Bernards High football coach Joe Milde told me Friday night that he's stepping down as head coach of the Mountaineers after eight years. His team made the sectional playoffs three times, including this past year when the Mountaineers qualified as a North 2 Group II school.
Milde said he will be replaced by defensive coordinator John Simoneau, who has been the team's defensive coordinator.
Milde, who has had one of the longest tenure of any Mountaineer football coach in their long history, has been affiliated with the team for 15 years -- seven as an assistant. He will continue to coach girls basketball and golf.
Friday, November 30, 2007
Thursday, November 29, 2007
A meeting to get pumped by
Stopped by Hunterdon Central Thursday afternoon to take a picture of Alexander Lum, the versatile Red Devil junior slot back.
Central coach Matt Perotti had his team come in at 5 p.m. to practice, so they could get familiar with the time they will be playing Piscatawayat Rutgers Stadium Saturday.
"Usually, the kids are coming down at this point from our practice," Perotti said. "So we're going to come in at 5 today and tomorrow."
The Red Devils went over special teams in a short practice. Defensive coordinator Tom Bill and Perotti spoke before the Red Devils went outside.
At one point, Perotti quoted Sun Tzu, author of "The Art of War", one of the oldest books on military strategy in the world. Sun Tzu was the first to recognize the importance of positioning in strategy and that position is affected both by objective.
One of Tzu's quotations is: "Therefore one hundred victories in one hundred battles is not the most skillful. Seizing the enemy without fighting is the most skillful."
That wasn't the one Perotti used.
Central coach Matt Perotti had his team come in at 5 p.m. to practice, so they could get familiar with the time they will be playing Piscatawayat Rutgers Stadium Saturday.
"Usually, the kids are coming down at this point from our practice," Perotti said. "So we're going to come in at 5 today and tomorrow."
The Red Devils went over special teams in a short practice. Defensive coordinator Tom Bill and Perotti spoke before the Red Devils went outside.
At one point, Perotti quoted Sun Tzu, author of "The Art of War", one of the oldest books on military strategy in the world. Sun Tzu was the first to recognize the importance of positioning in strategy and that position is affected both by objective.
One of Tzu's quotations is: "Therefore one hundred victories in one hundred battles is not the most skillful. Seizing the enemy without fighting is the most skillful."
That wasn't the one Perotti used.
Saturday, November 24, 2007
Turkey follow
Some thoughts from the Thanksgiving Day and Thanksgiving Day eve games before going off into the sectional final week.
North Plainfield looked like a team headed for a sectional title game -- not South Plainfield. The Tigers looked un-interested for most of their 39-6 loss to North Plainfield at Krausche Field Thursday. The Canucks played like a championship team from the time senior Devon Williams returned the game's opening kickoff 91 yards to set up a short touchdown pass from senior quarterback Bilal Jones to junior wideout Julian Frazier. North Plainfield junior tackle Ty Chandler, who had a 15-yard sack of Tiger quarterback Mike Burton, is going to be a somebody to watch next year.
Hopefully, South Plainfield gets very interested for its North 2 Group III title game with West Side next Sunday morning at Giants Stadium.
I was told by some North Plainfield fans that there was some vandalizing done around the high school by Tiger fans. My suggestion to South Plainfield: forget the gamesmanship and get into this series. North Plainfield holds a 6-0 lead since the series was restored in 2002.
Watchung Hills won its last three games to finish 5-5. The Warriors, who open with a night game against Plainfield next year (Sept. 12), had a great night running the ball against Ridge.
Heard some interesting scheduling news for 2008. One is that two holiday games will be moved into the regular season -- Montgomery-Hillsborough will be moved to the ninth week and Watchung Hills-Ridge will also be moved. Both of those games will be played Nov. 7.
Since there will be some adjustments in the Skyland Conference divisions next year -- Ridge will play Somerville; Somerville will also play Rahway and North Warren. Bernards will drop from the Skyland Raritan to the Skyland Valley while North Warren will move up to the Raritan.
I was 7-2 in the holiday games. I picked Ridge over Watchung Hills. Watchung Hills rolled. I picked South Plainfield to beat North Plainfield. North Plainfield rolled. That would be two terrible picks.
Also, I picked Delaware Valley to romp past South Hunterdon 28-0. Well, Del Val won, but the Eagles played a great game, falling 14-7.
North Plainfield looked like a team headed for a sectional title game -- not South Plainfield. The Tigers looked un-interested for most of their 39-6 loss to North Plainfield at Krausche Field Thursday. The Canucks played like a championship team from the time senior Devon Williams returned the game's opening kickoff 91 yards to set up a short touchdown pass from senior quarterback Bilal Jones to junior wideout Julian Frazier. North Plainfield junior tackle Ty Chandler, who had a 15-yard sack of Tiger quarterback Mike Burton, is going to be a somebody to watch next year.
Hopefully, South Plainfield gets very interested for its North 2 Group III title game with West Side next Sunday morning at Giants Stadium.
I was told by some North Plainfield fans that there was some vandalizing done around the high school by Tiger fans. My suggestion to South Plainfield: forget the gamesmanship and get into this series. North Plainfield holds a 6-0 lead since the series was restored in 2002.
Watchung Hills won its last three games to finish 5-5. The Warriors, who open with a night game against Plainfield next year (Sept. 12), had a great night running the ball against Ridge.
Heard some interesting scheduling news for 2008. One is that two holiday games will be moved into the regular season -- Montgomery-Hillsborough will be moved to the ninth week and Watchung Hills-Ridge will also be moved. Both of those games will be played Nov. 7.
Since there will be some adjustments in the Skyland Conference divisions next year -- Ridge will play Somerville; Somerville will also play Rahway and North Warren. Bernards will drop from the Skyland Raritan to the Skyland Valley while North Warren will move up to the Raritan.
I was 7-2 in the holiday games. I picked Ridge over Watchung Hills. Watchung Hills rolled. I picked South Plainfield to beat North Plainfield. North Plainfield rolled. That would be two terrible picks.
Also, I picked Delaware Valley to romp past South Hunterdon 28-0. Well, Del Val won, but the Eagles played a great game, falling 14-7.
Back for the holiday
Championship week is ahead and we'll all be busy.
I'll try to update the blog with stuff you might not get in the paper.
Immaculata goes for its 24th straight win and its second straight Non-Public Group III title against Holy Spirit Saturday at 2 p.m. at Giants Stadium.
Hunterdon Central goes for its second straight sectional title -- this time as a North 2 Group IV school Saturday afternoon at 5 p.m. at Rutgers againt Piscataway, which is hoping to regain a title. The Chiefs last won in 2004 at Rutgers. Central won as a Central IV school last year.
South Plainfield gets to play at Giants Stadium a week from Sunday at 11 a.m. in the North 2 Group III title game against West Side. The Tigers have been in a sectional title game twice before without a win.
I'll try to update the blog with stuff you might not get in the paper.
Immaculata goes for its 24th straight win and its second straight Non-Public Group III title against Holy Spirit Saturday at 2 p.m. at Giants Stadium.
Hunterdon Central goes for its second straight sectional title -- this time as a North 2 Group IV school Saturday afternoon at 5 p.m. at Rutgers againt Piscataway, which is hoping to regain a title. The Chiefs last won in 2004 at Rutgers. Central won as a Central IV school last year.
South Plainfield gets to play at Giants Stadium a week from Sunday at 11 a.m. in the North 2 Group III title game against West Side. The Tigers have been in a sectional title game twice before without a win.
Friday, November 09, 2007
Central rebounds
Hunterdon Central saw another of the state's best junior running backs Friday night, but the outcome of their meeting with Elizabeth's Raymond Graham in a North 2 Group IV quarterfinal was dramatically different than its experience with Immaculata's Theo Riddick last week. Riddick had more than 200 yards and a touchdown in Immaculata's 16-6 win at Brooks Field in Somerville that snapped the Red Devils 11-game winning streak.
Graham, who led Elizabeth to a North 2 Grup IV title last year with a phenominal second half in the 14-9 win against Phillipsburg at Rutgers Stadium in the section final, was limited to 61 yards Friday night. His longest run was 10 yards. Graham is good, very good.
Central won the game 20-0, recording its fourth shutout of the season and blanking Elizabeth for the first time since the last game of the 2003 season, a 6-0 loss to Scotch Plains-Fanwood.
This game was more about Central's defense than anything else. The Red Devils had fumble recoveries from senior linebackers Matt Schenck, Mike Diehl and Tim Irwin and the versatile Derek Goreczny had an interception. Elizabeth's best chance to score came early in the fourth quarter with a first-and-10 from the Red Devil 10. But after a one-yard loss, Schenck recovered a Graham fumble.
Graham, who led Elizabeth to a North 2 Grup IV title last year with a phenominal second half in the 14-9 win against Phillipsburg at Rutgers Stadium in the section final, was limited to 61 yards Friday night. His longest run was 10 yards. Graham is good, very good.
Central won the game 20-0, recording its fourth shutout of the season and blanking Elizabeth for the first time since the last game of the 2003 season, a 6-0 loss to Scotch Plains-Fanwood.
This game was more about Central's defense than anything else. The Red Devils had fumble recoveries from senior linebackers Matt Schenck, Mike Diehl and Tim Irwin and the versatile Derek Goreczny had an interception. Elizabeth's best chance to score came early in the fourth quarter with a first-and-10 from the Red Devil 10. But after a one-yard loss, Schenck recovered a Graham fumble.
Monday, November 05, 2007
Scoring leaders
1. Barry Garrard (Piscataway) 20 touchdown runs for 120 points
2. Chris Jeskie (Bound Brook) 10 rushes, 1 blocked punt return, one reception, 24 PATs for 96 points
3. Anthony Taylor (Scotch Plains-Fanwood) 14 rushes for 84 points
4. Russell Anderson (New Providence) 9 runs, one punt return, one conversion, one reception for 68 points
5.Ted Delia (North Hunterdon) 10 runs, one kickoff for 66 points
5. Mike Little (Middlesex) 11 touchdown runs for 66 points
7. Yahad Cobb (North Plainfield) 8 runs, 14 PATS, one field goal for 65 points
8. Brian Thompson (Franklin) 8 rushes, one reception, one interception, one two-point conversion for 62 points
9. J.T. Tartacoff (Montgomery) 6 touchdown runs, four catches for 60 points
10. Chris Feuer (Bernards) 3 rushes, one kickoff return, one punt return, one conversion four receptions for 56 points
11. Chris Garcia (Montgomery) 9 touchdown receptions for 54 points
11.Deven Baker (Boud Brook) two rushes, one kickoff return, six receptions for 54 points
11. Brian Comerford (Delaware Valley) 8 rushes, one reception for 54 points
11. Derek Goreczny (Hunterdon Central) 7 receptions, one interception return, one punt return for 54 points
11. Theo Riddick (Immaculata) 9 touchdown runs for 54 points
16. Troy Russell (South Plainfield) four touchdown runs, one blocked punt return, one kickoff return, one catch, 10 PATs for 52 points
17, Jim Morrow (Watchung Hills) five touchdown runs, three field goals, 12 PATs for 51 points
18.Ricardo Johnson (Westfield) seven runs, one fumble return for 48 points
18. Brian Rock (Manville) six touchdown runs, one kickoff return, one reception for 48 points
18. Devon Saunders (Montgomery) 7 touchdown runs, one catch for 48 points
19. Scott Mahoney (Governor Livingston) one run, two receptions, 10 PATs, six field goals for 46 points
2. Chris Jeskie (Bound Brook) 10 rushes, 1 blocked punt return, one reception, 24 PATs for 96 points
3. Anthony Taylor (Scotch Plains-Fanwood) 14 rushes for 84 points
4. Russell Anderson (New Providence) 9 runs, one punt return, one conversion, one reception for 68 points
5.Ted Delia (North Hunterdon) 10 runs, one kickoff for 66 points
5. Mike Little (Middlesex) 11 touchdown runs for 66 points
7. Yahad Cobb (North Plainfield) 8 runs, 14 PATS, one field goal for 65 points
8. Brian Thompson (Franklin) 8 rushes, one reception, one interception, one two-point conversion for 62 points
9. J.T. Tartacoff (Montgomery) 6 touchdown runs, four catches for 60 points
10. Chris Feuer (Bernards) 3 rushes, one kickoff return, one punt return, one conversion four receptions for 56 points
11. Chris Garcia (Montgomery) 9 touchdown receptions for 54 points
11.Deven Baker (Boud Brook) two rushes, one kickoff return, six receptions for 54 points
11. Brian Comerford (Delaware Valley) 8 rushes, one reception for 54 points
11. Derek Goreczny (Hunterdon Central) 7 receptions, one interception return, one punt return for 54 points
11. Theo Riddick (Immaculata) 9 touchdown runs for 54 points
16. Troy Russell (South Plainfield) four touchdown runs, one blocked punt return, one kickoff return, one catch, 10 PATs for 52 points
17, Jim Morrow (Watchung Hills) five touchdown runs, three field goals, 12 PATs for 51 points
18.Ricardo Johnson (Westfield) seven runs, one fumble return for 48 points
18. Brian Rock (Manville) six touchdown runs, one kickoff return, one reception for 48 points
18. Devon Saunders (Montgomery) 7 touchdown runs, one catch for 48 points
19. Scott Mahoney (Governor Livingston) one run, two receptions, 10 PATs, six field goals for 46 points
Sunday, November 04, 2007
14
We had the number of schools which had qualified for the state sectional playoffs as 13 today, but we missed one. It's actually 14 -- one No. 1 seed -- Piscataway.
Here's the list:
North 2 Group I
New Providence (4) plays host to Secaucus (5)
North 2 Group II
Bernards (8) plays at Morris Hills (1)
North 2 Group III
South Plainfield (8) plays at Irvington (1)
Scotch Plains-Fanwood (4) plays host to Colonia (5)
North 2 Group IV
Piscataway (1) plays host to Woodbridge (8)
Westfield (4) plays host to Bayonne (5)
Franklin (3) plays host to Phillipsburg (6)
Hunterdon Central (2) plays host to Elizabeth (7)
Central Jersey Group IV
Montgomery (4) plays host to South Brunswick (5)
Central Jersey Group II
Governor Livingston (8) plays host to Holmdel (1)
North Plainfield (4) plays host to Rumson (5)
Delaware Valley (3) plays host to Carteret (6)
Central Group I
Bound Brook (7) plays at Keansburg (2)
Non Public III
Immaculata (2) plays host to DePaul (7)
Here's the list:
North 2 Group I
New Providence (4) plays host to Secaucus (5)
North 2 Group II
Bernards (8) plays at Morris Hills (1)
North 2 Group III
South Plainfield (8) plays at Irvington (1)
Scotch Plains-Fanwood (4) plays host to Colonia (5)
North 2 Group IV
Piscataway (1) plays host to Woodbridge (8)
Westfield (4) plays host to Bayonne (5)
Franklin (3) plays host to Phillipsburg (6)
Hunterdon Central (2) plays host to Elizabeth (7)
Central Jersey Group IV
Montgomery (4) plays host to South Brunswick (5)
Central Jersey Group II
Governor Livingston (8) plays host to Holmdel (1)
North Plainfield (4) plays host to Rumson (5)
Delaware Valley (3) plays host to Carteret (6)
Central Group I
Bound Brook (7) plays at Keansburg (2)
Non Public III
Immaculata (2) plays host to DePaul (7)
Big weekend
Funny scene in the pressbox at Brooks Field Friday night while Immaculata and Hunterdon Central were battling.
Former Immaculata High slugger Jack Cust, now with the Oakland A's, briefly stepped in to say hello, but had to leave since the place was a bit too crowded. Actually, somebody told those not working that they had to clear out. I would say 99.999 percent of the time, nothing is ever said. I don't believe the gentleman who said it, knew who was in the pressbox.
Immaculata's 16-6 win can be looked at a couple of ways.
If you're an Immaculata fan: Theo Riddick was simply too dominant -- he had more than 200 yards, much of them picked up in small, but killer doses behind the Spartan's vaunted offensive line. Also, the Spartan secondary did a terrific job of shutting down the Central passing game. Brad McAdam, Rich Dupras and John Mack had second half picks.
If you're a Central fan: Third and goal from the one in the third quarter, the Red Devils trailing 10-6. A procedure call pushes the Central back to the six. Central doesn't score. Immaculata, however, goes the other way and scores on a Riddick touchdown, 16-6. Also, Central made six turnovers. If it does that again against Elizabeth Friday night in a North 2 Group IV quarterfinal, there will be no semifinal round.
Former Immaculata High slugger Jack Cust, now with the Oakland A's, briefly stepped in to say hello, but had to leave since the place was a bit too crowded. Actually, somebody told those not working that they had to clear out. I would say 99.999 percent of the time, nothing is ever said. I don't believe the gentleman who said it, knew who was in the pressbox.
Immaculata's 16-6 win can be looked at a couple of ways.
If you're an Immaculata fan: Theo Riddick was simply too dominant -- he had more than 200 yards, much of them picked up in small, but killer doses behind the Spartan's vaunted offensive line. Also, the Spartan secondary did a terrific job of shutting down the Central passing game. Brad McAdam, Rich Dupras and John Mack had second half picks.
If you're a Central fan: Third and goal from the one in the third quarter, the Red Devils trailing 10-6. A procedure call pushes the Central back to the six. Central doesn't score. Immaculata, however, goes the other way and scores on a Riddick touchdown, 16-6. Also, Central made six turnovers. If it does that again against Elizabeth Friday night in a North 2 Group IV quarterfinal, there will be no semifinal round.
Sunday, October 28, 2007
BIG WIN FOR SCOTCH PLAINS-FANWOOD!
Because of deadline, this game won't be appearing in Monday's paper:
SCOTCH PLAINS-FANWOOD 42, CRANFORD 20
by By Staff Report
SCOTCH PLAINS … Junior running back Anthony Taylor ran for 237 yards and three touchdowns on 36 carries to lift Scotch Plains-Fanwood to a 42-20 win over Cranford Sunday night.
The win was critical for Scotch Plains-Fanwood's drive to a North 2 Group III playoff berth.
Senior defensive end Keith Baker had 11 tackles and a sack, junior corner Mike Ferrara had seven tackles and junior Marcus Green had seven tackles and a sack.
Scotch Plains-Fanwood (5-2) now will prepare for Westfield (5-2) Saturday afternoon at 2 p.m.
leader>ƒSCOTCH PLAINS-FANWOOD (5-2) 21 14 ƒ0 ƒ7 … 42CRANFORD (4-4) N6 14 ƒ0 ƒ0 … 20SCORINGC - Petrowski 49 pass from Smith (kick failed)SPF - Taylor 1 run (Domanski kick)SPF - Green 31 pass from Chervenyak (Domanski kick)SPF - Baker 21 fumble return (Domanski kick)SPF - Taylor 13 run (Domanski kick)C - Smith 3 run (kick failed)SPF -- Taylor 7 run (Domanski kick)C - Falcon 3 run (Bagniewski kick)SPF - Taylor 1 run (Domanski kick)INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS
RUSHING … SPF - Chervenyak 3-23, Taylor 36-237, Green 4-36, Williams 2-9; C: Smith 10-26, Konieczny 6-51, Petrowski 1-22, Falcon 11-37, Tubelli 3-11.
PASSING … SPF -- Chervenyak 3-7-0-46; C-Smith 7-18-1-147.
RECEIVING … SPF -- Dagastaro 1-40, Mihansky 1-11, Green 1-31; C: Petrowski 6-122, Falcon 1-25.„
SCOTCH PLAINS-FANWOOD 42, CRANFORD 20
by By Staff Report
SCOTCH PLAINS … Junior running back Anthony Taylor ran for 237 yards and three touchdowns on 36 carries to lift Scotch Plains-Fanwood to a 42-20 win over Cranford Sunday night.
The win was critical for Scotch Plains-Fanwood's drive to a North 2 Group III playoff berth.
Senior defensive end Keith Baker had 11 tackles and a sack, junior corner Mike Ferrara had seven tackles and junior Marcus Green had seven tackles and a sack.
Scotch Plains-Fanwood (5-2) now will prepare for Westfield (5-2) Saturday afternoon at 2 p.m.
leader>ƒSCOTCH PLAINS-FANWOOD (5-2) 21 14 ƒ0 ƒ7 … 42CRANFORD (4-4) N6 14 ƒ0 ƒ0 … 20SCORINGC - Petrowski 49 pass from Smith (kick failed)SPF - Taylor 1 run (Domanski kick)SPF - Green 31 pass from Chervenyak (Domanski kick)SPF - Baker 21 fumble return (Domanski kick)SPF - Taylor 13 run (Domanski kick)C - Smith 3 run (kick failed)SPF -- Taylor 7 run (Domanski kick)C - Falcon 3 run (Bagniewski kick)SPF - Taylor 1 run (Domanski kick)INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS
RUSHING … SPF - Chervenyak 3-23, Taylor 36-237, Green 4-36, Williams 2-9; C: Smith 10-26, Konieczny 6-51, Petrowski 1-22, Falcon 11-37, Tubelli 3-11.
PASSING … SPF -- Chervenyak 3-7-0-46; C-Smith 7-18-1-147.
