons roared in the second half behind Davis Smith’s touchdown grab and a pick-six to lock up a win in the South Jersey Group 2 semifinals. Haddonfield is going back to the sectional title game for a second year in a row. JSZ’s Mike Frankel has the highlights: Sponsor Shoutout! Thanks to NJM Insurance, Jersey Sports Zone is able to bring you great highlights of Haddonfield football. Woodrow Wilson 42 Delsea 14 | South Jersey Group 3 Semifinals Following two tough losses to Delsea in the last year, Woodrow Wilson turned back around Friday and returned the favor. The Tigers exploded for a six-touchdown performance behind the wheels of Muheem McCargo as they advance through the South Jersey bracket. JSZ’s Mike Frankel has all the highlights, courtesy of SNJ Today: Sponsor Shoutout! Jersey Sports Zone’s coverage of the Delsea Crusaders is proudly brought to you by NJM Insurance. Shabazz 49 Cedar Grove 6 | North 2 Group 1 Semifinals The Shabazz defense produced a safety and two touchdowns in the first half as the Bulldogs avenged a 22-19 regular season defeat against Cedar Grove to advance to the North 2 Group 1 championship. Shabazz will host Hasbrouck Heights next week in the championship game. JSZ has the highlights from Newark:
Top Performers up for Nery’s Week 6 WJFL Game Ball
Each week, JSZ’s Nery Rodriguez posts ten nominees from outstanding performances in the WJFL. Voting is open now through Tuesday at 3:00 pm. The winner of the poll will get a JSZ Game Ball presented during a mid-week practice with his teammates. Take Our Poll Last Week’s Game Ball Winner: Coaches: You can nominate your top performer every week. Just drop a line to nery@jerseysportszone.com no later than Saturday evening and we’ll nominate your player. Welcome to Jersey Sports Zone! After three years on the Jersey Shore, we’ve expanded our coverage to every part of the Garden State. We are excited to bring you high definition highlights and features of high school sports all year long.
Watch Pleasantville 29 Schalick 16 highlights
Pleasantville 29 Schalick 16- week 4 Welcome to Jersey Sports Zone! After three years on the Jersey Shore, we’ve expanded our coverage to every part of the Garden State. We are excited to bring you high definition highlights and features of high school sports all year long.
Watch JSZ’s Friday Week 4 Highlights Show
A double-overtime thriller, a state championship rematch, big hits and another batch of tremendous highlights. Jersey Sports Zone has it all with 13 games of action in our Friday Week 4 Highlights Show: Click above to watch highlights from the following games: Saint Peter’s Prep 23 Paramus Catholic 14: Jayson + Justin Ademilola combine for 5 sacks Brick Memorial 22 Sayreville 21 (2OT) – Blaine Netterman game winning 2 point conversion in double OT Paul VI 27 Notre Dame 21 – Jamir Garland 15 carries, 165 yards Saint John Vianney 42 Brick Township 0 – Josiah Walker 12 carries, 125 yards, 2 TD’s – LB Johnny Buchanan commits to Delaware Red Bank Catholic 49 Colonia 12 – Zack Bair 4 TD’s including 100-yard kickoff return Point Pleasant Boro 13 Monmouth Regional 3 – James Fara and Brandon Cipriano TD runs Long Branch 21 Wall 14 – Jermaine Corbett 128 yards rushing, 2 TD’s Raritan 28 Donovan Catholic 9 – PJ Buccine 2 TD runs, James Vanmeerbeke 2 TD passes Linden 42 Elizabeth 21 – BJ George 306 yards rushing, 4 TD’s Ridge 49 Plainfield 14 – Dave Stieglitz 130 yards of total offense, 2 TD’s Allentown 55 Hopewell Valley 31 – Dan Merkel 373 passing yards, 5 TD passes – Sadik Queen 4 TD catches Vineland 60 Cumberland 6 – Nihym Anderson 5 TD’s, 2 sacks and fumble recovery Pleasantville 29 Schalick 16 – Sahmir Jones – 13 carries, 179 yards, 2 TD’s Missed our Thursday Highlights Show? Check out 8 games to get our Week 4 coverage started including a big performance by the Rumson-Fair Haven defense, an offensive outburst by Manalapan and the Phillipsburg Stateliners reaching 4-0 Jersey Sports Zone’s High School Football Coverage Jersey Sports Zone is excited to cover the entire state of New Jersey with our high definition highlights and features. We will post full highlight shows with Friday and Saturday high school football action. Don’t forget you can download our App for free from the App Store or Google Play and get all of our videos right on your smartphone. On Sunday, we will nominate the top plays captured by our cameras for the JSZ Football Play of the Week and we’ll honor top performers with nominations for our Game Balls. We ask you to cast your vote from Sunday morning through Tuesday afternoon. Our Play of the Week winners will be honored at our statewide football banquet in December. Our Game Ball winners will have JSZ cameras come to practice mid-week to hand out a pigskin in front of the entire team. Coming up on Friday we are scheduled to show 13 games of action including: Paramus Catholic at Saint Peter’s Prep, Brick Township at Saint John Vianney, Elizabeth at Linden, Brick Memorial at Sayreville Coaches: Send your Game Ball nominees by Saturday night to be considered: rich@jerseysportszone.com (Shore), nery@jerseysportszone.com (WJFL), courtney@jerseysportszone.com (Mid State 38), alex@jerseysportszone.com (GMC and Big North) Welcome to Jersey Sports Zone! After three years on the Jersey Shore, we’ve expanded our coverage to every part of the Garden State. We are excited to bring you high definition highlights and features of high school sports all year long.
