Durant Soccer Preps for Winning Seasons

Following the success of last year’s soccer seasons, the Durant girls’ and boys’ soccer teams have been working hard to prepare for the 2009 season. After star seniors graduated last year, both teams are dealing with replacing the talent they lost.

While some teams would not be able to recuperate from such heavy losses, the Durant boys’ and girls’ soccer teams are running full speed to score again this season.

“This year we will score more; we relied on defense last year. [I feel] this is the first chance we have for Regionals in a long time,” said girls’ coach Richard Sheffield.

Sheffield is a seasoned soccer coach; he’s been running the team since day one in 1995 at Durant. He has five soccer plaques and one State Championship in his office.

“I’d love to see States again,” he said.

As the girls face their biggest competitors -- East Bay High School and Newsome High School -- in the upcoming season, they are ready to dominate again with their speed and technical skills.

“East Bay didn’t score a goal on us once last year. We played them for 90 minutes and they did not score a single goal,” said Sheffield.

Although the team is strong across the board, what really sets the girls’ team apart from the rest is their goalkeeper, junior Megan Fox.

“She’s in a position to stand out,” said Sheffield.

As a goalie, she is in one of the most unique positions and has been known to make some spectacular, and at the same time graceful saves, according to sweeper Jessie Ross, junior.

One change Sheffield is incorporating this year is that at every home game, one team member is allowed to ask a teacher or other staff member to be an honorary coach to sit on the sidelines during the game.

“I asked my English teacher Mrs. Martin because I want her to better understand why I am always so busy,” said Ross.

If the girls continue to rely on their strong midfield and improving offense, their chances of a victorious season are high, according to Sheffield.

On the opposite end of the gender field, the boys’ team is also facing difficulties in replacing players from last year, after losing all four starting defenders.

This season the team has a lot of young, new players.

“We have five or six new starters who are young guys,” said coach Jamin Hollingsworth.

Thus, the biggest difference between last year and this year is experience on the field.

Freshmen Danny Bowers and Ben Eisenhauer are very excited to play for Durant this year. Playing since they were toddlers, both center midfielders note that high school soccer is different from playing club or league soccer.

“It’s rougher,” said Eisenhauer. “We’re playing against bigger kids who are seniors.”

Among the returning players is senior Billy Fanning, a forward who has signed to play with Florida Gulf Coast University next year. Juniors David Eisenhauer, midfielder, and Connor Bass, goalkeeper, are also some strong players who started last year. The team will need to rely on the experience of the returning players combined with the fresh talent of newcomers to win against their biggest competitor, Bloomingdale Senior High School. The team tied against BSHS in their game against them this year.

Both teams expect to see a winning season.

Bass said, “We dominated last season; [this year] we don’t have as many seniors, but we’ll still do fine.”

Durant Soccer Preps for Winning Seasons

Following the success of last year’s soccer seasons, the Durant girls’ and boys’ soccer teams have been working hard to prepare for the 2009 season. After star seniors graduated last year, both teams are dealing with replacing the talent they lost.

While some teams would not be able to recuperate from such heavy losses, the Durant boys’ and girls’ soccer teams are running full speed to score again this season.

“This year we will score more; we relied on defense last year. [I feel] this is the first chance we have for Regionals in a long time,” said girls’ coach Richard Sheffield.

Sheffield is a seasoned soccer coach; he’s been running the team since day one in 1995 at Durant. He has five soccer plaques and one State Championship in his office.

“I’d love to see States again,” he said.

As the girls face their biggest competitors -- East Bay High School and Newsome High School -- in the upcoming season, they are ready to dominate again with their speed and technical skills.

“East Bay didn’t score a goal on us once last year. We played them for 90 minutes and they did not score a single goal,” said Sheffield.

Although the team is strong across the board, what really sets the girls’ team apart from the rest is their goalkeeper, junior Megan Fox.

“She’s in a position to stand out,” said Sheffield.

As a goalie, she is in one of the most unique positions and has been known to make some spectacular, and at the same time graceful saves, according to sweeper Jessie Ross, junior.

One change Sheffield is incorporating this year is that at every home game, one team member is allowed to ask a teacher or other staff member to be an honorary coach to sit on the sidelines during the game.

“I asked my English teacher Mrs. Martin because I want her to better understand why I am always so busy,” said Ross.

If the girls continue to rely on their strong midfield and improving offense, their chances of a victorious season are high, according to Sheffield.

On the opposite end of the gender field, the boys’ team is also facing difficulties in replacing players from last year, after losing all four starting defenders.

This season the team has a lot of young, new players.

“We have five or six new starters who are young guys,” said coach Jamin Hollingsworth.

Thus, the biggest difference between last year and this year is experience on the field.