RECEIVING … SPF -- Dagastaro 1-40, Mihansky 1-11, Green 1-31; C: Petrowski 6-122, Falcon 1-25.„
Saturday, October 27, 2007
Former Franklin coach and Middlesex native meets Theo
The rumors were flying Friday that Charlie Weis (Middlesex High '74) and former Franklin coach (1989), now the head coach at the University of Notre Dame was in Somerville Friday. The story was true. Weis stopped by to express his interest in Immaculata star running back Theo Riddick and lineman Mark Brazinski. Weis also stopped by Somerville to see receiver Mike Naples.
"It was great," said Riddick, who later Friday led Immaculata to its 20th straight win, a 23-0 conquest of Voorhees with two touchdown runs. "It's basically an honor. You see him on television and then you get to meet him."
Riddick said it's too early to talk about serious college destinations for him, but he added that it would be interesting to "explore" life outside of New Jersey, but also "it would be nice to be home."
"It was great," said Riddick, who later Friday led Immaculata to its 20th straight win, a 23-0 conquest of Voorhees with two touchdown runs. "It's basically an honor. You see him on television and then you get to meet him."
Riddick said it's too early to talk about serious college destinations for him, but he added that it would be interesting to "explore" life outside of New Jersey, but also "it would be nice to be home."
Friday, October 26, 2007
CENTRAL NOTES
No contest in Bernards Township tonight as unbeaten Hunterdon Central (8-0) breezed past Ridge 50-0 at Lee Field. Ridge had the tempo early as junior quarterback Ryan McGuirl moved his team to the Central 37 on the game's first drive. Ridge kept the momentum when Dan Finn intercepted a Rich Lachner pass.
Ridge was stopped by the Central defense. But lineman Jeff Gakos dropped Anthony Toresco for a 3-yard loss. That was really the last big play for Ridge before the game got out of control.
On the next play, Ridge was penalized five yards for an off-side that moved the ball to the 50. On the next play, Toresco went 50 yards for a touchdown. Central scored on its next three drives of the half, scored again on its first drive of the third quarter and got another score when Derek Goreczny returned a McGuirl pass 27 yards for yet another score.
I had Toresco for 97 yards on 10 carries and junior Jared DeLelello 47 yards on six carries. Goreczny is an outstanding player on defense and also does a great job for Ridge in returning punts. Junior Joe Herzog, Garrett Williamson and Mike Diehl made big defensive plays early for Central.
Immaculata held up its end of the showdown as it beat Voorhees 23-0. So both Central and Immaculata will bring 8-0 records into next Friday's showdown at BROOKS FIELD.
There has been some talk around that Immacualta will once again play Hunterdon Central at Basilone Field in Bridgewater. But that isn't happening, so prepare to get to Brooks early. Parking spaces are a premium.
Ridge was stopped by the Central defense. But lineman Jeff Gakos dropped Anthony Toresco for a 3-yard loss. That was really the last big play for Ridge before the game got out of control.
On the next play, Ridge was penalized five yards for an off-side that moved the ball to the 50. On the next play, Toresco went 50 yards for a touchdown. Central scored on its next three drives of the half, scored again on its first drive of the third quarter and got another score when Derek Goreczny returned a McGuirl pass 27 yards for yet another score.
I had Toresco for 97 yards on 10 carries and junior Jared DeLelello 47 yards on six carries. Goreczny is an outstanding player on defense and also does a great job for Ridge in returning punts. Junior Joe Herzog, Garrett Williamson and Mike Diehl made big defensive plays early for Central.
Immaculata held up its end of the showdown as it beat Voorhees 23-0. So both Central and Immaculata will bring 8-0 records into next Friday's showdown at BROOKS FIELD.
There has been some talk around that Immacualta will once again play Hunterdon Central at Basilone Field in Bridgewater. But that isn't happening, so prepare to get to Brooks early. Parking spaces are a premium.
Friday, October 19, 2007
Terrible Friday night (for yours truly). Immaculata-BR note
4-6 for Friday night. Stench.
I'm not sure what my worst pick was -- there are quite a few choices.
Belvidere losing to North Plainfield at Krausche Field. I'm glad I wasn't there because I would have taken a beating. I took Belvidere to beat North Plainfield 18-0, and I took a big hit. Congratulations to the Canucks, who won it 27-14.
I spoke to a few people after the game, who said they weren't entirely surprised. Bound Brook moved the ball on Belvidere a couple of weeks ago for the majority of the Crusaders' 37-12 loss. I spoke to two coaches NOT CONNECTED with Bound Brook, who said they felt North Plainfield could move the ball on Belvidere, plus stop Belvidere.
I didn't hold that opinion, thus my terrible pick. But North Plainfield looks good to make the Central Jersey Group II playoff field.
That was the worst.
The next lowlight? Hackettstown 10-7 over Somerville. My pick was Somerville 24-12. Close, ugh? I might have to retire. I figured that Hackettstown, which beat Johnson 22-0 two weeks ago, but lost to Bernards 6-0 last Saturday, would be beatable. I'm down on Somerville by the way. I'm picking with my heart and past performance.
The third?
Westfield beats Elizabeth. Tremendous. The Blue Devils were 0-17-1 against the defending North 2, Group IV champions over the last 18 games. The Devils hadn't beaten Elizabeth since 1984. So, what happens? The Blue Devils win 13-7 and pretty much ice up a North 2, Group IV berth.
The fourth?
I took North Hunterdon to beat Watchung Hills 18-13. Reality? Watchung Hills 45-13. Did I say terrible? Watchung Hills ran all over the Lions in the second half. It was 13-13 at half, and the Warriors scored 32 unanswered in the second half.
The Immaculata-Bridgewater-Raritan game has been moved to tonight at 7 p.m. at Basilone Field. The game was scheduled to be played Friday at Brooks Field in Somerville, but the Spartans will march across the highway -- along with their homecoming activities. We will not be covering the game, but look for results of this one in Monday's paper.
I'll blog again sometime Saturday.
I'm not sure what my worst pick was -- there are quite a few choices.
Belvidere losing to North Plainfield at Krausche Field. I'm glad I wasn't there because I would have taken a beating. I took Belvidere to beat North Plainfield 18-0, and I took a big hit. Congratulations to the Canucks, who won it 27-14.
I spoke to a few people after the game, who said they weren't entirely surprised. Bound Brook moved the ball on Belvidere a couple of weeks ago for the majority of the Crusaders' 37-12 loss. I spoke to two coaches NOT CONNECTED with Bound Brook, who said they felt North Plainfield could move the ball on Belvidere, plus stop Belvidere.
I didn't hold that opinion, thus my terrible pick. But North Plainfield looks good to make the Central Jersey Group II playoff field.
That was the worst.
The next lowlight? Hackettstown 10-7 over Somerville. My pick was Somerville 24-12. Close, ugh? I might have to retire. I figured that Hackettstown, which beat Johnson 22-0 two weeks ago, but lost to Bernards 6-0 last Saturday, would be beatable. I'm down on Somerville by the way. I'm picking with my heart and past performance.
The third?
Westfield beats Elizabeth. Tremendous. The Blue Devils were 0-17-1 against the defending North 2, Group IV champions over the last 18 games. The Devils hadn't beaten Elizabeth since 1984. So, what happens? The Blue Devils win 13-7 and pretty much ice up a North 2, Group IV berth.
The fourth?
I took North Hunterdon to beat Watchung Hills 18-13. Reality? Watchung Hills 45-13. Did I say terrible? Watchung Hills ran all over the Lions in the second half. It was 13-13 at half, and the Warriors scored 32 unanswered in the second half.
The Immaculata-Bridgewater-Raritan game has been moved to tonight at 7 p.m. at Basilone Field. The game was scheduled to be played Friday at Brooks Field in Somerville, but the Spartans will march across the highway -- along with their homecoming activities. We will not be covering the game, but look for results of this one in Monday's paper.
I'll blog again sometime Saturday.
Thursday, October 18, 2007
injuries, coaches and those pesky scribes
For the most part, coaches and reporters have a solid relationship. But, as I tell some of the younger folks on our staff -- as long as you write good things about those coaches and their teams, they'll love you -- if not, well -- you know the drill.
Fortunately, 99.9 percent of what we write about high school sports is positive. Makes it easier on us -- but, let me get to the point -- how about coaches' reporting injuries and telling you straight up what really is going on.
Don't hold your breath on getting a straight answer. We understand it. It's been part of the game since the days of Alonzo Stagg and Pop Warner, part of the gamesmanship. We're part of it. But it kind of gets tiring after awhile.
Hunterdon Central coach Matt Perotti and I talk to each other quite a bit during the course of a week. That happens when your team is ranked second in the area.
Matt tried to be as open as he could with me about his injured senior quarterback Rich Lachner. Perotti told me Thursday night that Lachner, who tore ligaments in his right thumb on the last play of the first half in last week's 30-6 whipping of Phillipsburg, will be dressed Friday night -- weather pending -- for the game with Franklin.
Franklin running back Brian Thompson didn't practice this week. I got that much. While Matt told me Lachner is "doubtful," Franklin coach Lou Solomon told me Thompson is "50-50." Will Thompson play? His teammate, senior wideout/defensive back Gavin Roberts, told me that Thompson intends to buckle it up. He suffered a high ankle sprain on the first play of last Saturday's 14-0 win over Warren Hills.
I guess we'll find out Friday night. I think Thompson's absence could affect Franklin a lot more than Lachner. Expect Cole Moore, a junior, to start for Central if Lachner can't go.
Let's hope for a dry weekend. We've been lucky so far.
Fortunately, 99.9 percent of what we write about high school sports is positive. Makes it easier on us -- but, let me get to the point -- how about coaches' reporting injuries and telling you straight up what really is going on.
Don't hold your breath on getting a straight answer. We understand it. It's been part of the game since the days of Alonzo Stagg and Pop Warner, part of the gamesmanship. We're part of it. But it kind of gets tiring after awhile.
Hunterdon Central coach Matt Perotti and I talk to each other quite a bit during the course of a week. That happens when your team is ranked second in the area.
Matt tried to be as open as he could with me about his injured senior quarterback Rich Lachner. Perotti told me Thursday night that Lachner, who tore ligaments in his right thumb on the last play of the first half in last week's 30-6 whipping of Phillipsburg, will be dressed Friday night -- weather pending -- for the game with Franklin.
Franklin running back Brian Thompson didn't practice this week. I got that much. While Matt told me Lachner is "doubtful," Franklin coach Lou Solomon told me Thompson is "50-50." Will Thompson play? His teammate, senior wideout/defensive back Gavin Roberts, told me that Thompson intends to buckle it up. He suffered a high ankle sprain on the first play of last Saturday's 14-0 win over Warren Hills.
I guess we'll find out Friday night. I think Thompson's absence could affect Franklin a lot more than Lachner. Expect Cole Moore, a junior, to start for Central if Lachner can't go.
Let's hope for a dry weekend. We've been lucky so far.
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
Injuries and Central and Franklin
Friday night's Skyland Conference game between Franklin and Hunterdon Central will decide the champion of the East Division. Game time at Stewart Field is 7 p.m.
Phillipsburg had won it the past four years, but has been beaten this year by Franklin and Hunterdon Central.
Central (6-0) and Franklin (4-1) have taken control of the division. Central will win the division with a win. If Franklin wins, the Warriors would have to beat Watchung Hills a week from Saturday to seal it. Central is 4-0 in divisional play; Franklin 3-0.
Two major players in the game are hurt and their status is uncertain.
Central quarterback Richie Lachner tore ligaments in the thumb on his right hand during last Friday's 30-6 rout of Phillipsburg. Hunterdon Central coach Matt Perotti said Tuesday that Lachner has been fitted with a special brace and practiced without pads. His status for Friday's game would be listed as "doubtful."
Franklin senior running back Brian Thompson, who is the motor of the Warriors' offense, is "50-50" to play, according to coach Lou Solomon. Thompson suffered a high ankle sprain in Saturday afternoon's 14-0 win over Warren Hills.
Governor Livingston plays host to Rahway Saturday afternoon. Rahway is coming off a stunning loss at Brearley Friday. The Indians were beaten by Governor Livingston 21-6 last year, so to say they have some motivation for this game would be an understatement.
More later.
Phillipsburg had won it the past four years, but has been beaten this year by Franklin and Hunterdon Central.
Central (6-0) and Franklin (4-1) have taken control of the division. Central will win the division with a win. If Franklin wins, the Warriors would have to beat Watchung Hills a week from Saturday to seal it. Central is 4-0 in divisional play; Franklin 3-0.
Two major players in the game are hurt and their status is uncertain.
Central quarterback Richie Lachner tore ligaments in the thumb on his right hand during last Friday's 30-6 rout of Phillipsburg. Hunterdon Central coach Matt Perotti said Tuesday that Lachner has been fitted with a special brace and practiced without pads. His status for Friday's game would be listed as "doubtful."
Franklin senior running back Brian Thompson, who is the motor of the Warriors' offense, is "50-50" to play, according to coach Lou Solomon. Thompson suffered a high ankle sprain in Saturday afternoon's 14-0 win over Warren Hills.
Governor Livingston plays host to Rahway Saturday afternoon. Rahway is coming off a stunning loss at Brearley Friday. The Indians were beaten by Governor Livingston 21-6 last year, so to say they have some motivation for this game would be an understatement.
More later.
Saturday, October 13, 2007
Bound Brook beats North Warren
Bound Brook scored an enormous win tonight in Blairstown -- love those hay bales! -- against North Warren. The 22-19 win should be enough to qualify the Crusaders for their second straight Central Jersey Group I playoff berth and perhaps get them a first-round home game.
Did I say it was a big win? The Crusaders (4-2) lost to Group II North Warren (4-2) 28-26 back on Sept. 14 in Bound Brook. That game counted as the Skyland Conference Valley Division game.
This game was simply about Bound Brook recovering from its 37-12 loss to Belvidere, and getting back on track toward a playoff berth. The Crusaders were eighth in the section last week. North Warren also desperately needed it as it wanted to make some headway in the North 1 Group II field. The Patriots were ninth last week.
Bound Brook coach Kevin Carty believed that if his team was 5-3 a the cutoff, there'd be no playoffs this year. Bound Brook was eighth last week in the sectional playoff race power points, but gained 12 power points with the win.
It wasn't easy. The Crusaders had four fumbles -- every one of them was taken of advantage of by North Warren and turned into a touchdown. Bound Brook's first two touchdowns were set up on blocked punts by senior Chris Jeskie and junior Joe Caban.
The Crusaders jumped out to a 14-0 lead on two touchdown passes from junior quarterback Mike Romanella to junior wide receiver Jordan Hawkins, fell behind 19-14, but rallied to win it on freshman -- yes freshman -- Andrew Campolattano's 1-yard touchdown run with 1:58 left in the third quarter. Campolattano ran in the two-point conversion to make it 22-19.
More on the game in Monday's paper.
Did I say it was a big win? The Crusaders (4-2) lost to Group II North Warren (4-2) 28-26 back on Sept. 14 in Bound Brook. That game counted as the Skyland Conference Valley Division game.
This game was simply about Bound Brook recovering from its 37-12 loss to Belvidere, and getting back on track toward a playoff berth. The Crusaders were eighth in the section last week. North Warren also desperately needed it as it wanted to make some headway in the North 1 Group II field. The Patriots were ninth last week.
Bound Brook coach Kevin Carty believed that if his team was 5-3 a the cutoff, there'd be no playoffs this year. Bound Brook was eighth last week in the sectional playoff race power points, but gained 12 power points with the win.
It wasn't easy. The Crusaders had four fumbles -- every one of them was taken of advantage of by North Warren and turned into a touchdown. Bound Brook's first two touchdowns were set up on blocked punts by senior Chris Jeskie and junior Joe Caban.
The Crusaders jumped out to a 14-0 lead on two touchdown passes from junior quarterback Mike Romanella to junior wide receiver Jordan Hawkins, fell behind 19-14, but rallied to win it on freshman -- yes freshman -- Andrew Campolattano's 1-yard touchdown run with 1:58 left in the third quarter. Campolattano ran in the two-point conversion to make it 22-19.
More on the game in Monday's paper.
Thursday, October 11, 2007
Some more stuff
Two teams that have been through a bit of the grinder early in the season will play Friday night in Bernards Township.
North Hunterdon (0-4) at Ridge (2-2)
Ridge, after losing to Immaculata and Montgomery to start the season, has bounced back with wins at Warren Hills and Voorhees. Quarterback Ryan McGuirl, who has thrown for seven touchdowns, but hasn't been intercepted, has helped Ridge turn it around.
"Ryan McGuirl has been outstanding," Ridge coach Tony Mottola said. "The big thing for him as been running our offense and not making mistakes. he's really doing a good job and he has only four varsity starts under him."
McGuirl was the team's third stringer last year. He did get some varsity snaps.
"We knew he'd be a good one. We wanted to give him some varsity experience (last year) and he has exceeded my expectations," Mottola said. "He has that 'it' factor like Brett Farve. He's brings intensity, energy, toughness. If he weren't our starting quarterback he'd be playing linebacker."
North Hunterdon head coach Dennis Haughey will be back on the sidelines for the Lions. He missed last Friday's 42-21 loss to Phillipsburg to tend to his father, who was injured in a car accident.
"We're through the meat of our schedule," said Haughey, whose team has lost to Hunterdon Central (5-0), Immaculata (5-0), Montgomery (4-0) and Phillipsburg (3-2). "Now we're in games where we know we can compete in."
North Hunterdon junior Ted Delia rushed for 227 yards and two scores last week.
Bound Brook's game with North Warren, orginally scheduled for Friday night in Blairstown, has been moved to Saturday night at 7 p.m. So all you folks from Manville can come scout North Warren and root against Bound Brook. lol. We know how you think.
North Hunterdon (0-4) at Ridge (2-2)
Ridge, after losing to Immaculata and Montgomery to start the season, has bounced back with wins at Warren Hills and Voorhees. Quarterback Ryan McGuirl, who has thrown for seven touchdowns, but hasn't been intercepted, has helped Ridge turn it around.
"Ryan McGuirl has been outstanding," Ridge coach Tony Mottola said. "The big thing for him as been running our offense and not making mistakes. he's really doing a good job and he has only four varsity starts under him."
McGuirl was the team's third stringer last year. He did get some varsity snaps.
"We knew he'd be a good one. We wanted to give him some varsity experience (last year) and he has exceeded my expectations," Mottola said. "He has that 'it' factor like Brett Farve. He's brings intensity, energy, toughness. If he weren't our starting quarterback he'd be playing linebacker."
North Hunterdon head coach Dennis Haughey will be back on the sidelines for the Lions. He missed last Friday's 42-21 loss to Phillipsburg to tend to his father, who was injured in a car accident.
"We're through the meat of our schedule," said Haughey, whose team has lost to Hunterdon Central (5-0), Immaculata (5-0), Montgomery (4-0) and Phillipsburg (3-2). "Now we're in games where we know we can compete in."
North Hunterdon junior Ted Delia rushed for 227 yards and two scores last week.
Bound Brook's game with North Warren, orginally scheduled for Friday night in Blairstown, has been moved to Saturday night at 7 p.m. So all you folks from Manville can come scout North Warren and root against Bound Brook. lol. We know how you think.
Tuesday, October 09, 2007
Central-P'Burg, Immaculata, Montgomery and...
Week six.
As last week was light because of the SAT testing, this week is pretty heavy with some good games.
Up first will be Immaculata (5-0) at Montgomery (4-0). Big game for the Cougars, but it's not a make or break game for them. They are headed for the Central Jersey Group IV playoffs. Immaculata is bound once again for the non-public State Group III playoffs.
The Spartans have won 17 straight.
An interesting matchup for sure. Montgomery quarterback Kevin Watson has been as good as advertised; tight end Chris Garcia is having another solid season and sophomnore J.T. Tartacoff is playing the way head coach Zoran Milich envisioned.
But for all of that -- the game will be won up front. Immaculata has the advantage there with the likes of Jim Fisher and defensive back Mike Kuhn. More in the game of the week story Friday.
Hunterdon Central (5-0) plays at Phillipsburg (3-2) in another critical game. Phillipsburg is trying to claw itself back into the North 2, Group IV race. A win over Central might just be enough to put them in. Central is hoping -- it better -- play better than in did in last week's 12-0 over Bridgewater-Raritan.
"We aren't as focused as we need to be," Hunterdon Central coach Matt Perotti said. "We had a couple of penalties that really hurt us. We had two personal fouls. We had a pass interference call that kept a drive alive. We had seven penalties, which is a lot for us."
More later
As last week was light because of the SAT testing, this week is pretty heavy with some good games.
Up first will be Immaculata (5-0) at Montgomery (4-0). Big game for the Cougars, but it's not a make or break game for them. They are headed for the Central Jersey Group IV playoffs. Immaculata is bound once again for the non-public State Group III playoffs.
The Spartans have won 17 straight.
An interesting matchup for sure. Montgomery quarterback Kevin Watson has been as good as advertised; tight end Chris Garcia is having another solid season and sophomnore J.T. Tartacoff is playing the way head coach Zoran Milich envisioned.
But for all of that -- the game will be won up front. Immaculata has the advantage there with the likes of Jim Fisher and defensive back Mike Kuhn. More in the game of the week story Friday.
Hunterdon Central (5-0) plays at Phillipsburg (3-2) in another critical game. Phillipsburg is trying to claw itself back into the North 2, Group IV race. A win over Central might just be enough to put them in. Central is hoping -- it better -- play better than in did in last week's 12-0 over Bridgewater-Raritan.
"We aren't as focused as we need to be," Hunterdon Central coach Matt Perotti said. "We had a couple of penalties that really hurt us. We had two personal fouls. We had a pass interference call that kept a drive alive. We had seven penalties, which is a lot for us."
More later
Tuesday, October 02, 2007
Game of the week and some other things..
This week's game of the week is: Belvidere (4-0) at Bound Brook (3-1) LaMonte Field at 7 p.m. It can't be the big boys every week.
It's worth the trip if you're not doing much -- Immaculata at Warren Hills, Bridgewater-Raritan at Hunterdon Central? -- c'mon, give the little schools some love.
Belvidere has rolled through Kearny, South Hunterdon, Bernards and Hackettstown, scoring 41. 5 points per game.
If you want to see one of the better Group 1 teams in the state -- that would be the County Seaters, coached by former Somerville head coach Larry Dubiel.
Belvidere beat Bound Brook 49-12 last year. The Crusaders scored on a long interception return by Chris Jeskie and a long kickoff return by Deven Baker. Baker's return came long after the game was decided in the second half.
The Crusaders are trying to claw their way back into the Central Jersey Group I race after a 28-26 loss to North Warren a few weeks ago. Kevin Carty, the Bound Brook coach, believes that if Bound Brook loses to Belvidere AND North Warren again, the Crusaders might not be returning to the CJ Group I playoffs.
Right now, the Crusaders are sixth in the playoff hunt. We'll have more on the game in Friday's paper.
Nice job by Ridge, which knocked off Warren Hills 25-6 last Friday night for its first win. Quarterback Ryan McGuirl threw for 234 yards and two touchdown and ran th eball 12 times for 84 yards and a touchdown. Great night. I overlooked Ryan's contributions in Monday's paper.
My colleague Jerry Carino and I will be recording our podcast Wednesday afternoon. hopefully, it'll be up on our website sometime Thursday afternoon.
GO NAZARETH
It's worth the trip if you're not doing much -- Immaculata at Warren Hills, Bridgewater-Raritan at Hunterdon Central? -- c'mon, give the little schools some love.
Belvidere has rolled through Kearny, South Hunterdon, Bernards and Hackettstown, scoring 41. 5 points per game.
If you want to see one of the better Group 1 teams in the state -- that would be the County Seaters, coached by former Somerville head coach Larry Dubiel.
Belvidere beat Bound Brook 49-12 last year. The Crusaders scored on a long interception return by Chris Jeskie and a long kickoff return by Deven Baker. Baker's return came long after the game was decided in the second half.
The Crusaders are trying to claw their way back into the Central Jersey Group I race after a 28-26 loss to North Warren a few weeks ago. Kevin Carty, the Bound Brook coach, believes that if Bound Brook loses to Belvidere AND North Warren again, the Crusaders might not be returning to the CJ Group I playoffs.
Right now, the Crusaders are sixth in the playoff hunt. We'll have more on the game in Friday's paper.
Nice job by Ridge, which knocked off Warren Hills 25-6 last Friday night for its first win. Quarterback Ryan McGuirl threw for 234 yards and two touchdown and ran th eball 12 times for 84 yards and a touchdown. Great night. I overlooked Ryan's contributions in Monday's paper.
My colleague Jerry Carino and I will be recording our podcast Wednesday afternoon. hopefully, it'll be up on our website sometime Thursday afternoon.
GO NAZARETH
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Game of the week -- an easy choice
Not much of a debate as to where to go Saturday. Game of the week time.
Immaculata (3-0) at Franklin (3-0) at Ackerman Field is Saturday at 1 p.m. in Franklin. No, I won't be covering Scotch Plains-Fanwood at Plainfield or Bound Brook at St. Joseph of the Palisades. I WILL be wondering what's going on in those games.
Anyway...
Franklin is having a resurgence this year. The Warriors had a pivotal 24-17 double-overtime win at Phillipsburg two weeks ago before what they felt was a subpar performance in a 23-6 win at Hillsborough last Thursday night.
Immaculata rolled through Somerville 31-6 in the season opener, outlasted Ridge 28-13 and steamrolled North Hunterdon 47-0.
Immaculata has been very good in signature games like the coming up Saturday. Junior Theo Riddick has been the top reason the Spartans have built a 15-game winning streak. He's rushed for 363 yards on 21 carries and three touchdowns. Franklin senior Brian Thompson has run for 303 yards on 58 carries. Riddick is averaging a phenominal 17.29 yards per carry.
Immaculata throws the ball better than Franklin. Senior quarterback Frank DeNick is 16-for-27 for 204 yards and three touchdowns. Jon Patrick is 14 for 20 for 139 yards and three scores for Franklin.
Couple notes: Franklin linebacker Jimmy Ray Ragland and Riddick are cousins. Also, Franklin coach Lou Solomon became the proud papa of twin boys Tuesday. Congratulations.
Immaculata (3-0) at Franklin (3-0) at Ackerman Field is Saturday at 1 p.m. in Franklin. No, I won't be covering Scotch Plains-Fanwood at Plainfield or Bound Brook at St. Joseph of the Palisades. I WILL be wondering what's going on in those games.
Anyway...
Franklin is having a resurgence this year. The Warriors had a pivotal 24-17 double-overtime win at Phillipsburg two weeks ago before what they felt was a subpar performance in a 23-6 win at Hillsborough last Thursday night.
Immaculata rolled through Somerville 31-6 in the season opener, outlasted Ridge 28-13 and steamrolled North Hunterdon 47-0.
Immaculata has been very good in signature games like the coming up Saturday. Junior Theo Riddick has been the top reason the Spartans have built a 15-game winning streak. He's rushed for 363 yards on 21 carries and three touchdowns. Franklin senior Brian Thompson has run for 303 yards on 58 carries. Riddick is averaging a phenominal 17.29 yards per carry.
Immaculata throws the ball better than Franklin. Senior quarterback Frank DeNick is 16-for-27 for 204 yards and three touchdowns. Jon Patrick is 14 for 20 for 139 yards and three scores for Franklin.
Couple notes: Franklin linebacker Jimmy Ray Ragland and Riddick are cousins. Also, Franklin coach Lou Solomon became the proud papa of twin boys Tuesday. Congratulations.
Saturday, September 22, 2007
A little controversy in Scotch Plains, Plainf, NPl notes
Eighteen seconds left in the game Friday afternoon between Irvington and Scotch Plains-Fanwood. Irvington has a 36-20 lead. Irvington set up close to the Raiders' goal line.
How about a knee by quarterback Joshua Evans so everybody leaves with a good feeling. No. A two-yard touchdown by Rashon Evans. The Knights then went for two, but the Raiders stopped it short.
Scotch Plains-Fanwood head coach Steve Ciccotelli and his staff weren't happy about head coach Darnell Grant's decision. The Raiders and Knights are both North 2, Group III schools -- so it's possible that the two could meet in the sectional playoffs.
Plainfield's Oreal Douglas scored on a short run in Plainfield's 12-6 loss to Irvington Friday night. The Cardinals are 0-3.
North Plainfield High School's football and cheerleader parent's booster club will hold a fundraiser on Oct. 6 between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. at the Vermeule Mansion on Greenbrook Road. There will be food, a disc jockey and door prizes. For more information call Dan Battista at 908-616-3574.
There may also be a special guest. Soprano's star Frank Vincent, who played the role of boss Phil Leotardo, said he will attend barring a professional engagement. Vincent has also starred in "Raging Bull" and "Casino."
How about a knee by quarterback Joshua Evans so everybody leaves with a good feeling. No. A two-yard touchdown by Rashon Evans. The Knights then went for two, but the Raiders stopped it short.
Scotch Plains-Fanwood head coach Steve Ciccotelli and his staff weren't happy about head coach Darnell Grant's decision. The Raiders and Knights are both North 2, Group III schools -- so it's possible that the two could meet in the sectional playoffs.
Plainfield's Oreal Douglas scored on a short run in Plainfield's 12-6 loss to Irvington Friday night. The Cardinals are 0-3.
North Plainfield High School's football and cheerleader parent's booster club will hold a fundraiser on Oct. 6 between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. at the Vermeule Mansion on Greenbrook Road. There will be food, a disc jockey and door prizes. For more information call Dan Battista at 908-616-3574.
There may also be a special guest. Soprano's star Frank Vincent, who played the role of boss Phil Leotardo, said he will attend barring a professional engagement. Vincent has also starred in "Raging Bull" and "Casino."
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
Pioneers to Blair
So, Somerville heads to Warren County with hopes of winning its first Saturday night against Blair Academy.
The Pioneers are the only public school on Blair's schedule. The Bucs count as a Group I school, but power points aren't what Somerville is thinking about.
"We have to win a game," Somerville coach Greg Arakelian said.
Blair, which does have fifth-year students on its roster, is 1-0.
"They're pretty good; we saw them last week and they have several good backs," Arakelian said. "They want to run the ball. They run a power wishbone.:
Running back Ed Imeokparia is a Division I talent and has received several offers.
Somerville will have one of its starters back. Junior Williams Watson, who injured his ankle early in the Immaculata game, will return, Arakelian said. He missed last week's game with Delaware Valley.
"I'm really happy with the attitude and the toughness of our kids," Arakelian said. "They have been resilient."
Delaware Valley lineman Drew Bourassa, who is playing more and more on defense, has been getting a lot of attention from Cornell, according to Terriers head coach Mike Columbo.
This year, Bound Brook is playing North Warren twice in the regular season. The Crusaders lost to North Warren 24-22 last week and will play again up at North Warren Oct. 12. Last year, Bridgeton played Lower Cape May twice in the regular season, winning both games.
The Pioneers are the only public school on Blair's schedule. The Bucs count as a Group I school, but power points aren't what Somerville is thinking about.
"We have to win a game," Somerville coach Greg Arakelian said.
Blair, which does have fifth-year students on its roster, is 1-0.
"They're pretty good; we saw them last week and they have several good backs," Arakelian said. "They want to run the ball. They run a power wishbone.:
Running back Ed Imeokparia is a Division I talent and has received several offers.
Somerville will have one of its starters back. Junior Williams Watson, who injured his ankle early in the Immaculata game, will return, Arakelian said. He missed last week's game with Delaware Valley.
"I'm really happy with the attitude and the toughness of our kids," Arakelian said. "They have been resilient."
Delaware Valley lineman Drew Bourassa, who is playing more and more on defense, has been getting a lot of attention from Cornell, according to Terriers head coach Mike Columbo.
This year, Bound Brook is playing North Warren twice in the regular season. The Crusaders lost to North Warren 24-22 last week and will play again up at North Warren Oct. 12. Last year, Bridgeton played Lower Cape May twice in the regular season, winning both games.
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
Riddick will play -- A LOT -- if needed
Sometimes, you just have to ask the athlete.
That's what I did Tuesday night.
Immaculata junior Theo Riddick is arguably the most talked about back in the state on these forums -- and there's more than one site.
Theo said he could play the entire 48 minutes of this Thursday night's game with Noth Hunterdon at Brooks Field. Immaculata probably -- probably -- won't need him to do that, but here's what Theo said Tuesday night:
"My ankle had been bothering me and I just tweaked one (against Ridge)," he said. "I tried to stiff arm and then I went on top of my opponent and wiped out. I only played about five minutes in the first half."
Riddick said he sprained the same ankle -- the right one -- which kept him out of the season-opener with Somerville.
By the way, Riddick picked up 108 yards on six carries in his brief time against Ridge, a game Immaculata won 28-13.
That's what I did Tuesday night.
Immaculata junior Theo Riddick is arguably the most talked about back in the state on these forums -- and there's more than one site.
Theo said he could play the entire 48 minutes of this Thursday night's game with Noth Hunterdon at Brooks Field. Immaculata probably -- probably -- won't need him to do that, but here's what Theo said Tuesday night:
"My ankle had been bothering me and I just tweaked one (against Ridge)," he said. "I tried to stiff arm and then I went on top of my opponent and wiped out. I only played about five minutes in the first half."
Riddick said he sprained the same ankle -- the right one -- which kept him out of the season-opener with Somerville.
By the way, Riddick picked up 108 yards on six carries in his brief time against Ridge, a game Immaculata won 28-13.
Friday, September 14, 2007
Liners-Warriors
Congratulations to Franklin's Warriors, who ended Phillipsburg's 30 game winning streak against Skyland Conference opponents that dated back to 2002. (P'Burg beat North Hunterdon twice last year in the league and in the North 2, Group IV playoffs).
Franklin won 24-17 in double overtime. I wouldn't classify this as a "classic" game. But you think the Warriors care?
Franklin won it with big plays and a very workmanlike second overtime that resulted in their milestone victory. The Warriors are 2-0.
Senior Brian Thompson was the Warriors' star of the game. Of the 15 plays in overtime, Thompson ran the ball 11 times and caught a pass for six yards on another. Thompson scored what turned out to be the game winning TD from two yards out.
Phillipsburg, which had the ball first in the first overtime, was then stopped cold in its second try. Senior quarterback Mike Crossley threw an incompletion before Enrique Rios and Ronald Macauley dropped Crossley for losses on consecutive plays before Crossley was intercepted by Ike Onyejiaka on the last play of the game. Onyejiaka also picked off a pass in the end zone after Phillipsburg had set up with a first-and-10 from the Franklin 28 on the first series of the game.
Couple of thoughts on the game.
I was excited about it -- yes, I admit -- I had an outburst in the wonderful P'Burg pressbox as I pointed out how Franklin makes big plays. Senior defensive back Richard Hemingway took Alex Toma's blocked field goal attempt 80 yards to the house with 11 seconds left in the half to give Franklin a 14-6 lead.
I thought that was it -- but to P'Burg's credit the Liners rallied
Franklin was stunned right from the gate when Phillipsburg lined up with three wide receivers and receiver Jack Buckley split just behind on the first play of the game. Crossley laterelled to Buckley who then threw a pass to a wide open Crossley for a 20 yard gain. Some P'Burg fans felt Crossley should have scored. But Franklin's secondary was able to pull him down.
Franklin led 14-6 at the half, but consider: Phillipsburg had 36 plays in the first half. Franklin had 17. Phillipsburg had 11 first downs; Franklin 3.
A 63-yard pass from Crossley to Buckley set Phillipsburg up at the Franklin 4 late in the fourth. Franklin stopped Eric Deery for a 2-yard gain, Jimmy Ray Ragland then dropped Deery for a two yard loss before the Warriors recovered a fumble, then waited for for overtime.
Franklin won 24-17 in double overtime. I wouldn't classify this as a "classic" game. But you think the Warriors care?
Franklin won it with big plays and a very workmanlike second overtime that resulted in their milestone victory. The Warriors are 2-0.
Senior Brian Thompson was the Warriors' star of the game. Of the 15 plays in overtime, Thompson ran the ball 11 times and caught a pass for six yards on another. Thompson scored what turned out to be the game winning TD from two yards out.
Phillipsburg, which had the ball first in the first overtime, was then stopped cold in its second try. Senior quarterback Mike Crossley threw an incompletion before Enrique Rios and Ronald Macauley dropped Crossley for losses on consecutive plays before Crossley was intercepted by Ike Onyejiaka on the last play of the game. Onyejiaka also picked off a pass in the end zone after Phillipsburg had set up with a first-and-10 from the Franklin 28 on the first series of the game.
Couple of thoughts on the game.
I was excited about it -- yes, I admit -- I had an outburst in the wonderful P'Burg pressbox as I pointed out how Franklin makes big plays. Senior defensive back Richard Hemingway took Alex Toma's blocked field goal attempt 80 yards to the house with 11 seconds left in the half to give Franklin a 14-6 lead.
I thought that was it -- but to P'Burg's credit the Liners rallied
Franklin was stunned right from the gate when Phillipsburg lined up with three wide receivers and receiver Jack Buckley split just behind on the first play of the game. Crossley laterelled to Buckley who then threw a pass to a wide open Crossley for a 20 yard gain. Some P'Burg fans felt Crossley should have scored. But Franklin's secondary was able to pull him down.
Franklin led 14-6 at the half, but consider: Phillipsburg had 36 plays in the first half. Franklin had 17. Phillipsburg had 11 first downs; Franklin 3.
A 63-yard pass from Crossley to Buckley set Phillipsburg up at the Franklin 4 late in the fourth. Franklin stopped Eric Deery for a 2-yard gain, Jimmy Ray Ragland then dropped Deery for a two yard loss before the Warriors recovered a fumble, then waited for for overtime.
14-14 at Pburg
Eric Deery scored on an 80-yard run and Albie Moran caught a two-point conversion pass from Mike Crossley to even the score for Phillipsburg at 14-14
Franklin leads 14-6
Phillipsburg has 9 first down's to Franklin's 3. Phillipsburg has run 33 plays to Franklin's 11.
But Franklin leads 14-6 at half.
Richard Hemingway's 84 yard return of a blocked field goal attempt by Alex Tomas with 11 seconds left in the first half gave the Warriors a 14-6 lead at Phillipsburg.
Brian Thompson gave Franklin a 7-0 lead with an 83-yard run on Franklin's third play from scrimmage. Thompson finished the half with 110 yards rushing. Franklin quarterback Jon Patrick, who went 4-fo-4 in last week's 50-3 rout of Bridgewater-Raritan with three touchdowns, didn't attempt a pass in the first half.
But Franklin leads 14-6 at half.
Richard Hemingway's 84 yard return of a blocked field goal attempt by Alex Tomas with 11 seconds left in the first half gave the Warriors a 14-6 lead at Phillipsburg.
Brian Thompson gave Franklin a 7-0 lead with an 83-yard run on Franklin's third play from scrimmage. Thompson finished the half with 110 yards rushing. Franklin quarterback Jon Patrick, who went 4-fo-4 in last week's 50-3 rout of Bridgewater-Raritan with three touchdowns, didn't attempt a pass in the first half.
7-6 Franklin with 6:49 left in the first half
Phillipsburg opens with four wide receivers. Quarterback Mike Crossley lateralled to Jack Buckley who threw a 20-yard completion to Crossley for a 20-yard gain to the 42. Phillipsburg drove to the Franklin 28, but Ike Onyejiaka picked off Crossley in the end zone.
Brian Thompson scores on a 83-yard run. Joel Painson kicks the extra point; Franklin 7-0 with 7:51 left in first period.
Brian Thompson scores on a 83-yard run. Joel Painson kicks the extra point; Franklin 7-0 with 7:51 left in first period.
Thursday, September 13, 2007
P'Burg, Stem and Ridge (updated at 4:05 Friday)
The New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association was set to uphold its ruling to deny Phillipsburg a waiver of the "70 percent rule." That happened Wednesday. But before the state executive committee was to vote, the Phillipsburg School District chose to drop its four-year case. The District just wanted to drop its csae.
Phillipsburg wanted to return -- I should say wants, because that will not change -- wants to return to its longtime rivals in the Lehigh Valley, those schools in Allentown and Bethlehem. P'Burg wanted to do that, yet wanted to continue to play in the state tournaments in New Jersey. The state requires that the Statelineliners play at least 70 percent of its schedule against New Jersey teams. Phillipsburg has been in the Skyland Conference since 1995.
"You have to remember that Philipsburg played the schools in Allentown and Bethelem for 50 to 60 years," Phillipsburg head coach Bob Stem said. "The people know each other. There's nothing wrong with those teams (in the Skyland Conference), but the tradition is much greater in the (Lehigh) Valley. We've been playing football for 102 years and I think the Allentown schools have been playing for a lot more than that."
Stem also said that coaches across the board have complained about the long trips and hours it takes to get to most of their Skyland opponents.
"You're punishing the kids, honestly," Stemp said.
The same could be said for the schools that drive to Phillipsburg.
Franklin will be making the trip tomorrow afternoon for its game 7 p.m. game with the Stateliners.
Franklin coach Lou Solomon's wife is expecting twin boys. We wish the Solomon family all the best. Lou Solomon is expected to coach the game Friday night.
Central Catholic plays at Nazareth Friday night. Miss you guys.
Ridge coach Tony Mottola on playing powerhouse Immaculata: "First off, we have to make sure to wrap up our tackles and just play hard. They are an outstanding team."
Phillipsburg wanted to return -- I should say wants, because that will not change -- wants to return to its longtime rivals in the Lehigh Valley, those schools in Allentown and Bethlehem. P'Burg wanted to do that, yet wanted to continue to play in the state tournaments in New Jersey. The state requires that the Statelineliners play at least 70 percent of its schedule against New Jersey teams. Phillipsburg has been in the Skyland Conference since 1995.
"You have to remember that Philipsburg played the schools in Allentown and Bethelem for 50 to 60 years," Phillipsburg head coach Bob Stem said. "The people know each other. There's nothing wrong with those teams (in the Skyland Conference), but the tradition is much greater in the (Lehigh) Valley. We've been playing football for 102 years and I think the Allentown schools have been playing for a lot more than that."