Freshmen Danny Bowers and Ben Eisenhauer are very excited to play for Durant this year. Playing since they were toddlers, both center midfielders note that high school soccer is different from playing club or league soccer.

“It’s rougher,” said Eisenhauer. “We’re playing against bigger kids who are seniors.”

Among the returning players is senior Billy Fanning, a forward who has signed to play with Florida Gulf Coast University next year. Juniors David Eisenhauer, midfielder, and Connor Bass, goalkeeper, are also some strong players who started last year. The team will need to rely on the experience of the returning players combined with the fresh talent of newcomers to win against their biggest competitor, Bloomingdale Senior High School. The team tied against BSHS in their game against them this year.

Both teams expect to see a winning season.

Bass said, “We dominated last season; [this year] we don’t have as many seniors, but we’ll still do fine.”

Long Island Ethics Bowl at Bethpage

On Saturday, April 10^th the Squire Family Foundation, along with Bethpage High School, hosted the first annual Long Island Ethics Bowl. The highly-anticipated event gave students the chance to explore the difficult, controversial issues we all face today.

There were a total of twelve teams from schools all over Long Island. Everyone arrived at eight in the morning for a rousing breakfast of mini bagels and muffins. Teams used this precious time to cram for any last second thoughts. Then it was time for round one: shock advertising and poverty tours.



Pairs of teams first debated the ethical issues behind shock advertising. In the scenario a clothing line produced “shocking” advertisements, a picture of a martini glass with a cow’s eye in it for example, to gain attention. It worked, but at what price? When does advertising go too far?

The next case was poverty tours. Is it right to make money off of other’s misfortune, even if it helps them in the long run?

Next up, round two. A woman sold her virginity on the internet to pay of her college loans, but also to make a statement. Technically it was legal, since the act itself would happen in Nevada, where in certain areas, prostitution is legal. Was her decision ethical?

After that case, we discussed how society uses a GDP to measure the value of a human being. Should we measure a person based on how much money they make, or what they contribute to society.

Then we broke for a much-needed lunch. We gobbled down some cookies and sandwiches, while teams went over the up-coming cases. Then they announced the six teams that were moving on to the next round. Both Bethpage teams made it.

Round Three started with the issue of guns in schools. In recent years the occurrences of school shootings have been on the rise. For this reason, people wish to be able to protect themselves. Is it ethical for people to carry guns on college campuses? Or will their presence just add to the volatility of the already stressful environment.

The next case dealt with school newspapers. How far is a school required to go to protect the integrity of its students and paper? Where is the limit of school censuring?

Once the discussions were over, the teams met in the little theater to find the final two teams. Bethpage vs. Roslyn.

So both teams got up on stage, while everyone else looked on. We had the great opportunity of having County Executive, Ed Mangano, as one of the judges for the fourth and final round.

The first case was concerned about the teaching of intelligent design in the science curriculum. Should schools teach creationism along with evolution?

The final case was called “Babies Behind Bars.” Should incarcerated mothers be allowed to raise their young children with them in prison? Well, this is the case with certain jails in Mexico. However, are these the best conditions for raising a child?

Both teams did a fantastic job digging up the ethical issues behind each case and backing themselves up with logic. It was obvious that this was going to be a close call, but no one expected the score. Bethpage199 to Roslyn 200. Just one point!

Well, even though we didn’t win this one, we won’t let it get us down. Bethpage students are now getting prepared for the Stevens Institute Ethics Bowl next month.

Long Island Ethics Bowl at Bethpage

On Saturday, April 10^th the Squire Family Foundation, along with Bethpage High School, hosted the first annual Long Island Ethics Bowl. The highly-anticipated event gave students the chance to explore the difficult, controversial issues we all face today.

There were a total of twelve teams from schools all over Long Island. Everyone arrived at eight in the morning for a rousing breakfast of mini bagels and muffins. Teams used this precious time to cram for any last second thoughts. Then it was time for round one: shock advertising and poverty tours.



Pairs of teams first debated the ethical issues behind shock advertising. In the scenario a clothing line produced “shocking” advertisements, a picture of a martini glass with a cow’s eye in it for example, to gain attention. It worked, but at what price? When does advertising go too far?

The next case was poverty tours. Is it right to make money off of other’s misfortune, even if it helps them in the long run?

Next up, round two. A woman sold her virginity on the internet to pay of her college loans, but also to make a statement. Technically it was legal, since the act itself would happen in Nevada, where in certain areas, prostitution is legal. Was her decision ethical?

After that case, we discussed how society uses a GDP to measure the value of a human being. Should we measure a person based on how much money they make, or what they contribute to society.

Then we broke for a much-needed lunch. We gobbled down some cookies and sandwiches, while teams went over the up-coming cases. Then they announced the six teams that were moving on to the next round. Both Bethpage teams made it.

Round Three started with the issue of guns in schools. In recent years the occurrences of school shootings have been on the rise. For this reason, people wish to be able to protect themselves. Is it ethical for people to carry guns on college campuses? Or will their presence just add to the volatility of the already stressful environment.

The next case dealt with school newspapers. How far is a school required to go to protect the integrity of its students and paper? Where is the limit of school censuring?

Once the discussions were over, the teams met in the little theater to find the final two teams. Bethpage vs. Roslyn.

So both teams got up on stage, while everyone else looked on. We had the great opportunity of having County Executive, Ed Mangano, as one of the judges for the fourth and final round.

The first case was concerned about the teaching of intelligent design in the science curriculum. Should schools teach creationism along with evolution?

The final case was called “Babies Behind Bars.” Should incarcerated mothers be allowed to raise their young children with them in prison? Well, this is the case with certain jails in Mexico. However, are these the best conditions for raising a child?

Both teams did a fantastic job digging up the ethical issues behind each case and backing themselves up with logic. It was obvious that this was going to be a close call, but no one expected the score. Bethpage199 to Roslyn 200. Just one point!

Well, even though we didn’t win this one, we won’t let it get us down. Bethpage students are now getting prepared for the Stevens Institute Ethics Bowl next month.

Beacon Baseball Opens Season with a Win

The Blue Demon Varsity Baseball team opened their season with a 7-2 victory over Fredrick Douglass Academy at Inwood Park.

On the mound sophomore pitcher Kai Glick provided support on the mound with five innings of shutout ball. Glick had four strike outs and only allowed two hits in his first start of the season. The final two innings senior Isaac Forman recorded four strikeouts.

“We had good pitching, timely hitting and great defense,” stated senior first baseman Justin Sims who had a two run triple in the third inning. Complimenting Sims’ offense was junior outfielder Garrison Polius who went 1-3 with two RBIs and a stolen base. In addition to pitching, Forman also added an RBI single in the 4^th inning.

“We played a great game today,” said Glick, “If we keep this up we should be a real threat latter in the season.”  Beacon has their next game on Monday against Brandies.

Beacon Baseball Opens Season with a Win

The Blue Demon Varsity Baseball team opened their season with a 7-2 victory over Fredrick Douglass Academy at Inwood Park.

On the mound sophomore pitcher Kai Glick provided support on the mound with five innings of shutout ball. Glick had four strike outs and only allowed two hits in his first start of the season. The final two innings senior Isaac Forman recorded four strikeouts.

“We had good pitching, timely hitting and great defense,” stated senior first baseman Justin Sims who had a two run triple in the third inning. Complimenting Sims’ offense was junior outfielder Garrison Polius who went 1-3 with two RBIs and a stolen base. In addition to pitching, Forman also added an RBI single in the 4^th inning.

“We played a great game today,” said Glick, “If we keep this up we should be a real threat latter in the season.”  Beacon has their next game on Monday against Brandies.

All Bergen County Wrestling Team Announced

ALL-BERGEN WRESTLING

FIRST TEAM

103- freshman, Nick Gravina, Northern Highlands, Coach Rick Babitts

Nick  Gravina helped the Highlanders to another successful  wrestling season . Wrestling at 103 lbs Nick finished with a record of 38-4 with 18 pins. Nick was this years BCCA Champion, District Champion, Regional Champion, and 5th in the NJ state tournament. Nick was also voted 1st team all league NBIL and 1st team all county. Nick could not be here tonight because he is attending the freshmen nationals in Virginia Beach



112- junior, Jeff Rottingen, Ramsey,  Coach Anthony Petrock

Jeff is a pleasure to coach, he is a hard worker in the room, and is very dedicated to his team and his sport.  He has been the cornerstone of our team for the past three years.  He has placed 2^nd in district 5 twice and is a district champ and a region champ this season 2010.  He finished his year by placing 8^th in the NJSIAA state tournament in Atlantic City.  He has 99 wins going into his senior year and will continue to set records for Ramsey high school in the upcoming season.