Stem also said that coaches across the board have complained about the long trips and hours it takes to get to most of their Skyland opponents.
"You're punishing the kids, honestly," Stemp said.
The same could be said for the schools that drive to Phillipsburg.
Franklin will be making the trip tomorrow afternoon for its game 7 p.m. game with the Stateliners.
Franklin coach Lou Solomon's wife is expecting twin boys. We wish the Solomon family all the best. Lou Solomon is expected to coach the game Friday night.
Central Catholic plays at Nazareth Friday night. Miss you guys.
Ridge coach Tony Mottola on playing powerhouse Immaculata: "First off, we have to make sure to wrap up our tackles and just play hard. They are an outstanding team."
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
Bound Brook-North Warren I and other things
How many times have you heard of schools playing each other TWICE in a regular season?
It happens from time to time in regular season/playoff scenarios, but never in the same regular season. It actually happened quite frequently before 1950. Even I wasn't born yet.
Well, Friday night, Bound Brook plays host to North Warren in the first of two games scheduled between the Skyland Conference Valley Division rivals. This is a one year deal. Both schools were absolutely unable to come up with a game for the second date, which will be in Blairstown Oct. 12. So Bound Brook-North Warren II was scheduled.
The game Friday night is the divisional game.
"The kids know how important it is," BB coach Kevin Carty said. "North Warren is big and fast and their quarterback has a strong arm."
Last year, Bound Brook beat the Patriots 20-13 in Blairstown and the Crusaders are expecting a very difficult game. It was because of that loss lsat year that North Warren didn't make the playoffs. Consider this: North Warren was 7-1 at the North 1, Group II playoffs and didn't qualify.
Bound Brook did make the CJ Group I playoffs for the first time since 1978. The win against North Warren was a major reason the Crusaders got a home playoff game against Keansburg.
"We are going to have to beat North Warren once or Belvidere to make it this year," Carty said. "The first game with North Warren is very important because the second time we play them is the week after we play Belvidere."
Bound Brook did get some good news today. Junior quarterback Mike Romanella, who injured his left, non-throwing shoulder after making a wild touchdown run in last Friday's 39-22 win over Bernards, will likely start.
"He's cleared to play," Carty said. "He threw 20 balls today and he threw pretty well. Whether he plays or not, Jeskie (Chris) will also play some quarterback."
Governor Livingston, which opened with a win against Roselle last week, will help A.L. Johnson christen its new field turf field Friday night. Johnson opened the season last year with a 19-7 win at Berkeley Heights and the teams nearly played a rematch in the Central Jersey Group II semifinals. But Johnson was upset by Raritan 23-20 in overtime, while GL was beating Carteret. Governor Livingston was beaten 20-19 by Raritan in the semifinals and the Rockets were knocked off 6-0 by Weequahic in the sectional final at Rutgers.
It happens from time to time in regular season/playoff scenarios, but never in the same regular season. It actually happened quite frequently before 1950. Even I wasn't born yet.
Well, Friday night, Bound Brook plays host to North Warren in the first of two games scheduled between the Skyland Conference Valley Division rivals. This is a one year deal. Both schools were absolutely unable to come up with a game for the second date, which will be in Blairstown Oct. 12. So Bound Brook-North Warren II was scheduled.
The game Friday night is the divisional game.
"The kids know how important it is," BB coach Kevin Carty said. "North Warren is big and fast and their quarterback has a strong arm."
Last year, Bound Brook beat the Patriots 20-13 in Blairstown and the Crusaders are expecting a very difficult game. It was because of that loss lsat year that North Warren didn't make the playoffs. Consider this: North Warren was 7-1 at the North 1, Group II playoffs and didn't qualify.
Bound Brook did make the CJ Group I playoffs for the first time since 1978. The win against North Warren was a major reason the Crusaders got a home playoff game against Keansburg.
"We are going to have to beat North Warren once or Belvidere to make it this year," Carty said. "The first game with North Warren is very important because the second time we play them is the week after we play Belvidere."
Bound Brook did get some good news today. Junior quarterback Mike Romanella, who injured his left, non-throwing shoulder after making a wild touchdown run in last Friday's 39-22 win over Bernards, will likely start.
"He's cleared to play," Carty said. "He threw 20 balls today and he threw pretty well. Whether he plays or not, Jeskie (Chris) will also play some quarterback."
Governor Livingston, which opened with a win against Roselle last week, will help A.L. Johnson christen its new field turf field Friday night. Johnson opened the season last year with a 19-7 win at Berkeley Heights and the teams nearly played a rematch in the Central Jersey Group II semifinals. But Johnson was upset by Raritan 23-20 in overtime, while GL was beating Carteret. Governor Livingston was beaten 20-19 by Raritan in the semifinals and the Rockets were knocked off 6-0 by Weequahic in the sectional final at Rutgers.
Sunday, September 09, 2007
New game at the paper
I had five or six people ask me Saturday what the trouble was with our newspaper. We had just two football games in Saturday's paper, leaving some our readers frustrated, others irritated and others downright mad.
Here's what is going on. We are on a new system and our paper has gone through a bit of a re-organization.
Our deadline is now about 10 p.m. Friday night. As some of you know, we rely very, very heavily on coaches or their stats to call results in since we only cover two games per Friday night -- but that wasn't the problem this time. The only two games we had in the paper Saturday were the ones we were able to cover -- I was at the Montgomery at Watchung Hills game, and my colleague Jerry Carino was at the Somerville-Immaculata contest.
We are now working with our sister paper the Home News Tribune to produce the daily sports report. As a result, we are working on new computer systems and new ways to get the latest news in the paper.
After a bumpy start last weekend, we believe that we have addressed the issue that cost us problems last weekend and that going forward you'll have the same timely reports you expect from us.
It's been a challenge for all of us -- we're all learning a new way to do things. But I'm sorry our readers felt shortchanged. We're fixing it.
Here's what is going on. We are on a new system and our paper has gone through a bit of a re-organization.
Our deadline is now about 10 p.m. Friday night. As some of you know, we rely very, very heavily on coaches or their stats to call results in since we only cover two games per Friday night -- but that wasn't the problem this time. The only two games we had in the paper Saturday were the ones we were able to cover -- I was at the Montgomery at Watchung Hills game, and my colleague Jerry Carino was at the Somerville-Immaculata contest.
We are now working with our sister paper the Home News Tribune to produce the daily sports report. As a result, we are working on new computer systems and new ways to get the latest news in the paper.
After a bumpy start last weekend, we believe that we have addressed the issue that cost us problems last weekend and that going forward you'll have the same timely reports you expect from us.
It's been a challenge for all of us -- we're all learning a new way to do things. But I'm sorry our readers felt shortchanged. We're fixing it.
Saturday, September 08, 2007
Franklin baby
Hot day at old Ackerman Field Saturday, especially for Franklin.
The Warriors blasted Bridgewater-Raritan 50-3. Franklin looked great. They weren't penalized in the second half, and didn't have a turnover.
I'm pretty bad at going overboard on early games, but Franklin has some players to keep it up. The Warriors have a solid offensive and defensive line, speedy linebackers, Gavin Roberts anchoring the defensive backfield. Roberts also made a terrific catch off a lob from junior quarterback Jon Patrick in the first half and tipped away a pass that B-R quarterback Alonzo Miller threw to a wide open Rob Pennella.
Franklin plays at Phillipsburg Friday night. The Stateliners haven't lost a Skyland Conference game since 2002 and has won four straight Skyland East titles.
Plainfield -- despite the penalties it incurred -- kept it close against Elizabeth Saturday, losing 20-13. Oreal Douglas scored twice on short runs and kicked the extra point. Plainfield plays at Irvington Saturday. Irvington beat Union in a wild game Saturday afternoon.
The Warriors blasted Bridgewater-Raritan 50-3. Franklin looked great. They weren't penalized in the second half, and didn't have a turnover.
I'm pretty bad at going overboard on early games, but Franklin has some players to keep it up. The Warriors have a solid offensive and defensive line, speedy linebackers, Gavin Roberts anchoring the defensive backfield. Roberts also made a terrific catch off a lob from junior quarterback Jon Patrick in the first half and tipped away a pass that B-R quarterback Alonzo Miller threw to a wide open Rob Pennella.
Franklin plays at Phillipsburg Friday night. The Stateliners haven't lost a Skyland Conference game since 2002 and has won four straight Skyland East titles.
Plainfield -- despite the penalties it incurred -- kept it close against Elizabeth Saturday, losing 20-13. Oreal Douglas scored twice on short runs and kicked the extra point. Plainfield plays at Irvington Saturday. Irvington beat Union in a wild game Saturday afternoon.
Friday, September 07, 2007
Montgomery and other things
Well, just so everybody knows -- our newspaper has gone through quite a bit recently, so if you don't see the score of your school's game in the paper, you probably will see it Sunday. Our deadlines have been pushed up some, so we've been pushing it a bit and getting used to the new working relationship with our friends at the Home News and Tribune. We'll be better for it.
I was at the Watchung Hills-Montgomery game Friday night and it's pretty clear that Cougar senior quarterback Kevin Watson knows what he's doing. The Cougars won in a 38-3 rout. Watchung Hills scored first on Jim Morrow's field goal, but the Warriors should have gotten at least six -- but -- the Montgomery defense wouldn't let it and sacked Jeff Janoski.
Watson threw for 215 yards with no interceptions. Chris Garcia, J.T. Tartacoff and the unheralded Andy Singley had very good games. Garcia and Tartacoff had a couple of touchdowns each and Singley was very effective in short yardage spots.
Montgomery's defense was also very good. A very impressive opener for the Cougars.
Now, for Watchung Hills. First off, senior defensive back Brian Macellara didn't play because of a high ankle sprain. That didn't help Watchung Hills' pass coverage.
We have mentioned in several articles that the Warriors would miss the graduated tight end Matt Hunt and quarterback Joe Giaimo and halfback Rob Ritter. But what we haven't mentioned is how much the Warriors would miss the graduated linemen Matt Crystal and Ron Quacquarini. It showed Friday night. Quarterbacks Janoski and Kevin Scholato were under pressure throughout the game.
That's it for now. It's late.
Oh, Nazareth lost to Parkland Friday night. Miss you guys.
I was at the Watchung Hills-Montgomery game Friday night and it's pretty clear that Cougar senior quarterback Kevin Watson knows what he's doing. The Cougars won in a 38-3 rout. Watchung Hills scored first on Jim Morrow's field goal, but the Warriors should have gotten at least six -- but -- the Montgomery defense wouldn't let it and sacked Jeff Janoski.
Watson threw for 215 yards with no interceptions. Chris Garcia, J.T. Tartacoff and the unheralded Andy Singley had very good games. Garcia and Tartacoff had a couple of touchdowns each and Singley was very effective in short yardage spots.
Montgomery's defense was also very good. A very impressive opener for the Cougars.
Now, for Watchung Hills. First off, senior defensive back Brian Macellara didn't play because of a high ankle sprain. That didn't help Watchung Hills' pass coverage.
We have mentioned in several articles that the Warriors would miss the graduated tight end Matt Hunt and quarterback Joe Giaimo and halfback Rob Ritter. But what we haven't mentioned is how much the Warriors would miss the graduated linemen Matt Crystal and Ron Quacquarini. It showed Friday night. Quarterbacks Janoski and Kevin Scholato were under pressure throughout the game.
That's it for now. It's late.
Oh, Nazareth lost to Parkland Friday night. Miss you guys.
Thursday, September 06, 2007
Don't forget DeNick
Immaculata senior quarterback Frank DeNick directed the Spartans to a 12-0 season last year, winning Non-Public Group III and Skyland West titles.
He'll once again be counted on to lead the way and it starts against Somerville Friday night at Brooks Field.
The Spartan line should be outstanding with center Mark Brazinski, guards T.J. Hoppe and Robert Gorgy and tackles Andrew Heaney and Cody Bohler. Immaculata will most likely be without star running back Theo Riddick against Somerville. Riddick has a high ankle sprain.
DeNick could wind up throwing the ball off a few more snaps.
"It'll give us the chance to prove to people that we're not a one-man team," said DeNick, who also batted in the leadoff spot and played right field for the Somerset County Tournament champion Spartans last spring. "I love playing with Theo and he's a great friend of mine, but it's a chance to prove we can handle his absence."
One thing about Somerville: maybe we're not giving the Pioneers enough credit. These kids have been successful at the freshman and junior varsity levels.
Quarterback Colin Klika has two solid backs to hand off to in Williams Watson and his brother St. Claire Watson. The receivers are good too. Mike Naples and Steve Robinson are two of the Pioneer receivers with plenty of varsity experience.
He'll once again be counted on to lead the way and it starts against Somerville Friday night at Brooks Field.
The Spartan line should be outstanding with center Mark Brazinski, guards T.J. Hoppe and Robert Gorgy and tackles Andrew Heaney and Cody Bohler. Immaculata will most likely be without star running back Theo Riddick against Somerville. Riddick has a high ankle sprain.
DeNick could wind up throwing the ball off a few more snaps.
"It'll give us the chance to prove to people that we're not a one-man team," said DeNick, who also batted in the leadoff spot and played right field for the Somerset County Tournament champion Spartans last spring. "I love playing with Theo and he's a great friend of mine, but it's a chance to prove we can handle his absence."
One thing about Somerville: maybe we're not giving the Pioneers enough credit. These kids have been successful at the freshman and junior varsity levels.
Quarterback Colin Klika has two solid backs to hand off to in Williams Watson and his brother St. Claire Watson. The receivers are good too. Mike Naples and Steve Robinson are two of the Pioneer receivers with plenty of varsity experience.
Immaculata stuff
We've been told that junior running back Theo Riddick will not be playing in Friday night's cross-borough game with Somerville.
Immaculata assistant coach Joe Servidio said that Riddick has a high ankle sprain. The Spartans will use a committee of backs to fill in -- senior Mike Kuhn, junior John Mack and sophomore Kyle Jordan.
Riddick's availability for next week's game at Ridge won't be known for awhile.
Riddick suffered a concussion in last year's game with Somerville, but the Spartans won anyway as graduated fullback A.J. Albert began what turned out to be a dream season for him and the team.
Kuhn also missed last year's opener with turf toe along with the graduated Kent Amoo Achampong, who never came back after a broken wrist suffered in the summer.
So Kuhn, Mack and Jordan can look at this as an opportunity to seize a prominent role in the Spartan offense. Of course, that all changes when Riddick returns.
Nazareth plays at Parkland tonight. Go Blue Eagles.
Immaculata assistant coach Joe Servidio said that Riddick has a high ankle sprain. The Spartans will use a committee of backs to fill in -- senior Mike Kuhn, junior John Mack and sophomore Kyle Jordan.
Riddick's availability for next week's game at Ridge won't be known for awhile.
Riddick suffered a concussion in last year's game with Somerville, but the Spartans won anyway as graduated fullback A.J. Albert began what turned out to be a dream season for him and the team.
Kuhn also missed last year's opener with turf toe along with the graduated Kent Amoo Achampong, who never came back after a broken wrist suffered in the summer.
So Kuhn, Mack and Jordan can look at this as an opportunity to seize a prominent role in the Spartan offense. Of course, that all changes when Riddick returns.
Nazareth plays at Parkland tonight. Go Blue Eagles.
Wednesday, September 05, 2007
Game of the week and other things...
Face it, the team you play for is the most important team in the world. We understand that, but unfortunately, we can only have one "game of the week" per week.
The season opening game of the week has been bestowed upon Montgomery and Watchung Hills. Game time Friday night is 7 p.m. in Watchung at Tozier Field.
It's not Somerville-Immaculata or Hunterdon Central-North Hunterdon or even Franklin-Bridgewater-Raritan, but -- it's a vital game for both and we figure it to be a close game.
Watchung Hills lost tight end Matt Hunt and quarterback Joe Giaimo among its graduates in June and several good lineman from a team that went 6-4.
Montgomery has its prized senior quarterback Kevin Watson back along with tight end Chris Garcia and senior Devon Saunders and a nice group of lineman.
"We can split Chris, isolate him," Montgomery coach Zoran Milich said. "He's a beast. He's really a pysical specimen."
Years ago, former New York Rangers coach Colin Campbell described the Devils' forwards as interchangeable parts. That's what Watchung Hills reminds me of. The Warriors run their Delaware Wing-T and share the ball in the backfield with small, quick guys who make plays. They're a tricky team to play and for coaches to prepare their teams to play.
"Jim does a phenominal job with it," said Milich of Watchung Hills' coach Jim Benedict. "He can run a clinic with that offense."
I'm officially on the Franklin bandwagon. They have enough players to make a big jump this year. Will they do it is another question. Franklin resides in the Skyland Delaware East Division with Phillipsburg, which has made it to three straight North 2, Group IV finals, winning in '05. Phillipsburg has won 20 straight division games and has claimed four straight divisional titles. Hunterdon Central was the last team to beat Phillipsburg in a divisional game Nov. 2 2002. Central won the division title that year.
Could Franklin stop P'Burg's run?
"We have a nice looking group, but a lot of them are untested," Franklin coach Lou Solomon said.
Bridgewater-Raritan is up first Saturday afternoon in Franklin at 1 p.m. Bridgewater-Raritan was 2-8 last year (beating Hillsborough and Plainfield) and Franklin was 5-5.
The season opening game of the week has been bestowed upon Montgomery and Watchung Hills. Game time Friday night is 7 p.m. in Watchung at Tozier Field.
It's not Somerville-Immaculata or Hunterdon Central-North Hunterdon or even Franklin-Bridgewater-Raritan, but -- it's a vital game for both and we figure it to be a close game.
Watchung Hills lost tight end Matt Hunt and quarterback Joe Giaimo among its graduates in June and several good lineman from a team that went 6-4.
Montgomery has its prized senior quarterback Kevin Watson back along with tight end Chris Garcia and senior Devon Saunders and a nice group of lineman.
"We can split Chris, isolate him," Montgomery coach Zoran Milich said. "He's a beast. He's really a pysical specimen."
Years ago, former New York Rangers coach Colin Campbell described the Devils' forwards as interchangeable parts. That's what Watchung Hills reminds me of. The Warriors run their Delaware Wing-T and share the ball in the backfield with small, quick guys who make plays. They're a tricky team to play and for coaches to prepare their teams to play.
"Jim does a phenominal job with it," said Milich of Watchung Hills' coach Jim Benedict. "He can run a clinic with that offense."
I'm officially on the Franklin bandwagon. They have enough players to make a big jump this year. Will they do it is another question. Franklin resides in the Skyland Delaware East Division with Phillipsburg, which has made it to three straight North 2, Group IV finals, winning in '05. Phillipsburg has won 20 straight division games and has claimed four straight divisional titles. Hunterdon Central was the last team to beat Phillipsburg in a divisional game Nov. 2 2002. Central won the division title that year.
Could Franklin stop P'Burg's run?
"We have a nice looking group, but a lot of them are untested," Franklin coach Lou Solomon said.
Bridgewater-Raritan is up first Saturday afternoon in Franklin at 1 p.m. Bridgewater-Raritan was 2-8 last year (beating Hillsborough and Plainfield) and Franklin was 5-5.
Monday, September 03, 2007
New Bound Brook quarterback
Mike Romanella, Bound Brook's junior quarterback, transfers over from New London High School in Connecticut.
Romanella played for Jack Cochran, who was in the news last year regarding a blowout rule in Connecticut. In 2005, New London, coached by Cochran, beat Griswold High 90-0 and won four games by 50 or more points. In Connecticut, teams are prohibited from beating their opponents by more than 50 points.
It's widely believed that the rule by the Connecticut Interscholastic Athletic Conference was directed at Cochran, who is still at New London. New London would be a larger Group I school in New Jersey.
"New London went 9-2 two years ago and 7-3 last year," said Romanella, who started most of last year's game for New London before being hurt. "New London would be a small school in New Jersey, but they'd be pretty powerful.
"My freshman and sophomore years we didn't have a guy who was 6-foot to throw to. Just this year we had a tight end transfer in who was 6-foot-2," Romanella said. "We never had any targets who could jump, run and catch like these guys (Deven Baker and Erron Banks). These guys are unbelievable down there. They are great passing targets."
Romanella said he would rather pass than run the ball.
"I just like to sit back there and pass," Romanell said. "If I have to run I'll run. I'm not slow."
Pretty interesting article in the Wall Street Journal last week about how more and more coaches are using film to practice to combat new regulations in using shorter practice time.
Romanella played for Jack Cochran, who was in the news last year regarding a blowout rule in Connecticut. In 2005, New London, coached by Cochran, beat Griswold High 90-0 and won four games by 50 or more points. In Connecticut, teams are prohibited from beating their opponents by more than 50 points.
It's widely believed that the rule by the Connecticut Interscholastic Athletic Conference was directed at Cochran, who is still at New London. New London would be a larger Group I school in New Jersey.
"New London went 9-2 two years ago and 7-3 last year," said Romanella, who started most of last year's game for New London before being hurt. "New London would be a small school in New Jersey, but they'd be pretty powerful.