119- junior, Joe Orecchio, Don Bosco, Coach Nunzio Campanile

(25-5) Joey Orecchio had another outstanding season for the Ironmen.  Despite missing almost a month due to injuries Joe managed to win 25 matches this season.  With an injured knee he placed 6^th in the prestigious Beast of the east tournament.  He followed that up with his 3^rd district title and his 3^rd region title.  Joe finished his season with 2^nd state medal, earning 4^th place in the NJ state tournament.  Joe is currently wrestling at the junior nationals, in preparation for his senior campaign as well as his college career.  Only a junior Joey is on track to be the most decorated wrestler in Don Bosco history



125- sophomore, Connor Melde, Bergen Catholic, Coach Dave Bell

Connor completed his sophomore campaign with a Season Record of 35-3 and fourth place finish at the state tournament. In the state semi-final match it was only a takedown with seconds left in the overtime period which prevented him from reaching the finals. Connor's accomplishments on the season include BCCA, District and Regional championships. He is very technical wrestler that is difficult to score on and is very good from any position. Over the course of the season Connor emerged as team leader and is determined to accomplish his goal of winning a state championship.

130- senior, Frank Cagnina, Queen of Peace, Coach Scott Weaver

There are many words that can describe this Queen of Peace senior athlete.  Relentless, skilled, physical may be some of the words to use.

The Queen of Peace senior is all of these; and also perfect.  Frank finished undefeated for the second year in a row to claim his 3^rd New Jersey State Championship.  39-0 was the final record of his decorated senior season.  This season's highlights included his 4^th Bergen County Championship, his 2^nd Maryland Mat Madness Championship, his 4^th District Championship, his 4^th Region Championship, and finally, his 3^rd New Jersey State Championship.

Frank capped of his final season as perfect.  His strong work ethic and strong commitment to excellence have rewarded him with the following accolades:

1. Invitation to the Cliff Keen DREAM TEAM


2. Ranked # 1 in the Country at 130


3. A Full 5-year athletic scholarship to Lehigh University.

Frank has had a tremendous high school career.  It's eminent that he's not done winning championships too. Ladys and gentlemen lets give a big round of applauds for 3 time NJ state Champion Frank Cagnina




135- senior, Vinny Fava, Elmwood Park, Coach Jared Luciani

As a senior for Elmwood Park, no coach could ask for a better leader than Vinnie Fava.  As a two year Captain Vinnie led the team by example.  He has always been the first wrestler in the room and the last to leave.  His tireless effort to make his team better has made him very popular amongst his teammates. Vin is a 4 x first team all county, 4 x district champ, 4x first team all league, 3x region champ, 1 x region runner up, He has finished 7th, 6th and 3rd in the NJ state championships,  He also placed 4th in the Beast of the East.   His career record is 122-19.  His 2007 Team were state champs and in 09 were state runner up.  His biggest accomplishment in high school was capitalized with a Junior National Title in Virginia Beach.



140- junior, Nick Alpher, Paramus, Coach Steve Klass

Nick ended this year with a 35-5 record.  Going into his senior year Nick has accumulated 99 wins.  This year Nick won the Caldwell invitational, BCCA County Tournament, and was a District 5 Champion.  Nick also placed 2nd in Region 2 and qualified for his second state tournament.  Nick was a team leader for one of the top programs in Bergen County and new Jersey.

140- sophomore, Sal Mastriani, Don Bosco, Coach Nunzio Campanile

(33-7) Only a sophomore Sal has amassed over 65 wins for his career.  He placed 3^rd in the BCCA, 2^nd in the District, and won his 1^st Region title.  Sal made his 2^nd trip to Atlantic City this season to cap a tremendous season.  More importantly, Sal Mastriani is undoubtedly the hardest worker on the Don Bosco team.  His toughness and work ethic were a major catalyst behind the ironmen earning their 1^st team state championship.  The Ironmen expect Sal to continue to lead them to great things in the next two years.

145- senior, Johansi Rivera, Fort Lee, Coach Alex Almeyda

Johansi Rivera, a senior at 145 pounds, finished with a season record of 36 wins and 4 losses.  He was a four year varsity starter for the Bridgemen.  He has earned three 1^st team B.C.S.L. All-League Honors.

He has been honored in the County three times.

• Sophomore year- Honorable Mention


• Junior year- Third Team


• Senior year- 1st team

He has placed twice in the Bergen County Coaches Tournament.

• 6th his Junior year


• 1st his Senior year

He placed three times in District 16

He placed twice in Region 4

• 2nd his Junior year


• 4th his Senior year

Johansi Rivera completed his High School career 2nd for All-Time Wins in Fort Lee History with 105 wins.

What is even more remarkable than all of his achievements is that this young man has earned all of this with only wrestling for 4 years.

He is being recruited by Johnson and Wales University and Delaware Valley University.

152- senior, Keith Switzer, Bergen Catholic, Coach Dave Bell

Keith had a season record of 26-6.

Keith completed his career as a four time district place finisher, four-time region place finisher and with an 8^th place finish at the state tournament. He served as senior team captain and was instrumental in molding a very young group of wrestlers into a close-knit and successful team. The coaching staff agreed that Keith was, overall, one of the best athletes on the team. Keith's first sport is lacrosse. Keith will continue his Lacrosse Career at St. John's College next year, where he is a scholarship athlete.



160- freshman, Frank Mattiace, Don Bosco, Coach Nunzio Campanile

(32-12)  Frank  Mattiace is the definition of perseverance and the beneficiary of hard work.  Only a freshmen Frankie took some tough losses early the season and they benefited him greatly as the season went on.  Frank placed 5^th in the BCCA, 3^rd in the District,  1^st in the Region, and finally 6^th in the NJ State tournament.  Despite some heartbreaking losses Frank continued to believe in his abilities and worked harder every week.  That work paid off in the end. Frank peaked at the end of the season and earned a medal in Atlantic City.  A tremendous accomplishment for any freshmen, but astounding at 160lbs.



171- senior, Jamie Westwood, Queen of Peace, Coach Scot Weaver

Jamie Westwood has not performed his best wrestling yet.  This 171 pound senior had to face possible season ending surgery in late January. Jamie overcame knee surgery and finished with a rewarding career with a 3^rd place finish in the NJ State Tourney, a District and Region Championship, and a 122 career wins. Jamie's solid leg attack and strong work ethic, has earned him a scholarship to Bucknell University.

Over Jamie's four years, he placed in the Beast of the East, the Maryland Mat Madness, the Junior High School Nationals, and the FILA Free style Nationals. Jamie was named All Conference in his final three years competing, finished his senior season with a 34-6 record, and named All Bergen for the 2^nd year in a row.

Jamie is an excellent student and Queen of Peace, his family, and the coaching staff is very proud of his accomplishments

189- freshman, Razohan Gross, Don Bosco, Coach Nunzio Campanile

(26-8) Razohnn is another outstanding freshman for the Ironmen.  Razohnn is another wrestler that steadily improved over the course of the season.  Razohnn, placed 3^rd in the BCCA, 1^st in the Districts, and 1^st in the Region.  A gifted athlete, Razohnn combined raw talent with a tough aggressive style that often overwhelmed opponents.  That style should continue to help Razohnn as he expands his wrestling arsenal.  Also a football player Razohnn looks to be a 2 sport standout for Don Bosco next year.



215- senior, Jonathan Price, Hackensack, Coach John Stallone

Jonathan Price wrestled his way up through the Hackensack Junior Wrestling program.  Through hard work and dedication, he was a Bergen County Freshman Champion.  He was a four year Varsity starter, helping the team to the state sectional finals two of his four years.  Jonathan's record this year was 24-4 with 19 pins.  This year, wrestling up at heavyweight, Jonathan was a Cutter Classic champion and took a silver medal in the County Tournament.  Wrestling at his true weight class of 215, Jonathan was very successful.  With his explosive and athletic wrestling style, he earned a District 7 Championship.  Jonathan's special moment was to win the Region 2 Gold medal in his home gym at Hackensack High School.



285- senior, Mike Shannon, Old Tappan, Coach Rob Ortiz



Michael finished the season with a 35-2 record and was 84-25 in his career. This year, his 23 pins and 183 team points were among the most in the state. He was undefeated in dual meet and tournament competition until the state tournament. Michael won the District 8, Region 2, and BCCA championships, becoming Old Tappan's first county champion since 1991 and helping the school to its first overall title. He is an outstanding leader and always places the team ahead of himself. Next year he will wrestle at Division III power Ithaca College.

Teams of the year

Becton/Wallington, Coach Mike Settembrino

The Becton/Wallington Wrestling team ended the year with an 18-6 record and clinched the BCSL National Team Championship title for the second year in a row as well as winning a District 15 title, an honor in which the school has not seen in 31 years.  Aside from these accomplishments, Becton/Wallington has also been crowned the Garfield Tournament Team Champions and more impressively, the Group 1 and 2 Bergen County Team of the Year.  In addition, the team proudly encompasses seven 1^st Team All League Members and three 2^nd Team All League Members.

Paramus, Coach Steve Klass

Paramus finished the year with a 16-6 record.  They were District 5 Champs, League Champs, and State Sectional Finalists.  They finished the year ranked # 23 in the final New Jersey Wrestling Coaches Association Top 25 Poll.  Despite the 16-6 record the Spartans were undefeated in Bergen County and against teams in Region 2.  Their 7 losses came to the #1, #2, #11, #15, #22 teams in the State of New Jersey, and their final loss was to a team ranked as on of the top 15 in Pennsylvania.  The 2010 senior class went 4 years without losing a league match.  Individually they crowned 2 County Champs, 5 District champs and qualified 4 wrestlers for the State Championships.