"My freshman and sophomore years we didn't have a guy who was 6-foot to throw to. Just this year we had a tight end transfer in who was 6-foot-2," Romanella said. "We never had any targets who could jump, run and catch like these guys (Deven Baker and Erron Banks). These guys are unbelievable down there. They are great passing targets."
Romanella said he would rather pass than run the ball.
"I just like to sit back there and pass," Romanell said. "If I have to run I'll run. I'm not slow."
Pretty interesting article in the Wall Street Journal last week about how more and more coaches are using film to practice to combat new regulations in using shorter practice time.
Sunday, September 02, 2007
The Boro
So, who gets more attention on the forums these days?
Immaculata? Probably. But what about Hillsborough? Are you expecting me to rip head coach Vin Coviello and blame him for going 3-7 last year in his first year?
Coviello is in his second year. He replaced longtime coach Rick Mantz, who led the Raiders to a Central Jersey Group IV title in 2000. Vinnie had a tough act to follow.
"It really doesn't bother me," said Coviello of the critics. "If it wasn't me, it would be another coach."
Can Hillsborough turn things around? The Raiders have a brutal schedule -- Piscataway to open Friday night followed by the likes of Hunterdon Central and Franklin. Franklin should be better. The Warriors can blame the loss to Hillsborough for them not making the playoffs.
Hillsborough will be speedy and senior lineman Rocco Mazzagatti will be in his fourth year of varsity football. Junior quarterback Mike Daly is a year older and wiser and has a long list of receivers to throw. Daly threw for 636 yards last year with four touchdowns.
Sophomore running back/defensive back Mike Banaciski played as a freshman last year.
"He's a special kid," Coviello said.
The Raiders could look a lot better this year, but the results might not be found on their final record. The season could be hard to judge for those not close to the program -- which means a lot more critique for the head coach.
Immaculata? Probably. But what about Hillsborough? Are you expecting me to rip head coach Vin Coviello and blame him for going 3-7 last year in his first year?
Coviello is in his second year. He replaced longtime coach Rick Mantz, who led the Raiders to a Central Jersey Group IV title in 2000. Vinnie had a tough act to follow.
"It really doesn't bother me," said Coviello of the critics. "If it wasn't me, it would be another coach."
Can Hillsborough turn things around? The Raiders have a brutal schedule -- Piscataway to open Friday night followed by the likes of Hunterdon Central and Franklin. Franklin should be better. The Warriors can blame the loss to Hillsborough for them not making the playoffs.
Hillsborough will be speedy and senior lineman Rocco Mazzagatti will be in his fourth year of varsity football. Junior quarterback Mike Daly is a year older and wiser and has a long list of receivers to throw. Daly threw for 636 yards last year with four touchdowns.
Sophomore running back/defensive back Mike Banaciski played as a freshman last year.
"He's a special kid," Coviello said.
The Raiders could look a lot better this year, but the results might not be found on their final record. The season could be hard to judge for those not close to the program -- which means a lot more critique for the head coach.
Saturday, September 01, 2007
Welcome to September
North Hunterdon and Voorhees actually started school Aug. 30, so we're into the school year up here in Hunterdon County already. Pennsylvania starts Sept. 4.
Hunterdon Central opens the season Friday night at North Hunterdon. The Red Devils, who game scrimmaged West Morris Friday night, were Central Jersey Group IV champions last year, beating Howell at Giants Stadium for the title.
But remember that Central lost to North Hunterdon 21-18 in last year's season opener.
The Red Devils haven't forgotten.
"We talk about it a whole bunch," Central coach Matt Perotti said. "We just didn't look prepared that night and I have to hand it to (North coach Dennis Haughey) Haughey. North was ready, but we weren't and that game has been with me since. To start the season at home with a loss. I didn't do a good enough job."
Central doesn't have much room for unexpected losses now that they have joined the extraordinarly deep North 2, Group IV field.
Central suffered from five turnovers in the North game.
"I think that what happened was that it was overhpyed and we didn't come into it mentally prepared," said tight end/linebacker Garrett Thul. "We didn't take it as seriously as we should have and it was do or die that moment on."
North Hunterdon looked good Saturday in a late-scheduled scrimmage with Warren Hills.
Nazareth lost its season-opener to Pleasant Valley in a season over at home. Pleasant Valley hadn't won a season opener in eight years. I miss you guys very much.
More tomorrow!
Hunterdon Central opens the season Friday night at North Hunterdon. The Red Devils, who game scrimmaged West Morris Friday night, were Central Jersey Group IV champions last year, beating Howell at Giants Stadium for the title.
But remember that Central lost to North Hunterdon 21-18 in last year's season opener.
The Red Devils haven't forgotten.
"We talk about it a whole bunch," Central coach Matt Perotti said. "We just didn't look prepared that night and I have to hand it to (North coach Dennis Haughey) Haughey. North was ready, but we weren't and that game has been with me since. To start the season at home with a loss. I didn't do a good enough job."
Central doesn't have much room for unexpected losses now that they have joined the extraordinarly deep North 2, Group IV field.
Central suffered from five turnovers in the North game.
"I think that what happened was that it was overhpyed and we didn't come into it mentally prepared," said tight end/linebacker Garrett Thul. "We didn't take it as seriously as we should have and it was do or die that moment on."
North Hunterdon looked good Saturday in a late-scheduled scrimmage with Warren Hills.
Nazareth lost its season-opener to Pleasant Valley in a season over at home. Pleasant Valley hadn't won a season opener in eight years. I miss you guys very much.
More tomorrow!
Friday, August 31, 2007
A week to go
Game scrimmage Friday has come and gone.
Now, if you ask any coach they will tell you that they had an outstanding final scrimmage. That's what coaches are supposed to tell reporters, so since I already know the answer, I usually don't ask....but here were some of the matchups that our teams had Friday:
Scotch Plains-Fanwood at Immaculata, Bernards at Pingry, Hillsborough at Clifton, Bound Brook at Hawthorne, Morris Knolls at Watchung Hills, Morristown at Bridgewater-Raritan, Franklin at Lawrence and North Plainfield at Brearley. Plainfield goes to Teaneck Saturday night.
I stopped by Immaculata-Scotch Plains-Fanwood and Bernards-Pingry. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to wait around for the Bernards' scrimmage and just a few plays at Immaculata.
A season-0pening game that might be a bit overshadowed is Watchung Hills playing host to Montgomery. Montgomery is expecting to have a good season, while Watchung Hills wants to contend for a North 2, Group IV playoff berth. North 2, Group IV is a very crowded and deep field -- defending champ Elizabeth, last year's CJ IV champ Hunterdon Central, reigning Skyland Conference champ Phillipsburg, perennial contender Piscataway and Franklin...talk about a tough field.
Now, if you ask any coach they will tell you that they had an outstanding final scrimmage. That's what coaches are supposed to tell reporters, so since I already know the answer, I usually don't ask....but here were some of the matchups that our teams had Friday:
Scotch Plains-Fanwood at Immaculata, Bernards at Pingry, Hillsborough at Clifton, Bound Brook at Hawthorne, Morris Knolls at Watchung Hills, Morristown at Bridgewater-Raritan, Franklin at Lawrence and North Plainfield at Brearley. Plainfield goes to Teaneck Saturday night.
I stopped by Immaculata-Scotch Plains-Fanwood and Bernards-Pingry. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to wait around for the Bernards' scrimmage and just a few plays at Immaculata.
A season-0pening game that might be a bit overshadowed is Watchung Hills playing host to Montgomery. Montgomery is expecting to have a good season, while Watchung Hills wants to contend for a North 2, Group IV playoff berth. North 2, Group IV is a very crowded and deep field -- defending champ Elizabeth, last year's CJ IV champ Hunterdon Central, reigning Skyland Conference champ Phillipsburg, perennial contender Piscataway and Franklin...talk about a tough field.
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
Wednesday stuff and a new Panther baseball coach
Spoke to Ridge High coach Tony Mottola tonight. He informed me that running back Keegan Conway was seriously injured during a tackling drill in practice recently. Conway suffered several broken vertebra, but thank goodness -- Keegan's ok. In fact, there's a chance he'll be able to come back and play lacrosse in the spring.
Ridge opens Sept. 14 against Immaculata, so the Red Devils have two scrimmages left -- one with South Plainfield Friday night, then next Thursday with Hun.
I'll have some more information on Ridge tomorrow.
Dunellen junior tailback Ricky Fiorito, who gained 900 yards last year, broke his ankle and may be back late in the season, according to Dunellen coach Dave DeNapoli.
Plainfield is working hard for first-year head coach Reggie Robinson. Dropped by practice Wednesday afternoon, and the Cardinals looked sharp. Robinson hasn't named his starting quarterback yet -- the Cardinals have three that are looking to win the job. Robinson said that four different backs will share the load.
Robinson is hoping to boost the offensive production for a team that went 1-9 last year. The Cardinals scrimmage at Teneack Saturday night and will likely be in the house at Elizabeth's Williams Field when Elizabeth has a scrimmage with Don Bosco.
More on Reggie tomorrow.
I know this isn't football related, but Max Newell has been hired as the new baseball coach at Bridgewater-Raritan. He takes over for Scott Bray, who resigned when he was hired as the Panthers' head football coach.
Ridge opens Sept. 14 against Immaculata, so the Red Devils have two scrimmages left -- one with South Plainfield Friday night, then next Thursday with Hun.
I'll have some more information on Ridge tomorrow.
Dunellen junior tailback Ricky Fiorito, who gained 900 yards last year, broke his ankle and may be back late in the season, according to Dunellen coach Dave DeNapoli.
Plainfield is working hard for first-year head coach Reggie Robinson. Dropped by practice Wednesday afternoon, and the Cardinals looked sharp. Robinson hasn't named his starting quarterback yet -- the Cardinals have three that are looking to win the job. Robinson said that four different backs will share the load.
Robinson is hoping to boost the offensive production for a team that went 1-9 last year. The Cardinals scrimmage at Teneack Saturday night and will likely be in the house at Elizabeth's Williams Field when Elizabeth has a scrimmage with Don Bosco.
More on Reggie tomorrow.
I know this isn't football related, but Max Newell has been hired as the new baseball coach at Bridgewater-Raritan. He takes over for Scott Bray, who resigned when he was hired as the Panthers' head football coach.
Monday, August 27, 2007
Assistants step down
Two longtime and important members of their staffs have stepped down recently.
Piscataway High longtime assistant and the team's offensive coordinator Larry Lester told my colleague Jerry Carino that he won't be with the Chiefs this season. Lester said he's not sure if he will return to his longtime position as head track coach. Lester is one of the area's classiest and influential coaches. His son, Larry Jr., was a Piscataway star and played at Boston College.
North Hunterdon assistant Tom Hank has also stepped down after helping Dennis Haughey for the past 13 years. Hank, who also is an assistant baseball coach for Parker Snare at North, is the Lions' head girls basketball coach.
Piscataway High longtime assistant and the team's offensive coordinator Larry Lester told my colleague Jerry Carino that he won't be with the Chiefs this season. Lester said he's not sure if he will return to his longtime position as head track coach. Lester is one of the area's classiest and influential coaches. His son, Larry Jr., was a Piscataway star and played at Boston College.
North Hunterdon assistant Tom Hank has also stepped down after helping Dennis Haughey for the past 13 years. Hank, who also is an assistant baseball coach for Parker Snare at North, is the Lions' head girls basketball coach.
Sunday, August 26, 2007
Sunday notes
North Hunterdon High School coach Dennis Haughey spent part of Sunday afternoon in front of the television in the Lions fieldhouse, breaking down Saturday's scrimmage with Delaware Valley.
The Lions did some good things, and bad. They were penalized a bit too much, but junior running back Ted Delia had some good runs.
The Lions will have a rugged start of the season. How's this. They open with defending Central Jersey Group IV champion Hunterdon Central Sept. 7, then has a bye week before their bye week. They come back to play defending state Non-Public Group III champion Immaculata Sept. 20, then play at Montgomery Sept. 28 before coming home Oct. 5 to play host to defending three-time Skyland Delaware East champ Phillipsburg. North played Phillipsburg twice last year -- in the regular season, and in the opening round of the North 2, Group IV playoffs.
Somerville junior running back Williams Watson is named after his uncle Jonathan Williams, the former Somerville High great back Jon Williams, who played at Penn State and the New England Patriots. So, if you see the name Williams in the newspaper, it's not a mistake. Williams' brother St. Claire Watson is a senior running back for the Pioneers.
The Pioneers had to scrimmage two times in three days this past week because of poor weather. Somerville had Warren Hills and Mount Olive. The Pioneers game scrimmage Thursday at Mahwah.
Nice job as usual by our friends at the Easton Express Times today with their football special section. Ours will run Sept. 7.
The Lions did some good things, and bad. They were penalized a bit too much, but junior running back Ted Delia had some good runs.
The Lions will have a rugged start of the season. How's this. They open with defending Central Jersey Group IV champion Hunterdon Central Sept. 7, then has a bye week before their bye week. They come back to play defending state Non-Public Group III champion Immaculata Sept. 20, then play at Montgomery Sept. 28 before coming home Oct. 5 to play host to defending three-time Skyland Delaware East champ Phillipsburg. North played Phillipsburg twice last year -- in the regular season, and in the opening round of the North 2, Group IV playoffs.
Somerville junior running back Williams Watson is named after his uncle Jonathan Williams, the former Somerville High great back Jon Williams, who played at Penn State and the New England Patriots. So, if you see the name Williams in the newspaper, it's not a mistake. Williams' brother St. Claire Watson is a senior running back for the Pioneers.
The Pioneers had to scrimmage two times in three days this past week because of poor weather. Somerville had Warren Hills and Mount Olive. The Pioneers game scrimmage Thursday at Mahwah.
Nice job as usual by our friends at the Easton Express Times today with their football special section. Ours will run Sept. 7.
Saturday, August 25, 2007
Franklin notes
Ackerman Field is ready to go, according to Franklin head coach Lou Solomon.
Solomon said the field -- which is behind the old Franklin High School, now middle school -- looks great. The field has been re-seeded and watered and the Warriors have stayed off it.
Juniors Jonathan Patrick and Trevor Jackson are contending for the starting job. Patrick is the leader at this point. I like Franklin's offensive line. Center Ryan Beicher, guard Young Ho Chang and tackle Enrique Rios are seniors and have plenty of varsity experience.
Franklin, which had a controlled scrimmage with Voorhees Saturday morning, game scrimmages at Lawrence next Friday. The Warriors won't use the field until their home field until the season-opener with Bridgewater-Raritan two weeks from today.
North Hunterdon scrimmaged Delaware Valley this morning at North. Delaware Valley might be a team that surprises some folks this year. Just a early hunch. That said, the Terriers will have to find a replacement for Rich Gebert, the very productive back that has decided to focus on wrestling.
Solomon said the field -- which is behind the old Franklin High School, now middle school -- looks great. The field has been re-seeded and watered and the Warriors have stayed off it.
Juniors Jonathan Patrick and Trevor Jackson are contending for the starting job. Patrick is the leader at this point. I like Franklin's offensive line. Center Ryan Beicher, guard Young Ho Chang and tackle Enrique Rios are seniors and have plenty of varsity experience.
Franklin, which had a controlled scrimmage with Voorhees Saturday morning, game scrimmages at Lawrence next Friday. The Warriors won't use the field until their home field until the season-opener with Bridgewater-Raritan two weeks from today.
North Hunterdon scrimmaged Delaware Valley this morning at North. Delaware Valley might be a team that surprises some folks this year. Just a early hunch. That said, the Terriers will have to find a replacement for Rich Gebert, the very productive back that has decided to focus on wrestling.
Friday, August 24, 2007
Banks to Towson
Bound Brook senior wide receiver Erron Banks has committed to Division I-AA Towson University. Banks said he also had interest from Albany, Stony Brook, the University of New Hampshire and Maine.
Banks caught five touchdown passes last year and returned a punt for a score.
Speaking of New Hampshire, former Somerville High star quarterback Ryan Carty is now the defensive backs coach at the school. One of the players Carty is coaching is former Piscataway star Terrence Fox, who graduated in June.
Plainfield High returned from a camp this past week in upstate New York. Reggie Robinson, who has taken over for longtime head coach Clint Jones, said there are three players competing for the starting quarterback job. The Cardinals are scheduled to scrimmage at Lincoln Saturday, play host to St. John Vianney Monday, then play a game scrimmage at Teaneck a week from Saturday. The Cardinals open the season at home Sept. 8 against defending North 2, Group IV champ Elizabeth.
Banks caught five touchdown passes last year and returned a punt for a score.
Speaking of New Hampshire, former Somerville High star quarterback Ryan Carty is now the defensive backs coach at the school. One of the players Carty is coaching is former Piscataway star Terrence Fox, who graduated in June.
Plainfield High returned from a camp this past week in upstate New York. Reggie Robinson, who has taken over for longtime head coach Clint Jones, said there are three players competing for the starting quarterback job. The Cardinals are scheduled to scrimmage at Lincoln Saturday, play host to St. John Vianney Monday, then play a game scrimmage at Teaneck a week from Saturday. The Cardinals open the season at home Sept. 8 against defending North 2, Group IV champ Elizabeth.
Over in Springfield
Visited with former Franklin High head coach Joe Goerge, now the head coach at Jonathan Dayton High in Springfield, Thursday afternoon at Meisel Park in Springfield.
Dayton is in its third year of resurrecting its football program with Goerge the spearhead of the operation. Goerge is being assisted by longtime Franklin assistant Bobby Martin and Goerge's sons Mike and Jason. It was good to see those guys.
Dayton scrimmaged South Hunterdon and both sides have reason to believe that this year will bring improvement. Dayton was 0-10 last year and South was 1-9, beating Dayton in a consolation game in West Amwell.
Both Goerge and South Hunterdon head coach Jim Meert -- the former Hunterdon Central head coach -- have experienced winning sectional championships at Giants Stadium. Now they are in charge of two of the smaller schools that play football in the state.
South Hunterdon has several players that any Skyland Conference team would like to have -- senior fullback/linebacker Kyle Hart, junior quarterback/defensive back Brian Snell and senior wide receiver/defensive back Ryan Marriott.
I'm going to have something further on coach Goerge's life these days in Sunday's newspaper.
Piscataway head coach Dan Higgins said he was impressed with both Don Bosco and Immaculata in the quad scrimmage at Brick Memorial earlier this week.
"Bosco really came to play," Higgins said. "I'd like to play them later in the season. We had been in pads for five days, but they look like they were in playoff mode already. They really seemed to be up to play us."
Dayton is in its third year of resurrecting its football program with Goerge the spearhead of the operation. Goerge is being assisted by longtime Franklin assistant Bobby Martin and Goerge's sons Mike and Jason. It was good to see those guys.
Dayton scrimmaged South Hunterdon and both sides have reason to believe that this year will bring improvement. Dayton was 0-10 last year and South was 1-9, beating Dayton in a consolation game in West Amwell.
Both Goerge and South Hunterdon head coach Jim Meert -- the former Hunterdon Central head coach -- have experienced winning sectional championships at Giants Stadium. Now they are in charge of two of the smaller schools that play football in the state.
South Hunterdon has several players that any Skyland Conference team would like to have -- senior fullback/linebacker Kyle Hart, junior quarterback/defensive back Brian Snell and senior wide receiver/defensive back Ryan Marriott.
I'm going to have something further on coach Goerge's life these days in Sunday's newspaper.
Piscataway head coach Dan Higgins said he was impressed with both Don Bosco and Immaculata in the quad scrimmage at Brick Memorial earlier this week.
"Bosco really came to play," Higgins said. "I'd like to play them later in the season. We had been in pads for five days, but they look like they were in playoff mode already. They really seemed to be up to play us."
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
One other thought....
The Skyland Conference has set regulations about where reporters can stand on the sidelines during football games. As somebody who has been knocked over a few times while charting a game, I'm all for it...
In fact, I'm at the age where the pressbox is looking more and more a better choice.
But....how about doing something about all of those "assistant'' coaches, parents, eager alumni and others who really don't belong on the sidelines. Some sidelines during Skyland Conference games in recent years have been so congested it's amazing that somebody hasn't broken a leg or arm with a play that falls out of bounds.
In fact, I'm at the age where the pressbox is looking more and more a better choice.
But....how about doing something about all of those "assistant'' coaches, parents, eager alumni and others who really don't belong on the sidelines. Some sidelines during Skyland Conference games in recent years have been so congested it's amazing that somebody hasn't broken a leg or arm with a play that falls out of bounds.
Just after midnight
Fifteen days until season-opening night.
Delaware Valley scrimmaged Pope John of Sparta this afternoon. Delaware Valley head coach Mike Columbo told me that one of our area's leading scorers -- halfback Richie Gebert -- has decided not to come out, so he can focus on wrestling. Gebert, a senior, rushed for 1,400 yards and 15 touchdowns last year, scoring 105 points.
It's a tough loss for Del Val, but Columbo said the team is moving on. He was pleased with how his team performed. Senior John Beriont will move from quarterback to running back. Senior Brian Comerford will start at quarterback.
Columbo believes his team's strength is its line.