Coach of the Year-  Kevin Manning

Kevin Manning just finished his fifth year has head wrestling coach at Bergenfield High School.  Over this time his team has an overall record of 78 wins and 33 losses with three league titles.  This year with the help of his assistant coaches the bears ended the season with a 17-2 record and a share of the NBIAL league title.  Along with being voted Bergen County Coach of the year, Kevin received District and Region coach of the year honors as well.

SECOND TEAM

103-  Brian Schneider, Hackensack, senior

112-  Anthony Miuccio, Old Tappan, senior

119-  Sergio Grigorian, Fair Lawn, senior

125-  Andrew Polidore, Queen of Peace, senior

130-  James Dawson, Don Bosco, freshman

135-  Zach Zotollo, Paramus, senior

145-  Matt Dickman, Glen Rock/Saddle Brook, sophomore

152-  Jason Dack, Don Bosco, senior

152-  James Dugan, Becton/Wallington, sophomore

160-  Mike Mordaga, Paramus, senior

171-  Mike Khoury, St. Joseph, senior

189-  Brendan Wengerter, Cresskill, senior

215- Luke Pragdat, Mahwah, junior

285-  Joe Ortiz, Ridgefield Park/Ridgefield, senior

THIRD TEAM

103-  Trevor Albrecht, Bergen Catholic, junior

112-  Thomas Casper, Bergen Catholic, senior

119-  Steven Schneider, Emerson/Park Ridge, sophomore

125-  Nick Maselli, Emerson/Park Ridge, sophomore

125-  Alex Preefer, Cresskill, senior

130-  Nick Guarriello, Emerson/Park Ridge, senior

135-  Joe DeQuinzio, Hasbrouck Heights/Wood-Ridge, senior

135-  Dan Rehain, Northern Highlands, senior

140-  Vince DiMitri, Fair Lawn, senior

140-  Sam Pietrantuono, Ridgewood, senior

145-  Darius Charles, Old Tappan, senior

160-  Ryan Sblendorio, Mahwah, junior

160-  Dane McDermott, St. Joseph, junior

171-  Damian Murberg, Pascack Valley, junior

171-  Eric Torres, Elmwood Park, senior

189-  Mike Scrozzo, Queen of Peace, senior

189-  Kevin Yali, Waldwick/Midland Park, senior

215-  Phil McCue, St. Joseph, senior

285-  Cody Mann, Mahwah, junior

285-  Kurt Schmitz, Don Bosco, senior

HONORABLE MENTION

103
Christian Negron, Bergenfield; Brendan Campbell, River Dell,  Austin Cantone, St. Joseph; Joe Baldicanas, Paramus Catholic; Jesse Massaro, Old Tappan; Justin Scheinert, Ramapo; William Montgomery, Ridgewood; Billy Reardon, Don Bosco; Max Gallo, Fair Lawn; Matt Joskowitz, Cliffside Park; Matt McKay, Westwood; Mike Morreale, Lyndhurst/North Arlington.

112
Jep Alorro, Cresskill; Brandon Stueben, Northern Highlands; Domenic Manginelli, Dumont; Joe Guerriero, Glen Rock/Saddle Brook; Antonio Nadera, Paramus; Brandon Buonomo, Emerson/Park Ridge, Dan Geraldi, Rutherford; Mike Laurice, Indian Hills; Sebastian Trujuillo, Becton/Wallington.

119
Danny Tyson, Waldwick/Midland Park; Firas Warrad, Bogota/Weehawken; Charlie Mitchell, Bergen Catholic; Chuckie Slater, Ramsey; Adam Rusch, Old Tappan; Dan Ressler, Pascack Valley; Brandon Giovanetti, Ridgewood; Alex Scheinert, Ramapo; Ryan Monteforte, Cliffside Park; Daryl Albonico, St. Joseph; Pedro Morejon, Lyndhurst/North Arlington.

125
Chris Leidig, Dumont; John Herbener, Demarest; Ryan Giovanetti, Ridgewood; Joe Rizzitello, Paramus; Paul Getto, Northern Highlands; Tyler Champy, Glen Rock/Saddle Brook; Emmanuel Villanueva, Becton/Wallington.

130
Josh Alorro, Cresskill; Matt Jacobson, Glen Rock/Saddle Brook; Matt Mangini, Bergen Catholic; Enrique Romero, Bogota/Weehawken; Joe Nacco, Ramapo; Zach Frohlich, Old Tappan; Dave Powell, River Dell; Michael Spangler, Hasbrouck Heights/Wood-Ridge.

135
James DiGregorio, Emerson/Park Ridge; Nick Baranello, River Dell; Nick Madormo, Ramapo; Tayfun Ender, Fort Lee; John Boyle, Rutherford; Steve Sivelstro, Bergen Catholic.

140
Pete Seeback, Paramus Catholic; Erick Marrero, Bergenfield; Shawn Flesche, Old Tappan; Brandon Cocherl, Northern Highlands; Chris Montero, Hackensack; Mike Paskas, Rutherford; Ryan Spangler, Hasbrouck Heights/Wood-Ridge; Terek Molamusa, Ramapo; Kris Buonomo, Emerson/Park Ridge.

145
Andrew Vecchione, Emerson/Park Ridge; Andrew Gramaglia, Ridgewood; Vincent Silano, St. Joseph; Pedro Barahona, Waldwick/Midland Park; Matt Ellsworth, Bergen Catholic; Javaunne Gordon, Hackensack; Anthony Melon, Paramus; Gal Levy, Fair Lawn; Jovan Rivera, Bergenfield; Peter Ruiz, Hasbrouck Heights/Wood-Ridge; Charlie Woods, Demarest; Kris Buonomo, Emerson/Park Ridge; Tyler Mealy, Becton/Wallington.

152
Jared Vergara, Pascack Hills; Dave Heitman, Mahwah; Bobby Franklin, Ridgewood; Alex Cimiluca, Glen Rock/Saddle Brook; Niko Tsolakidis, Demarest; Chris Durante, Paramus; Jeff Farina, St. Joseph; Adrian Fernandez, River Dell; Jimmy MacWilliams, Ramsey.

160
Luke Iorio, Bergen Catholic; Derick Layne, Demarest; Steven Macko, Ramsey; Christian Rota, Ridgewood; Ricky Rizzo, River Dell; Andrew Hodulik, Hasbrouck Heights/Wood-Ridge; Jake Regina, Rutherford; Ryan Melley, Ridgefield Park/Ridgefield; Patrick Cottrell, Pascack Hills.

171
Adem Najarian, Dumont; Nate Leer, Teaneck; Anthony Mordaga, Paramus; Victor Kipiani, Ramapo; Kieran Keelan, River Dell; Ryan Walker, Mahwah; Mike Otsuka, Bergen Catholic; Tafadzwa Mushandu, Fort Lee; Chris Motichka, Lyndhurst/North Arlington; Jonathan Gonzalez, Becton/Wallington; Matt Damato, Ramsey.

189
Jared Schlett, Glen Rock/Saddle Brook; Rich Torres, Bergenfield; Zack Klein, Ramsey; Jared Yuhas, Bogota/Weehawken; David Zurla, Rutherford; Mike Amaro, St. Mary; Ray Donnelly, Old Tappan; Nick Barone, Westwood.

215
Iyi Okunlola, Old Tappan; Byron Blake, Ramsey; Matt Mecca, Northern Highlands; Joe Schlossberg, River Dell; Dan Lewitt, Glen Rock/Saddle Brook; Mike Gerbasio, Rutherford; Abo Mahmoud, Becton/Wallington; Andrew Benvenuto, Don Bosco.

285
Ivan Tandara, Tenafly; Jeff Rodriguez, Lodi; Abe Malki, Elmwood Park; Dakota Bryant, Cresskill; Jimmy Uzzalino, Ridgewood; Wisam Daoud, Hackensack; Ryan MacIver, Pascack Valley; Nick Saile, Becton/Wallington.

All Bergen County Wrestling Team Announced

ALL-BERGEN WRESTLING

FIRST TEAM

103- freshman, Nick Gravina, Northern Highlands, Coach Rick Babitts

Nick  Gravina helped the Highlanders to another successful  wrestling season . Wrestling at 103 lbs Nick finished with a record of 38-4 with 18 pins. Nick was this years BCCA Champion, District Champion, Regional Champion, and 5th in the NJ state tournament. Nick was also voted 1st team all league NBIL and 1st team all county. Nick could not be here tonight because he is attending the freshmen nationals in Virginia Beach



112- junior, Jeff Rottingen, Ramsey,  Coach Anthony Petrock

Jeff is a pleasure to coach, he is a hard worker in the room, and is very dedicated to his team and his sport.  He has been the cornerstone of our team for the past three years.  He has placed 2^nd in district 5 twice and is a district champ and a region champ this season 2010.  He finished his year by placing 8^th in the NJSIAA state tournament in Atlantic City.  He has 99 wins going into his senior year and will continue to set records for Ramsey high school in the upcoming season.