New Providence's Frank Bottone and Scotch Plains-Fanwood's Steve Ciccotelli share somewhat of the same opinion about the change in how their peers handle pre-season practice. Columbo also has similar thoughts.
"There's really no practice start date right now," said Ciccotelli, in his 17th year at SP-F. "What's the purpose. If some of those guys had their way, the start of practice would be the day after graduation. It's really become out of control.
"When do you give the kids a break?,'' he said. "You have to let them step away and trust what you believe in."
Scotch Plains-Fanwood didn't participate in any summer activities, including 7-on-7 games. Bottone's New Providence club did one against Orange.
"I think I was down to the school this summer more than I've ever been," said Bottone, in his 43rd year. "Everybody is pushing it now. It's really a full time job. For years we've started on September 1. The kids worked out on their own."
Columbo said the New Jersey State Athletic Association should just say, "you can't have anything to do with the kids until practice begins in August.
"I've been doing this for 20 years and it doesn't matter what you do in the summer. It's really out of control now," Columbo said. "You never have all your kids in the summer and you never really have the kids where you think they'll play anyway."
New Providence's field is being resurfaced down. The Pioneers will have FieldTurf by sometime in early October. Their season-opener against Newark Central, scheduled for home, may be moved to Newark, Bottone said. The Pioneers then have road games at Rahway and Brearley before their next scheduled home game Oct. 6 with Roselle Park.
Delaware Valley scrimmaged Pope John of Sparta this afternoon. Delaware Valley head coach Mike Columbo told me that one of our area's leading scorers -- halfback Richie Gebert -- has decided not to come out, so he can focus on wrestling. Gebert, a senior, rushed for 1,400 yards and 15 touchdowns last year, scoring 105 points.
It's a tough loss for Del Val, but Columbo said the team is moving on. He was pleased with how his team performed. Senior John Beriont will move from quarterback to running back. Senior Brian Comerford will start at quarterback.
Columbo believes his team's strength is its line.
New Providence's Frank Bottone and Scotch Plains-Fanwood's Steve Ciccotelli share somewhat of the same opinion about the change in how their peers handle pre-season practice. Columbo also has similar thoughts.
"There's really no practice start date right now," said Ciccotelli, in his 17th year at SP-F. "What's the purpose. If some of those guys had their way, the start of practice would be the day after graduation. It's really become out of control.
"When do you give the kids a break?,'' he said. "You have to let them step away and trust what you believe in."
Scotch Plains-Fanwood didn't participate in any summer activities, including 7-on-7 games. Bottone's New Providence club did one against Orange.
"I think I was down to the school this summer more than I've ever been," said Bottone, in his 43rd year. "Everybody is pushing it now. It's really a full time job. For years we've started on September 1. The kids worked out on their own."
Columbo said the New Jersey State Athletic Association should just say, "you can't have anything to do with the kids until practice begins in August.
"I've been doing this for 20 years and it doesn't matter what you do in the summer. It's really out of control now," Columbo said. "You never have all your kids in the summer and you never really have the kids where you think they'll play anyway."
New Providence's field is being resurfaced down. The Pioneers will have FieldTurf by sometime in early October. Their season-opener against Newark Central, scheduled for home, may be moved to Newark, Bottone said. The Pioneers then have road games at Rahway and Brearley before their next scheduled home game Oct. 6 with Roselle Park.
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
Tuesday thoughts
Immaculata isn't the only school in Somerville with great numbers coming out for its football team.
Somerville High head coach Greg Arakelian told me a couple of weeks ago that the Pioneers would have to cut players for the first time in his 13 years with the program. He told me that 84 youngsters signed up for the team, but the program couldn't afford carrying all of them.
Arakelian did have to make the cuts.
"It's probably the toughest thing I have ever had to do as a coach," he said. "We had some good kids who had trained during the summer, who really put a lot into it and we had to cut them. We wanted to be as thorough as possible. We didn't want to cheat the kids."
Arakelian, in his first year as head coach after serving as former coach Kevin Carty's line coach for 12 years, said the Pioneers are filming every practice, then analyzing them the same day.
Somerville was scheduled to play host to Warren Hills Tuesday in a scrimmage, but because of the rain the scrimmage has been shifted to Warren Hills Wednesday.
If Brooks Field is the worst in the Skyland Conference, Warren Hills' can't be too far behind.
Somerville High head coach Greg Arakelian told me a couple of weeks ago that the Pioneers would have to cut players for the first time in his 13 years with the program. He told me that 84 youngsters signed up for the team, but the program couldn't afford carrying all of them.
Arakelian did have to make the cuts.
"It's probably the toughest thing I have ever had to do as a coach," he said. "We had some good kids who had trained during the summer, who really put a lot into it and we had to cut them. We wanted to be as thorough as possible. We didn't want to cheat the kids."
Arakelian, in his first year as head coach after serving as former coach Kevin Carty's line coach for 12 years, said the Pioneers are filming every practice, then analyzing them the same day.
Somerville was scheduled to play host to Warren Hills Tuesday in a scrimmage, but because of the rain the scrimmage has been shifted to Warren Hills Wednesday.
If Brooks Field is the worst in the Skyland Conference, Warren Hills' can't be too far behind.
Sunday, August 19, 2007
Some stuff
Cranford entered the Mountain Valley Conference last year in every sport but football. Next month, the Cougars begin their first football season in the MVC after spending years in the Watchung Conference.
We only have two schools we cover left in the MVC. Governor Livingston will be the one school that will play Cranford.
"Their football numbers are up, they have lights, night games and they put their games on television live," Governor Livingston coach Terry Hanratty said. "They are really putting it together."
It's a pretty solid league, the Mountain Valley Mountain Division. Rahway is supposed to be very good and A.L. Johnson has been good. And then there's Roselle, Hillside and now Cranford.
South Hunterdon coach Jim Meert is in his second year with the Eagles. South Hunterdon was 1-9 last year, but it might improve a bit this year. The Eagles have two solid players in quarterback/defensive back Brian Snell and fullback/linebacker Kyle Hart.
South Hunterdon went to Penn State during the summer where it competed in a 7-on-7 camp. The Eagles were probably the only team that came with seven players.
"I think we have six really good players," Meert said. "Kyle Hart could have played fullback for any team I've ever coached except when we had Mike Carr (at Hunterdon Central) and I think Brian can be a Division I defensive back."
We only have two schools we cover left in the MVC. Governor Livingston will be the one school that will play Cranford.
"Their football numbers are up, they have lights, night games and they put their games on television live," Governor Livingston coach Terry Hanratty said. "They are really putting it together."
It's a pretty solid league, the Mountain Valley Mountain Division. Rahway is supposed to be very good and A.L. Johnson has been good. And then there's Roselle, Hillside and now Cranford.
South Hunterdon coach Jim Meert is in his second year with the Eagles. South Hunterdon was 1-9 last year, but it might improve a bit this year. The Eagles have two solid players in quarterback/defensive back Brian Snell and fullback/linebacker Kyle Hart.
South Hunterdon went to Penn State during the summer where it competed in a 7-on-7 camp. The Eagles were probably the only team that came with seven players.
"I think we have six really good players," Meert said. "Kyle Hart could have played fullback for any team I've ever coached except when we had Mike Carr (at Hunterdon Central) and I think Brian can be a Division I defensive back."
Friday, August 17, 2007
nicks and nacks
The pursuit of high school football information for 2007 continues.
Spoke to Dunellen coach Dave DeNapoli tonight. The Destroyers run a very unique offense -- the double wing.
"There's no splits whatsover," DeNapoli said. "We have two tight ends, two wingbacks, two fullbacks. The fullback is right behind the quarterback. We basically bring everybody in. I always felt it was the best way to give a weak team a chance to win."
DeNapoli said he got the idea a few years ago when the Destroyers were beaten by Middlesex and were dominated in time of possession.
Dunellen has a good group of skill players back this year. They will lack size. DeNapoli is hoping the offensive scheme can help.
Dunellen opens the season has a rugged scrimmage Tuesday morning at Columbia Park with North 2, Group I defending champion Verona and Group IV Perth Amboy. A surprise on the schedule will come Sept. 22 when the Destroyers play host to Wildwood, which has re-started its football program. Dunellen is now part of a very deep North 2, Group I bracket, which includes the aforementioned Verona, Belvidere, New Providence and Hoboken.
Governor Livingston will start the season without senior quarterback Tyler George, who broke his right hand playing basketball. GL coach Terry Hanratty said that George may be ready to play week three against Newark Central Sept. 20.
The Highlanders lost the area's leading scorer in the versatile Matt Zimmerman and tight end Matt Boyer. Players like senior fullback Joey Gilfedder and linebacker Matt Fullowan and four-year starting linebacker Joe Natale will play big roles. Look for sophomore Max Machado to fill in for George at quarterback.
Funny twist of the schedule for Bound Brook. The Crusaders will play North Warren twice in the regular season. Bound Brook plays the Patriots at home Friday night Sept. 14, then plays at North Warren Oct. 12. I can't recall two teams playing each other twice in the same regular season. It has happened in the playoffs.
In 1999, Hunterdon Central lost to West Windsor Plainsboro in the last week of the regular season, then beat the same team in the first round of the Central Jersey Group IV playoffs. Central beat Piscataway for the that year.
Spoke to Dunellen coach Dave DeNapoli tonight. The Destroyers run a very unique offense -- the double wing.
"There's no splits whatsover," DeNapoli said. "We have two tight ends, two wingbacks, two fullbacks. The fullback is right behind the quarterback. We basically bring everybody in. I always felt it was the best way to give a weak team a chance to win."
DeNapoli said he got the idea a few years ago when the Destroyers were beaten by Middlesex and were dominated in time of possession.
Dunellen has a good group of skill players back this year. They will lack size. DeNapoli is hoping the offensive scheme can help.
Dunellen opens the season has a rugged scrimmage Tuesday morning at Columbia Park with North 2, Group I defending champion Verona and Group IV Perth Amboy. A surprise on the schedule will come Sept. 22 when the Destroyers play host to Wildwood, which has re-started its football program. Dunellen is now part of a very deep North 2, Group I bracket, which includes the aforementioned Verona, Belvidere, New Providence and Hoboken.
Governor Livingston will start the season without senior quarterback Tyler George, who broke his right hand playing basketball. GL coach Terry Hanratty said that George may be ready to play week three against Newark Central Sept. 20.
The Highlanders lost the area's leading scorer in the versatile Matt Zimmerman and tight end Matt Boyer. Players like senior fullback Joey Gilfedder and linebacker Matt Fullowan and four-year starting linebacker Joe Natale will play big roles. Look for sophomore Max Machado to fill in for George at quarterback.
Funny twist of the schedule for Bound Brook. The Crusaders will play North Warren twice in the regular season. Bound Brook plays the Patriots at home Friday night Sept. 14, then plays at North Warren Oct. 12. I can't recall two teams playing each other twice in the same regular season. It has happened in the playoffs.
In 1999, Hunterdon Central lost to West Windsor Plainsboro in the last week of the regular season, then beat the same team in the first round of the Central Jersey Group IV playoffs. Central beat Piscataway for the that year.
Thursday, August 16, 2007
and another....another
Tuesday we wrote about Bound Brook senior wide receiver Deven Baker, who has committed to playing at Division I-A Temple next year. I wrote that lineman Mike Sandusky, who went on to play football, wrestle and throw the shot at Maryland, was the last Crusader to earn a D-1 scholarship in 1954. But...but....
Well, we found out about a few other Crusaders who also did it
We ran a clarification Wednesday. Bound Brook running back Donnie Iarkowski, who was one of the standouts of the BBHS '64 club, was an all-around athlete, who was also a Division I football scholarship player.
He went to the University of Tulsa. I remember watching Iarowski play and he was a tremendous player. He had an outstanding season with the Tulsa freshman team in 1965, but suffered what turned out to be a career-ending injury.
On that same BBHS '64 team was two-way tackle Tom Sinibaldi, who earned a football AND wrestling scholarship. It was a partial scholarship for both sports, according to Sinibaldi, who I spoke to this afternoon. Sinibaldi played football at Maryland for two years and wrestled for four.
Also, quarterbacks Alan Beatty -- who would eventually coach Bound Brook -- was on the '64 team and went to the University of Connecticut. Chuck Fox, who played some quarterback on the '65 team as a junior, played at Colgate.
I think that's it for now. The bottom line -- Baker is the first Crusader to get a D-1 scholarship in a long, long time.
Well, we found out about a few other Crusaders who also did it
We ran a clarification Wednesday. Bound Brook running back Donnie Iarkowski, who was one of the standouts of the BBHS '64 club, was an all-around athlete, who was also a Division I football scholarship player.
He went to the University of Tulsa. I remember watching Iarowski play and he was a tremendous player. He had an outstanding season with the Tulsa freshman team in 1965, but suffered what turned out to be a career-ending injury.
On that same BBHS '64 team was two-way tackle Tom Sinibaldi, who earned a football AND wrestling scholarship. It was a partial scholarship for both sports, according to Sinibaldi, who I spoke to this afternoon. Sinibaldi played football at Maryland for two years and wrestled for four.
Also, quarterbacks Alan Beatty -- who would eventually coach Bound Brook -- was on the '64 team and went to the University of Connecticut. Chuck Fox, who played some quarterback on the '65 team as a junior, played at Colgate.
I think that's it for now. The bottom line -- Baker is the first Crusader to get a D-1 scholarship in a long, long time.
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
My bad
I made an omission in the newspaper Wednesday in our story about Bound Brook senior wide receiver Deven Baker.
Deven is headed to Temple University on a football scholarship. He is the first Crusader to earn a Division I football scholarship since Donald Iarkowski in 1965. Iarkowski was a terrific back for the Crusaders and got a scholarship to play at Tulsa University, a Division I program.
Now, I've got to do a bit more checking. But I think I got this one straightened out. I should have known better.
Tennessee beat Tulsa 27-6 in the 1965 Bluebonnet Bowl in Houston. Five players on that team were drafted by NFL and AFL teams.
Deven is headed to Temple University on a football scholarship. He is the first Crusader to earn a Division I football scholarship since Donald Iarkowski in 1965. Iarkowski was a terrific back for the Crusaders and got a scholarship to play at Tulsa University, a Division I program.
Now, I've got to do a bit more checking. But I think I got this one straightened out. I should have known better.
Tennessee beat Tulsa 27-6 in the 1965 Bluebonnet Bowl in Houston. Five players on that team were drafted by NFL and AFL teams.
Scotch Plains-Fanwood and Westfield
The Raiders and Blue Devils -- that would be Scotch Plains-Fanwood and Westfield respectively -- played one of the better games of the year last year.
Westfield, 1-9 in 2006, beat Scotch Plains-Fanwood 28-21 on its way to a 6-4 season. Westfield didn't make the state playoffs, but Scotch Plains-Fanwood did. The Raiders finished 4-6.
Will it be different for either?
Westfield will come into the season with a four-game winning streak and without versatile quarterback Tom Bonard, now at Montclair State.
Here's part of what's back -- Malcolm Allen, the senior running back, rushed for seven scores last year and junior Ricardo Johnson, who returned two kickoffs for touchdowns last year, could become one of the more exciting players in the area. Senior Joe Val Llobera should be a impact player at linebacker.
Senior middle linebacker/tight end Keith Baker, who has committed to playing at Temple University, should be a dominating player on both sides of the ball for Scotch Plains-Fanwood. The Raiders are going to be different, having graduated backs Tom Pennella, Greg Brand and the versatile Kyle Rowbotham.
Quarterback Mike Chervenyak returns after throwing eight touchdown passes last year. He'll have receivers Kyle Mihansky and Marcus Green to throw to along with Baker. Junior fullback Kameron Williams and junior tailback Anthony Taylor will be new to the varsity.
Defensive end Jason Boff, senior lineman Mike Alleman and Baker will be the key to the defense. Alleman was the Meet of Champions shot put champion in the spring.
Scotch Plains-Fanwood scrimmages at Immaculata Aug. 31 at 10 a.m.
Westfield, 1-9 in 2006, beat Scotch Plains-Fanwood 28-21 on its way to a 6-4 season. Westfield didn't make the state playoffs, but Scotch Plains-Fanwood did. The Raiders finished 4-6.
Will it be different for either?
Westfield will come into the season with a four-game winning streak and without versatile quarterback Tom Bonard, now at Montclair State.
Here's part of what's back -- Malcolm Allen, the senior running back, rushed for seven scores last year and junior Ricardo Johnson, who returned two kickoffs for touchdowns last year, could become one of the more exciting players in the area. Senior Joe Val Llobera should be a impact player at linebacker.
Senior middle linebacker/tight end Keith Baker, who has committed to playing at Temple University, should be a dominating player on both sides of the ball for Scotch Plains-Fanwood. The Raiders are going to be different, having graduated backs Tom Pennella, Greg Brand and the versatile Kyle Rowbotham.
Quarterback Mike Chervenyak returns after throwing eight touchdown passes last year. He'll have receivers Kyle Mihansky and Marcus Green to throw to along with Baker. Junior fullback Kameron Williams and junior tailback Anthony Taylor will be new to the varsity.
Defensive end Jason Boff, senior lineman Mike Alleman and Baker will be the key to the defense. Alleman was the Meet of Champions shot put champion in the spring.
Scotch Plains-Fanwood scrimmages at Immaculata Aug. 31 at 10 a.m.
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
Can anyone stop the Spartans?
Remember the years before Immaculata left the Mountain Valley Conference for the Skyland Conference?
Remember the folks who said they would have their comeuppance once they joined the Skyland?
Since the move, the Spartans are 26-7 overall and 22-5 against Skyland Conference opponents.
And that’s after their 5-5 first-season in the league.Immaculata went 12-0 last year in winning the state Non-Public III title.
The Spartans should make it to the state playoffs this year with a 21-game winning streak.
Immaculata senior quarterback Frank DeNick returns along with outstanding junior running back Theo Riddick.
Senior running back Mike Kuhn, who missed all of last year with a nagging turf toe injury, is back along with receivers Brad McAdam, T.J. Fabiano and tight end Jim Fisher.
Riddick scored 23 touchdowns last year – 19 rushing, three receiving and one on a 90-yard kickoff return. Kuhn was scheduled to be a No. 2 option behind Riddick last year, but once his injury came, fullback A.J. Albert filled in capably. He was also an outstanding linebacker, earning the Courier News Defensive Player of the Year.
The line took a major hit by graduation, but center Mark Brazinski and lineman Cody Bohler should be very good along with returning starter T.J. Hoppe.Immaculata also has senior kicker Mike Brownett back. He averaged 48.74 per kick, went 38-for-44 in extra point attempts and had six field goals.
The Spartans will miss graduated linemen Jack Rice, Ryan Bennett and Chris Peltack, but – but – they should find a way to come very close – if not equal – what happened last year.The season starts Sept. 7 against Somerville at dusty Brooks Field.
Remember the folks who said they would have their comeuppance once they joined the Skyland?
Since the move, the Spartans are 26-7 overall and 22-5 against Skyland Conference opponents.
And that’s after their 5-5 first-season in the league.Immaculata went 12-0 last year in winning the state Non-Public III title.
The Spartans should make it to the state playoffs this year with a 21-game winning streak.
Immaculata senior quarterback Frank DeNick returns along with outstanding junior running back Theo Riddick.
Senior running back Mike Kuhn, who missed all of last year with a nagging turf toe injury, is back along with receivers Brad McAdam, T.J. Fabiano and tight end Jim Fisher.
Riddick scored 23 touchdowns last year – 19 rushing, three receiving and one on a 90-yard kickoff return. Kuhn was scheduled to be a No. 2 option behind Riddick last year, but once his injury came, fullback A.J. Albert filled in capably. He was also an outstanding linebacker, earning the Courier News Defensive Player of the Year.
The line took a major hit by graduation, but center Mark Brazinski and lineman Cody Bohler should be very good along with returning starter T.J. Hoppe.Immaculata also has senior kicker Mike Brownett back. He averaged 48.74 per kick, went 38-for-44 in extra point attempts and had six field goals.
The Spartans will miss graduated linemen Jack Rice, Ryan Bennett and Chris Peltack, but – but – they should find a way to come very close – if not equal – what happened last year.The season starts Sept. 7 against Somerville at dusty Brooks Field.
Saturday, August 11, 2007
Piscataway stuff
How about this scrimmage to open with -- Piscataway, Immaculata and Don Bosco at Brick Memorial Aug. 21 at 5 p.m.
Piscataway is coming off a disappointing season -- for its standards. The Chiefs were 7-3 last year, losing to Old Bridge (16-13) and Franklin (22-3) in the regular season and Linden (13-12) in the first round of the North 2, Group IV playoffs.
The game with Franklin was probably the Chiefs' worst in years. Of course, Franklin had something to do with it. But Piscataway is hoping to make amends and get back to the North 2, Group IV final.
Senior Marvin Booker, heading to Rutgers next year, is moving from defensive end to linebacker. He'll also play tight end. Senior Rashaun Cooper, who rotated with the graduated Tony Logan at quarterback for lot of last season before Logan was moved to receiver, is the starter. Senior running back Barry Garrard and lineman Mike Harris, Matt Masters and Frank Sulkowski return.
Piscataway is coming off a disappointing season -- for its standards. The Chiefs were 7-3 last year, losing to Old Bridge (16-13) and Franklin (22-3) in the regular season and Linden (13-12) in the first round of the North 2, Group IV playoffs.
The game with Franklin was probably the Chiefs' worst in years. Of course, Franklin had something to do with it. But Piscataway is hoping to make amends and get back to the North 2, Group IV final.
Senior Marvin Booker, heading to Rutgers next year, is moving from defensive end to linebacker. He'll also play tight end. Senior Rashaun Cooper, who rotated with the graduated Tony Logan at quarterback for lot of last season before Logan was moved to receiver, is the starter. Senior running back Barry Garrard and lineman Mike Harris, Matt Masters and Frank Sulkowski return.
Friday, August 10, 2007
Football time
"Official" football practice begins Monday around the state.
I've talked to about a dozen of our coaches to get an early idea of what they have back.
Virtually every school -- no matter the size -- has had some kind of practice since school ended in June. Whether it was 7-on-7 scrimmages or team camps, teams have been drilling.
Immaculata, which won the state Group III non-public title last December, went 12-0 last year. If you could find a club that will challenge the Spartans in the regular season, please let me know. My guess is defending Central Jersey Group IV champ Hunterdon Central. The Spartans won't see them until November 2.
Hunterdon Central did lose Courier News Offensive Player of the Year Mike Weisel and special teams star Kevin Alparone, but the Red Devils have a lot back. Receiver Dan Fitzsimmons caught six touchdown passes last year and returns. Tight end/linebacker Garrett Thul, linebacker Mike Diehl and linebacker/running back Anthony Toresco are back after experiencing a championship title at Rutgers Stadium. Derek Goreczny, a senior corner/wideout returned an interception 47 yards for a score. The Red Devils will be out to unseat four-time defending Skyland East Division champion Phillipsburg.
Bridgewater-Raritan returned Friday from a team camp at Lycoming College in Williamsport, Pa. The Panthers had 70 players between the 10th and 12th grades participate. First-year coach Scott Bray is a Lycoming College graduate. Bridgewater-Raritan went 2-8 last year under outgoing coach Tony Maglione, who is now helping out New Brunswick head coach John Quinn.
Bound Brook has had a busy summer. The Crusaders are coming off a 8-2 season with their first playoff berth since 1978. Senior wide receiver Deven Baker has been offered a scholarship at Temple University and senior Erron Banks has been offered at Towson State. Bound Brook will scrimmage Cardinal McCarrick, Metuchen and Hawthorne.
After a 2-8 season, Bernards will be a team to watch. The Mountaineers have senior quarterback Tony Barone back. Bernards did win two of its last three. They have a ton of players back.
Hillsborough also won two of its last three with a young team. Senior Rocco Mazzagatti, a three-year starter, may be the best lineman in the Skyland Conference. Junior quarterback Mike Daly also returns after earning the job as last year went on. Hillsborough finished 3-7.
Franklin coach Lou Solomon will attempt to get the Warriors out to a better start this year. Franklin did beat Bridgewater-Raritan in its opener, but lost the next three. Versatile senior Gavin Roberts, who has announced his intention of playing at Purdue, will be a fun player to watch. Brian Thompson (cornerback/running back) and Jimmy Ray Ragland (LB/FB) are among the other leaders. Franklin went 5-5 a year ago.
North Plainfield lost quite a few players, but it does return three senior playmakers in Yahad Cobb (OLB/FB/K/P), Devaughn George (SL/HB/DB) and quarterback Bilal Jones. Junior lineman Tyson Chandler is a player with potential and size. He's 6-foot-6, 335 pounds.
Montgomery is a team that may be bound for the top of my sleeper list. The Cougars lost their last three games in '06 and finished 3-7. But quarterback Kevin Watson is back along with tight end Cris Garcia, speedy sophomore receiver JT Tartacoff and senior linebacker Alex Colarusso. Watson is most likely headed to play at the Division I-AA level next year.
It would be unwise to discount Somerville. The Pioneers had a "disappointing" 7-3 season last year missing te Central Jersey Group II playoffs with senior star back Mason Robinson, quarterback Dan DiLella and lineman Len Rutledge. Robinson is now at Rutgers and DiLella is at Albany. Somerville has a first-year coach in Greg Arakelian, who replaces longtime coach Kevin Carty Sr. Senior Steve Robinson, a receiver last year, will head to quarterback. Junior back Williams Watson and senior fullback St. Claire Watson are players to watch on offense. Junior wide receiver Mike Naples caught three touchdown passes last year.
More tomorrow....
I've talked to about a dozen of our coaches to get an early idea of what they have back.
Virtually every school -- no matter the size -- has had some kind of practice since school ended in June. Whether it was 7-on-7 scrimmages or team camps, teams have been drilling.
Immaculata, which won the state Group III non-public title last December, went 12-0 last year. If you could find a club that will challenge the Spartans in the regular season, please let me know. My guess is defending Central Jersey Group IV champ Hunterdon Central. The Spartans won't see them until November 2.
Hunterdon Central did lose Courier News Offensive Player of the Year Mike Weisel and special teams star Kevin Alparone, but the Red Devils have a lot back. Receiver Dan Fitzsimmons caught six touchdown passes last year and returns. Tight end/linebacker Garrett Thul, linebacker Mike Diehl and linebacker/running back Anthony Toresco are back after experiencing a championship title at Rutgers Stadium. Derek Goreczny, a senior corner/wideout returned an interception 47 yards for a score. The Red Devils will be out to unseat four-time defending Skyland East Division champion Phillipsburg.
Bridgewater-Raritan returned Friday from a team camp at Lycoming College in Williamsport, Pa. The Panthers had 70 players between the 10th and 12th grades participate. First-year coach Scott Bray is a Lycoming College graduate. Bridgewater-Raritan went 2-8 last year under outgoing coach Tony Maglione, who is now helping out New Brunswick head coach John Quinn.
Bound Brook has had a busy summer. The Crusaders are coming off a 8-2 season with their first playoff berth since 1978. Senior wide receiver Deven Baker has been offered a scholarship at Temple University and senior Erron Banks has been offered at Towson State. Bound Brook will scrimmage Cardinal McCarrick, Metuchen and Hawthorne.
After a 2-8 season, Bernards will be a team to watch. The Mountaineers have senior quarterback Tony Barone back. Bernards did win two of its last three. They have a ton of players back.
Hillsborough also won two of its last three with a young team. Senior Rocco Mazzagatti, a three-year starter, may be the best lineman in the Skyland Conference. Junior quarterback Mike Daly also returns after earning the job as last year went on. Hillsborough finished 3-7.
Franklin coach Lou Solomon will attempt to get the Warriors out to a better start this year. Franklin did beat Bridgewater-Raritan in its opener, but lost the next three. Versatile senior Gavin Roberts, who has announced his intention of playing at Purdue, will be a fun player to watch. Brian Thompson (cornerback/running back) and Jimmy Ray Ragland (LB/FB) are among the other leaders. Franklin went 5-5 a year ago.
North Plainfield lost quite a few players, but it does return three senior playmakers in Yahad Cobb (OLB/FB/K/P), Devaughn George (SL/HB/DB) and quarterback Bilal Jones. Junior lineman Tyson Chandler is a player with potential and size. He's 6-foot-6, 335 pounds.
Montgomery is a team that may be bound for the top of my sleeper list. The Cougars lost their last three games in '06 and finished 3-7. But quarterback Kevin Watson is back along with tight end Cris Garcia, speedy sophomore receiver JT Tartacoff and senior linebacker Alex Colarusso. Watson is most likely headed to play at the Division I-AA level next year.
It would be unwise to discount Somerville. The Pioneers had a "disappointing" 7-3 season last year missing te Central Jersey Group II playoffs with senior star back Mason Robinson, quarterback Dan DiLella and lineman Len Rutledge. Robinson is now at Rutgers and DiLella is at Albany. Somerville has a first-year coach in Greg Arakelian, who replaces longtime coach Kevin Carty Sr. Senior Steve Robinson, a receiver last year, will head to quarterback. Junior back Williams Watson and senior fullback St. Claire Watson are players to watch on offense. Junior wide receiver Mike Naples caught three touchdown passes last year.
More tomorrow....
Sunday, June 17, 2007
All area update
The first teammers for our all area baseball team -- our coach of the year, player of the year -- have already been contacted, so I'm going to take a page out of colleague Simeon Pincus' book and do a daily look at the positions that were the toughest to pick.
Remember, our all area supplement runs Sunday, June 24.
We do have FIVE -- 5 -- Immaculata first teammers, including our Player of the Year. And I might have been able to sneak another Spartan on that first team. I think every one of them is justified, so that left me with 9 other spots to fill.
Somerville and Hunterdon Central have two. Middlesex, Piscataway, Watchung Hills, Hillsborough and Governor Livingston all have one apiece.
Remember, our all area supplement runs Sunday, June 24.
We do have FIVE -- 5 -- Immaculata first teammers, including our Player of the Year. And I might have been able to sneak another Spartan on that first team. I think every one of them is justified, so that left me with 9 other spots to fill.
Somerville and Hunterdon Central have two. Middlesex, Piscataway, Watchung Hills, Hillsborough and Governor Livingston all have one apiece.
Wednesday, June 13, 2007
All area headache
Take a bow all you baseball players in the Courier News coverage area. You've made it a turbulent life for me the last few days. Picking our all area baseball team is as always a difficult chore and it seems to get tougher with each passing year.
The Skyland Conference alone is deep enough to fill our all area first team, which runs Sunday, June 24th. We also pick a second and third team and a honorable mention.
I have always had this feeling that some kids feel let down if they don't make first team -- feel as if their season was somewhat less than a success. But, believe me, as I peruse the names of the schools we cover -- unfortunately we have just so many spots.
Don't feel bad if you didn't make first team. We have one talented area for baseball talent. I wish everybody could make first team.
I'm going to continue posting baseball stuff on this site -- probably until the last week of June when we have a couple of all star football games to cover.
The Skyland Conference alone is deep enough to fill our all area first team, which runs Sunday, June 24th. We also pick a second and third team and a honorable mention.
I have always had this feeling that some kids feel let down if they don't make first team -- feel as if their season was somewhat less than a success. But, believe me, as I peruse the names of the schools we cover -- unfortunately we have just so many spots.
Don't feel bad if you didn't make first team. We have one talented area for baseball talent. I wish everybody could make first team.
I'm going to continue posting baseball stuff on this site -- probably until the last week of June when we have a couple of all star football games to cover.
Thursday, June 07, 2007
Last team standing
Middlesex.
Who would have thought it....
Not me. The Blue Jays have their prom Friday night in East Brunswick, then have to get back home quick because their state Group I final with Hoboken is Saturday morning at 11 a.m. at Toms River East.
Head coach Mike O'Donnell isn't worried about his team's dilemma. In fact, he believes the early start time Saturday is better.
"They'll know they'll have to be in early," he said.
O'Donnell said that the Middlesex prom used to be on the Friday before Memorial Day, which meant that the Blue Jays would play their state tournament game, then rush to the prom. Now it'll be the other way around.
More on the game later.
Who would have thought it....
Not me. The Blue Jays have their prom Friday night in East Brunswick, then have to get back home quick because their state Group I final with Hoboken is Saturday morning at 11 a.m. at Toms River East.
Head coach Mike O'Donnell isn't worried about his team's dilemma. In fact, he believes the early start time Saturday is better.
"They'll know they'll have to be in early," he said.
O'Donnell said that the Middlesex prom used to be on the Friday before Memorial Day, which meant that the Blue Jays would play their state tournament game, then rush to the prom. Now it'll be the other way around.
More on the game later.
Tuesday, June 05, 2007
Spartans, Middlesex redux
Heard from a colleague or two that the Middlesex fans gave me a nice chant after the Blue Jays rallied to beat Pennsville 8-7 in the state Group I semifinal. Congratulations to Middlesex, which is the last team standing.
See, when we pick against your schools you're supposed to thank us.
First-year head coach Mike O'Donnell has Middlesex in position to win a state group title if it can beat Hoboken Saturday. We'll be at the game.
I spoke to a few people after the Immaculata-Seton Hall Prep game at Harter Road Field. Immaculata coach Tom Gambino said that the teams have been separated by pitching in their last few meetings. Senior lefty Sean McKeown pitched well enough to beat most teams in the state. Immaculata lost 3-0, but Seton Hall Prep's runs were unearned.
Seton Hall Prep starter and winner Evan Danieli pitched a three-hitter against a team that had been averaging more than 11.5 runs per game. Rick Porcello, expected to be among the first picks in Thursday's First-Year Major League Draft, pitched the seventh after Danieli allowed a double to Jack Rice and walked Tom Burke.
I thought Chas Crane did the right thing. He offered at the first pitch and hit a sharp grounder to second. The grounder was turned into a double play, but Crane hit the ball solidly.
Spoke to former Major League pitcher Al Santorini before the game. Santorini, a Union High graduate, played in parts of six Major League seasons with the Braves, Cardinals and Padres. It was great trading names from the late 1960s and 1970s like Clay Kirby and Ollie Brown.
See, when we pick against your schools you're supposed to thank us.
First-year head coach Mike O'Donnell has Middlesex in position to win a state group title if it can beat Hoboken Saturday. We'll be at the game.
I spoke to a few people after the Immaculata-Seton Hall Prep game at Harter Road Field. Immaculata coach Tom Gambino said that the teams have been separated by pitching in their last few meetings. Senior lefty Sean McKeown pitched well enough to beat most teams in the state. Immaculata lost 3-0, but Seton Hall Prep's runs were unearned.
Seton Hall Prep starter and winner Evan Danieli pitched a three-hitter against a team that had been averaging more than 11.5 runs per game. Rick Porcello, expected to be among the first picks in Thursday's First-Year Major League Draft, pitched the seventh after Danieli allowed a double to Jack Rice and walked Tom Burke.
I thought Chas Crane did the right thing. He offered at the first pitch and hit a sharp grounder to second. The grounder was turned into a double play, but Crane hit the ball solidly.
Spoke to former Major League pitcher Al Santorini before the game. Santorini, a Union High graduate, played in parts of six Major League seasons with the Braves, Cardinals and Padres. It was great trading names from the late 1960s and 1970s like Clay Kirby and Ollie Brown.
Monday, June 04, 2007
Blue Jays, Spartans and RIP Clete
I guess Pennsville and Seton Hall Prep should beware. I've picked them to win Tuesday's ballgames against Middlesex (State Group I semifinal) and Immaculata (Non-Public A final).
Pennsville was just a fourth seed in South I, but was able to win another South Jersey title. Pennsville has played a better schedule than Middlesex in the Tri County Classic Division where it was co-champions with Pitman.
Pennsville has eliminated our teams in the past like Middlesex in 2003 and Bernards a year or two earlier. Both of the teams have suffered quite a few losses this year. Pennsville is 16-9 and Middlesex is 16-7.
Middlesex should be able to hit Joel Rios, a right hander, who's 5-2 with a 3.05 earned run average. Blue Jay third baseman Anthony Pace is having some season. He's hitting .455 with 30 hits in 66 at bats with four homers, seven doubles and 26 RBIs. Blue Jay starter Dan Sarao is 4-4 with a Rios-like 3.05 earned run average.
I'm taking Pennsville. Sorry.
Immaculata against Seton Hall Prep. Maybe I've bought all the hype -- OK, hook and line. I'm eager to see Seton Hall Prep 6-foot-9, 230-pound senior righty Evan Danieli throw to a very powerful Immaculata lineup led by unheralded senior catcher Jeff Bland. Could this be a slugfest?
Immaculata senior lefty Sean McKeown is going to have pitch better against SHP than he did in the Somerset County Tournament final against Hillsborough. Immaculata might have the better lineup from top to bottom in this matchup. Just pitch and we should have a classic.
I'm taking Seton Hall Prep because it's the safe pick.
Heard the sad news about former Yankee third baseman Clete Boyer, dying Monday at age 70. I heard Clete stopped by the Southside Bar in South Bound Brook a few years ago with another former Yankee Mickey Rivers. I heard Rivers did some karaoke. The two stopped off after doing a baseball card show in Somerset.
I don't remember Boyer in his prime, but I do remember when was traded for outfielder Bill Robinson before the 1967 season. The Yankees didn't have a suitable replacement for Boyer until they traded for Graig Nettles in 1973. RIP Clete.
Pennsville was just a fourth seed in South I, but was able to win another South Jersey title. Pennsville has played a better schedule than Middlesex in the Tri County Classic Division where it was co-champions with Pitman.
Pennsville has eliminated our teams in the past like Middlesex in 2003 and Bernards a year or two earlier. Both of the teams have suffered quite a few losses this year. Pennsville is 16-9 and Middlesex is 16-7.
Middlesex should be able to hit Joel Rios, a right hander, who's 5-2 with a 3.05 earned run average. Blue Jay third baseman Anthony Pace is having some season. He's hitting .455 with 30 hits in 66 at bats with four homers, seven doubles and 26 RBIs. Blue Jay starter Dan Sarao is 4-4 with a Rios-like 3.05 earned run average.
I'm taking Pennsville. Sorry.
Immaculata against Seton Hall Prep. Maybe I've bought all the hype -- OK, hook and line. I'm eager to see Seton Hall Prep 6-foot-9, 230-pound senior righty Evan Danieli throw to a very powerful Immaculata lineup led by unheralded senior catcher Jeff Bland. Could this be a slugfest?
Immaculata senior lefty Sean McKeown is going to have pitch better against SHP than he did in the Somerset County Tournament final against Hillsborough. Immaculata might have the better lineup from top to bottom in this matchup. Just pitch and we should have a classic.
I'm taking Seton Hall Prep because it's the safe pick.
Heard the sad news about former Yankee third baseman Clete Boyer, dying Monday at age 70. I heard Clete stopped by the Southside Bar in South Bound Brook a few years ago with another former Yankee Mickey Rivers. I heard Rivers did some karaoke. The two stopped off after doing a baseball card show in Somerset.
I don't remember Boyer in his prime, but I do remember when was traded for outfielder Bill Robinson before the 1967 season. The Yankees didn't have a suitable replacement for Boyer until they traded for Graig Nettles in 1973. RIP Clete.
Sunday, June 03, 2007
Warming up for Seton Hall Prep-Immaculata
We're looking forward to Tuesday's North Jersey Non-Public A final at the Harter Road Field in Morris Township at 4 p.m.
Immaculata (24-1) against Seton Hall Prep (30-1).
Here's some Sunday morning tidbits.
A glimpse at the recent history
2006: Seton Hall Prep 5, Immaculata 0 (North Non-Public A final)
2001: Seton Hall Prep 4, Immaculata 3 (North Non-Public A final)
2000: Seton Hall Prep 6, Immaculata 5 (North Non-Public A final)
1998: Seton Hall Prep 13, Immaculata 6 (sectional semifinal)
1992: Immaculata 7, Seton Hall Prep 4 (sectional first round)
1988: Seton Hall Prep 15, Immaculata 6 (sectional first round)
Seton Hall Prep scheduled starter Evan Danieli, who lives in East Hanover, is 10-0 with an 0.50 earned run average. He has struck out 75 in 56 innings, walking 24. The senior righthy pitched Seton Hall Prep to a 14-0 sectional quarterfinal win against St. Peter Prep, striking out 14, walking one and allowing four hits. The 6-foot-9, 230-pounder is headed to Notre Dame.
By the way, we haven't forgotten about Middlesex. The Blue Jays will play Pennsville in the state Group I semifinal Tuesday at Raritan High School. We'll preview that game later on.
Immaculata (24-1) against Seton Hall Prep (30-1).
Here's some Sunday morning tidbits.
A glimpse at the recent history
2006: Seton Hall Prep 5, Immaculata 0 (North Non-Public A final)
2001: Seton Hall Prep 4, Immaculata 3 (North Non-Public A final)
2000: Seton Hall Prep 6, Immaculata 5 (North Non-Public A final)
1998: Seton Hall Prep 13, Immaculata 6 (sectional semifinal)
1992: Immaculata 7, Seton Hall Prep 4 (sectional first round)
1988: Seton Hall Prep 15, Immaculata 6 (sectional first round)
Seton Hall Prep scheduled starter Evan Danieli, who lives in East Hanover, is 10-0 with an 0.50 earned run average. He has struck out 75 in 56 innings, walking 24. The senior righthy pitched Seton Hall Prep to a 14-0 sectional quarterfinal win against St. Peter Prep, striking out 14, walking one and allowing four hits. The 6-foot-9, 230-pounder is headed to Notre Dame.
By the way, we haven't forgotten about Middlesex. The Blue Jays will play Pennsville in the state Group I semifinal Tuesday at Raritan High School. We'll preview that game later on.
Friday, June 01, 2007
Sad day in Hamilton
Senior catcher Matt Sadin's absence from the Hillsborough High School lineup wasn't the reason the Raiders lost to Steinert 5-0 in the Central Jersey Group IV final today. But it didn't help. His leadership, defense and offense were missed.
Sadin had to sit out since he was disciplined for having his cel phone on in class, Raider coach Norm Hewitt said. Hillsborough Athletic Director Mike Fannizzi called the Hillsborough bus as it headed to the game Friday afternoon to tell Hewitt that the decision was final.
Sophomore Matt Mosko was quickly told that he would be stepping in for Sadin. Mosko made his first varsity start May 22 against Franklin. But a state sectional final is a bit different than a regular season game with Franklin.
Mosko had some tough plays and one Steinert run scored when he overthrew third baseman Sean MacDonald. Mosko won't forget this day and he'll be a better player for it.
Hewitt told us after the game that he will sit out this Wednesday's season-finale game at Watchung Hills.
Hewitt and head softball coach Cheryl Iaione were suspended a game because their teams practiced May 17 -- the day after a student made a terrorist threat at the high school -- on a field off the Hillsborough High campus. Hillsborough has three games left -- Watchung Hills Tueday at home; at Immaculata at HealthQuest Wednesday and Thursday at Watchung Hills.
Home plate umpire Dave Vivino did a great job in keeping things in order in Hamilton. The Spartans public address announcer pushed the envelope with the entertainment. A couple of times, Vivino briefly stopped the game to scold the kid when the music continued as the Raiders or Spartans batted. Vivino informed the kid with the microphone that either the music stopped or there would be no public address activities.
Sadin had to sit out since he was disciplined for having his cel phone on in class, Raider coach Norm Hewitt said. Hillsborough Athletic Director Mike Fannizzi called the Hillsborough bus as it headed to the game Friday afternoon to tell Hewitt that the decision was final.
Sophomore Matt Mosko was quickly told that he would be stepping in for Sadin. Mosko made his first varsity start May 22 against Franklin. But a state sectional final is a bit different than a regular season game with Franklin.
Mosko had some tough plays and one Steinert run scored when he overthrew third baseman Sean MacDonald. Mosko won't forget this day and he'll be a better player for it.
Hewitt told us after the game that he will sit out this Wednesday's season-finale game at Watchung Hills.
Hewitt and head softball coach Cheryl Iaione were suspended a game because their teams practiced May 17 -- the day after a student made a terrorist threat at the high school -- on a field off the Hillsborough High campus. Hillsborough has three games left -- Watchung Hills Tueday at home; at Immaculata at HealthQuest Wednesday and Thursday at Watchung Hills.
Home plate umpire Dave Vivino did a great job in keeping things in order in Hamilton. The Spartans public address announcer pushed the envelope with the entertainment. A couple of times, Vivino briefly stopped the game to scold the kid when the music continued as the Raiders or Spartans batted. Vivino informed the kid with the microphone that either the music stopped or there would be no public address activities.
Thursday, May 31, 2007
Immaculata wins division
Since Hillsborough lost to Montgomery Wednesday afternoon, Immaculata clinched the Skyland Conference East Division title. Not saying that Immaculata backed in. The Spartans are 15-0 in divisional play. (So let's not mis-interpret).
Hillsborough is 11-2 in divisional games. Immaculata beat the Raiders 9-4 April 10 in a regular season game at HealthQuest Park. They topped the Raiders 12-11 in 10 innings the Somerset County Tournament final. Of course, that game doeesn't count toward the division.
Hillsborough Athletic Director Mike Fannizzi told me Thursday afternoon that the Raiders intend to complete their regular season schedule. Hillsborough has two games left with Watchung Hills and another with Immaculata. The game with Immaculata is scheduled for next Wednesday at HealthQuest Park in Raritan Township.
The games with Watchung Hills will be scheduled depending on how the Raiders do Friday in the Central Jersey Group IV final with Steinert. The games with Watchung Hills are tentatively scheduled for Tuesday in Hillsborough -- the day Hillsborough would play a state semifinal game if it won Friday -- and Thursday in Warren.
Hillsborough won the Skyland East last year when Tim Fedroff hit a walk-off homer against Immaculata in Hillsborough.
Hillsborough is 11-2 in divisional games. Immaculata beat the Raiders 9-4 April 10 in a regular season game at HealthQuest Park. They topped the Raiders 12-11 in 10 innings the Somerset County Tournament final. Of course, that game doeesn't count toward the division.
Hillsborough Athletic Director Mike Fannizzi told me Thursday afternoon that the Raiders intend to complete their regular season schedule. Hillsborough has two games left with Watchung Hills and another with Immaculata. The game with Immaculata is scheduled for next Wednesday at HealthQuest Park in Raritan Township.
The games with Watchung Hills will be scheduled depending on how the Raiders do Friday in the Central Jersey Group IV final with Steinert. The games with Watchung Hills are tentatively scheduled for Tuesday in Hillsborough -- the day Hillsborough would play a state semifinal game if it won Friday -- and Thursday in Warren.
Hillsborough won the Skyland East last year when Tim Fedroff hit a walk-off homer against Immaculata in Hillsborough.
Wednesday, May 30, 2007
Immaculata news
Immaculata's Non-Public A Tournament semifinal will be held Friday at 2 p.m. at HealthQuest Park at the Cust Baseball Academy.
Roselle Catholic may start senior Billy Murphy, who'll play at Rutgers next year. Immaculata will start senior lefty Sean McKeown, headed to play at Marist.
The Hillsborough-Immaculata battle for the Skyland Conference East Division title hasn't been played out yet.
The Spartans have clinched a share of the title. They are 15-0 in divisional play. Hillsborough, which is scheduled to play host to Montgomery today, is 11-1 -- its only loss to Immaculata.
Hillsborough also has two games left with Watchung Hills. The second game with Immaculata is scheduled to play next Wednesday (June 6) at HealthQuest Park.
Roselle Catholic may start senior Billy Murphy, who'll play at Rutgers next year. Immaculata will start senior lefty Sean McKeown, headed to play at Marist.
The Hillsborough-Immaculata battle for the Skyland Conference East Division title hasn't been played out yet.
The Spartans have clinched a share of the title. They are 15-0 in divisional play. Hillsborough, which is scheduled to play host to Montgomery today, is 11-1 -- its only loss to Immaculata.
Hillsborough also has two games left with Watchung Hills. The second game with Immaculata is scheduled to play next Wednesday (June 6) at HealthQuest Park.
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
Busy Tuesday
A very busy day with sectional semifinals -- and don't forget Immaculata in the Non-Public A quarterfinals.
At one point, I was primed to talk about how the Skyland Conference dominated. The league did well enough - Hackettstown, Hillsborough, Immaculata, Somerville all advanced. So that's 4-2. Hunterdon Central and Phillipsburg lost.
What could have been -- Central had a 6-2 lead at top-seed Steinert (Hamilton East) in the Central Jersey Group IV semis, but Steinert ralled to win 8-7 in the bottom of the seventh. Hillsborough won, so it's Steinert-Hillsborough in the sectional final Friday in Hamilton. But it could have been Central-Hillsborough. Oh well.
Phillipsburg also got knocked out by Westfield 9-4 in the North 2, Group IV semi. Nice job by the Blue Devils, who really hit the ball early in the game. They'll play at Edison Friday. Its Wesfield's first sectional final since 1995. They haven't won one since 1988.
Immaculata thumped Bergen Catholic 17-2 and will now play host to Roselle Catholic at 1 p.m. Friday at HealthQuest Park.
I was at Somerville-New Providence game at White Oak Park.
The story was Somerville junior left hander Ryan Zamorsky, who pitched a complete-game, six hitter, striking out 10 and allowing two walks. He also made a terrific play in the fifth inning, fielding a slow roller and throwing home instead of going to first to keep the score tied at one. He and catcher Chris DeMarco hooked up to nail a New Providence baserunner who was attempting to score.
Somerville went ahead in the bottom of the inning on junior Eric Karpinski's two-out, pinch hit base hit. The Somerville Pioneers (New Providence is also called the Pioneers) got two outstanding defensive plays by first baseman Mike Mottes and second baseman Dan Reynolds in the seventh to close out a 2-1 win.
I like the Pioneers to win the CJ Group II title Friday in Branchburg against Spotswood. Spotswood has to play the Greater Middlesex Conference Tournament final Saturday and will use its ace Will Beard against J.P. Stevens in that game. Who knows. Call me a shill, but I've been on the Ville bandwagon for awhile.
After the game, longtime New Providence coach Tom Beck told us that he is stepping down to accept a job with Weichert Reality in Seminole, Fla. Beck said they made him a offer he couldn't refuse. Good luck to Tommy.
Middlesex and its first-year head coach Mike O'Donnell advanced to the Central Jersey Group I final Friday against Metuchen. The Blue Jays beat Metuchen 12-1 and 3-1 during the regular season.
At one point, I was primed to talk about how the Skyland Conference dominated. The league did well enough - Hackettstown, Hillsborough, Immaculata, Somerville all advanced. So that's 4-2. Hunterdon Central and Phillipsburg lost.
What could have been -- Central had a 6-2 lead at top-seed Steinert (Hamilton East) in the Central Jersey Group IV semis, but Steinert ralled to win 8-7 in the bottom of the seventh. Hillsborough won, so it's Steinert-Hillsborough in the sectional final Friday in Hamilton. But it could have been Central-Hillsborough. Oh well.
Phillipsburg also got knocked out by Westfield 9-4 in the North 2, Group IV semi. Nice job by the Blue Devils, who really hit the ball early in the game. They'll play at Edison Friday. Its Wesfield's first sectional final since 1995. They haven't won one since 1988.
Immaculata thumped Bergen Catholic 17-2 and will now play host to Roselle Catholic at 1 p.m. Friday at HealthQuest Park.
I was at Somerville-New Providence game at White Oak Park.
The story was Somerville junior left hander Ryan Zamorsky, who pitched a complete-game, six hitter, striking out 10 and allowing two walks. He also made a terrific play in the fifth inning, fielding a slow roller and throwing home instead of going to first to keep the score tied at one. He and catcher Chris DeMarco hooked up to nail a New Providence baserunner who was attempting to score.
Somerville went ahead in the bottom of the inning on junior Eric Karpinski's two-out, pinch hit base hit. The Somerville Pioneers (New Providence is also called the Pioneers) got two outstanding defensive plays by first baseman Mike Mottes and second baseman Dan Reynolds in the seventh to close out a 2-1 win.
I like the Pioneers to win the CJ Group II title Friday in Branchburg against Spotswood. Spotswood has to play the Greater Middlesex Conference Tournament final Saturday and will use its ace Will Beard against J.P. Stevens in that game. Who knows. Call me a shill, but I've been on the Ville bandwagon for awhile.
After the game, longtime New Providence coach Tom Beck told us that he is stepping down to accept a job with Weichert Reality in Seminole, Fla. Beck said they made him a offer he couldn't refuse. Good luck to Tommy.
Middlesex and its first-year head coach Mike O'Donnell advanced to the Central Jersey Group I final Friday against Metuchen. The Blue Jays beat Metuchen 12-1 and 3-1 during the regular season.
Saturday, May 26, 2007
HAIL MUSTANGS
Congratulations to Manville. The Mustangs finished their season with a stunning 10-9 win over Somerville Saturday morning in Branchburg in eight innings.
I talked to Somerville head coach Rick Sabol a couple of hours after the game and he praised Manville for the comeback. Somerville, which clinched the Skyland Conference Raritan Division title earlier in the week, squandered a 9-5 lead.
Too many times, we spend a lot of energy on why the heavily favored team -- in this case Somerville -- didn't win. What went wrong, etc. But Sabol didn't make any excuses.
"Hey, good for them," Sabol said.
Manville's Robert Wood hit a grand slam in the top of the seventh to tie the game at 9, then Tom Rock tripled and scored on Kyle Sopko's sacrifice fly in the eighth to win it.
It was a great season-ending win for Manville, which finished at 6-14.
Somerville now prepares for its Central Jersey Group II semifinal Tuesday against New Providence in Branchburg. Hard to believe, but Somerville has won just one sectional title -- that was in 1973 when Sabol was the Pioneers starting shortstop.
I talked to Somerville head coach Rick Sabol a couple of hours after the game and he praised Manville for the comeback. Somerville, which clinched the Skyland Conference Raritan Division title earlier in the week, squandered a 9-5 lead.
Too many times, we spend a lot of energy on why the heavily favored team -- in this case Somerville -- didn't win. What went wrong, etc. But Sabol didn't make any excuses.
"Hey, good for them," Sabol said.
Manville's Robert Wood hit a grand slam in the top of the seventh to tie the game at 9, then Tom Rock tripled and scored on Kyle Sopko's sacrifice fly in the eighth to win it.
It was a great season-ending win for Manville, which finished at 6-14.
Somerville now prepares for its Central Jersey Group II semifinal Tuesday against New Providence in Branchburg. Hard to believe, but Somerville has won just one sectional title -- that was in 1973 when Sabol was the Pioneers starting shortstop.
Some stuff
We had a story on Thursday night's Somerset County Tournament final at Commerce Bank Ballpark in Saturday's paper.
Courier News Online - Baseball: Epic county final wasn't pretty, but it was fi
I'm going to post some comments from Hillsborough head coach Norm Hewitt about the county final over the weekend, so please feel free to check in. Also, there's a couple of other trivial type notes that I still haven't posted as yet.
Nice job by the Raiders for rebounding from the 12-11 crushing loss to Immaculata in the county final Thursday night by beating North Brunswick 7-1 Friday in the Central Jersey Group IV quarterfinals. They'll play host to South Brunswick Tuesday in the section semis. Hunterdon Central plays at Hamilton East in the other semifinal. Boy, a Central-Hillsborough final would be something.
The Skyland Conference Delaware East Division has yet to be won. Immaculata is on top in the division with a 15-0 record and has just one divisional game left -- against second-place Hillsborough. Hillsborough is 11-1 in divisional play -- its only loss to Immaculata 9-4. Hillsborough has four divisional games left -- two with Watchung Hills, one with Montgomery and another with Immaculata.
Eight schools are left in the state tournament, which will resume Tuesday with public school sectional semifinals. Middlesex (CJ I), Hillsborough, Hunterdon Central (CJIV), Immaculata (Non-Public A), New Providence and Somerville (CJII), Scotch Plains-Fanwood (North 2, III), Westfield (North 2, IV). We have a local matchup and one-near local. New Providence plays at White Oak Park in Branchburg against Somerville and Westfield plays at Phillipsburg.
Courier News Online - Baseball: Epic county final wasn't pretty, but it was fi
I'm going to post some comments from Hillsborough head coach Norm Hewitt about the county final over the weekend, so please feel free to check in. Also, there's a couple of other trivial type notes that I still haven't posted as yet.
Nice job by the Raiders for rebounding from the 12-11 crushing loss to Immaculata in the county final Thursday night by beating North Brunswick 7-1 Friday in the Central Jersey Group IV quarterfinals. They'll play host to South Brunswick Tuesday in the section semis. Hunterdon Central plays at Hamilton East in the other semifinal. Boy, a Central-Hillsborough final would be something.
The Skyland Conference Delaware East Division has yet to be won. Immaculata is on top in the division with a 15-0 record and has just one divisional game left -- against second-place Hillsborough. Hillsborough is 11-1 in divisional play -- its only loss to Immaculata 9-4. Hillsborough has four divisional games left -- two with Watchung Hills, one with Montgomery and another with Immaculata.
Eight schools are left in the state tournament, which will resume Tuesday with public school sectional semifinals. Middlesex (CJ I), Hillsborough, Hunterdon Central (CJIV), Immaculata (Non-Public A), New Providence and Somerville (CJII), Scotch Plains-Fanwood (North 2, III), Westfield (North 2, IV). We have a local matchup and one-near local. New Providence plays at White Oak Park in Branchburg against Somerville and Westfield plays at Phillipsburg.
Thursday, May 24, 2007
SCT FINAL stuff
Our deadlines weren't late enough to get the 35th annual Somerset County Tournament final Thursday night in our print editions. I don't know if I would have made it if the deadline was later -- this marathon/epic game will need a whole bunch of newshole to explain.
Immaculata won it 12-11 in the bottom of the 10th when junior second baseman Logan Morello scored on a wild pitch. Immaculata senior first baseman Jack Rice was the game's MVP. I can tell you that we ran through about a dozen candidates in this wild, wild game that took about four hours to complete.
The Spartans have won 11 county titles since winning its first title in 1991.
Hillsborough (16-4) 104-100-210-2-11-13-3
Immaculata (22-1) 212-001-210-3-12-12-5
2B: H--Sadin, Schwalje, I—Bland, Rice, Bernhardt. 3B: I—Rice, Morello ; HR—Marquis, Bland. WP—Burke (1-0). LP—Swickle (4-2)
Boxscore
Hillsborough
Giralo (RF) 6-1-1-0
Towey (SS) 6-4-3-0
Swickle (1B) 4-2-2-0
Hansford (LF) 4-1-1-1
Sadin (C) 4-2-3-4
Fessak (CR)
MacDonald (3B) 5-0-0-0
Zygmund (CF) 3-0-1-0
Schwalje (2B) 5-1-1-2
DeSanto (DH) 5-1-1-2
for Andrews (P)
Immaculata
DeNick (RF) 5-1-2-1
Marquis (CF) 6-1-1-2
Florio (LF) 4-1-0-0
Bland (C) 5-3-2-1
Knabe (CR)
Rice (1B) 5-1-3-2
Burke (SS/P) 3-1-0-0
Crane (3B) 5-0-1-1
Bernhardt (DH) 4-1-1-0
for McKeown (P)
Brownett (PR)
Schoberl (PH for Bernhardt in 10th) 0-1-0-0
Morello (2B) 5-2-2-0
(Some not so) trivial stuff:
Immaculata senior Tom Burke started the game at shortstop, then took over for starter Sean McKeown, who left after eight innings and 119 pitches. Burke had thrown only two innings this year before Thursday. He went two innings in the county final and got the win.
Burke walked three times and scored a run in the seventh when Immaculata rallied to tie the game at eight.
For the second straight county game, Hillsborough leadoff hitter Anthony Giralo hit the first pitch of the game for a single to left field.
With the score tied at nine in the ninth, Immaculata loaded the bases on Mark Bernhardt's leadoff double, Logan Morello's single and a walk to Frank DeNick. But Swickle got Matt Marquis on a pop to third, struck out Frank Florio looking and got Jeff Bland on a pop out to short. The Raiders weren't as lucky in the 10th, but Swickle got two outs before throwing a wild pitch that Morello scored on for the game winner.
There was only one 1-2-3 inning in the entire game. McKeown got Corey Towey on a pop to right, Swickle on a fly to left and Mike Hansford on a pop to short in the sixth.
Swickle and McKeown are next-door neighbors in Hillsborough.
Immaculata won it 12-11 in the bottom of the 10th when junior second baseman Logan Morello scored on a wild pitch. Immaculata senior first baseman Jack Rice was the game's MVP. I can tell you that we ran through about a dozen candidates in this wild, wild game that took about four hours to complete.
The Spartans have won 11 county titles since winning its first title in 1991.
Hillsborough (16-4) 104-100-210-2-11-13-3
Immaculata (22-1) 212-001-210-3-12-12-5
2B: H--Sadin, Schwalje, I—Bland, Rice, Bernhardt. 3B: I—Rice, Morello ; HR—Marquis, Bland. WP—Burke (1-0). LP—Swickle (4-2)
Boxscore
Hillsborough
Giralo (RF) 6-1-1-0
Towey (SS) 6-4-3-0
Swickle (1B) 4-2-2-0
Hansford (LF) 4-1-1-1
Sadin (C) 4-2-3-4
Fessak (CR)
MacDonald (3B) 5-0-0-0
Zygmund (CF) 3-0-1-0
Schwalje (2B) 5-1-1-2
DeSanto (DH) 5-1-1-2
for Andrews (P)
Immaculata
DeNick (RF) 5-1-2-1
Marquis (CF) 6-1-1-2
Florio (LF) 4-1-0-0
Bland (C) 5-3-2-1
Knabe (CR)
Rice (1B) 5-1-3-2
Burke (SS/P) 3-1-0-0
Crane (3B) 5-0-1-1
Bernhardt (DH) 4-1-1-0
for McKeown (P)
Brownett (PR)
Schoberl (PH for Bernhardt in 10th) 0-1-0-0
Morello (2B) 5-2-2-0
(Some not so) trivial stuff:
Immaculata senior Tom Burke started the game at shortstop, then took over for starter Sean McKeown, who left after eight innings and 119 pitches. Burke had thrown only two innings this year before Thursday. He went two innings in the county final and got the win.
Burke walked three times and scored a run in the seventh when Immaculata rallied to tie the game at eight.
For the second straight county game, Hillsborough leadoff hitter Anthony Giralo hit the first pitch of the game for a single to left field.
With the score tied at nine in the ninth, Immaculata loaded the bases on Mark Bernhardt's leadoff double, Logan Morello's single and a walk to Frank DeNick. But Swickle got Matt Marquis on a pop to third, struck out Frank Florio looking and got Jeff Bland on a pop out to short. The Raiders weren't as lucky in the 10th, but Swickle got two outs before throwing a wild pitch that Morello scored on for the game winner.
There was only one 1-2-3 inning in the entire game. McKeown got Corey Towey on a pop to right, Swickle on a fly to left and Mike Hansford on a pop to short in the sixth.
Swickle and McKeown are next-door neighbors in Hillsborough.
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