119- junior, Joe Orecchio, Don Bosco, Coach Nunzio Campanile

(25-5) Joey Orecchio had another outstanding season for the Ironmen.  Despite missing almost a month due to injuries Joe managed to win 25 matches this season.  With an injured knee he placed 6^th in the prestigious Beast of the east tournament.  He followed that up with his 3^rd district title and his 3^rd region title.  Joe finished his season with 2^nd state medal, earning 4^th place in the NJ state tournament.  Joe is currently wrestling at the junior nationals, in preparation for his senior campaign as well as his college career.  Only a junior Joey is on track to be the most decorated wrestler in Don Bosco history



125- sophomore, Connor Melde, Bergen Catholic, Coach Dave Bell

Connor completed his sophomore campaign with a Season Record of 35-3 and fourth place finish at the state tournament. In the state semi-final match it was only a takedown with seconds left in the overtime period which prevented him from reaching the finals. Connor's accomplishments on the season include BCCA, District and Regional championships. He is very technical wrestler that is difficult to score on and is very good from any position. Over the course of the season Connor emerged as team leader and is determined to accomplish his goal of winning a state championship.

130- senior, Frank Cagnina, Queen of Peace, Coach Scott Weaver

There are many words that can describe this Queen of Peace senior athlete.  Relentless, skilled, physical may be some of the words to use.

The Queen of Peace senior is all of these; and also perfect.  Frank finished undefeated for the second year in a row to claim his 3^rd New Jersey State Championship.  39-0 was the final record of his decorated senior season.  This season's highlights included his 4^th Bergen County Championship, his 2^nd Maryland Mat Madness Championship, his 4^th District Championship, his 4^th Region Championship, and finally, his 3^rd New Jersey State Championship.

Frank capped of his final season as perfect.  His strong work ethic and strong commitment to excellence have rewarded him with the following accolades:

1. Invitation to the Cliff Keen DREAM TEAM


2. Ranked # 1 in the Country at 130


3. A Full 5-year athletic scholarship to Lehigh University.

Frank has had a tremendous high school career.  It's eminent that he's not done winning championships too. Ladys and gentlemen lets give a big round of applauds for 3 time NJ state Champion Frank Cagnina




135- senior, Vinny Fava, Elmwood Park, Coach Jared Luciani

As a senior for Elmwood Park, no coach could ask for a better leader than Vinnie Fava.  As a two year Captain Vinnie led the team by example.  He has always been the first wrestler in the room and the last to leave.  His tireless effort to make his team better has made him very popular amongst his teammates. Vin is a 4 x first team all county, 4 x district champ, 4x first team all league, 3x region champ, 1 x region runner up, He has finished 7th, 6th and 3rd in the NJ state championships,  He also placed 4th in the Beast of the East.   His career record is 122-19.  His 2007 Team were state champs and in 09 were state runner up.  His biggest accomplishment in high school was capitalized with a Junior National Title in Virginia Beach.



140- junior, Nick Alpher, Paramus, Coach Steve Klass

Nick ended this year with a 35-5 record.  Going into his senior year Nick has accumulated 99 wins.  This year Nick won the Caldwell invitational, BCCA County Tournament, and was a District 5 Champion.  Nick also placed 2nd in Region 2 and qualified for his second state tournament.  Nick was a team leader for one of the top programs in Bergen County and new Jersey.

140- sophomore, Sal Mastriani, Don Bosco, Coach Nunzio Campanile

(33-7) Only a sophomore Sal has amassed over 65 wins for his career.  He placed 3^rd in the BCCA, 2^nd in the District, and won his 1^st Region title.  Sal made his 2^nd trip to Atlantic City this season to cap a tremendous season.  More importantly, Sal Mastriani is undoubtedly the hardest worker on the Don Bosco team.  His toughness and work ethic were a major catalyst behind the ironmen earning their 1^st team state championship.  The Ironmen expect Sal to continue to lead them to great things in the next two years.

145- senior, Johansi Rivera, Fort Lee, Coach Alex Almeyda

Johansi Rivera, a senior at 145 pounds, finished with a season record of 36 wins and 4 losses.  He was a four year varsity starter for the Bridgemen.  He has earned three 1^st team B.C.S.L. All-League Honors.

He has been honored in the County three times.

• Sophomore year- Honorable Mention


• Junior year- Third Team


• Senior year- 1st team

He has placed twice in the Bergen County Coaches Tournament.

• 6th his Junior year


• 1st his Senior year

He placed three times in District 16

He placed twice in Region 4

• 2nd his Junior year


• 4th his Senior year

Johansi Rivera completed his High School career 2nd for All-Time Wins in Fort Lee History with 105 wins.

What is even more remarkable than all of his achievements is that this young man has earned all of this with only wrestling for 4 years.

He is being recruited by Johnson and Wales University and Delaware Valley University.

152- senior, Keith Switzer, Bergen Catholic, Coach Dave Bell

Keith had a season record of 26-6.

Keith completed his career as a four time district place finisher, four-time region place finisher and with an 8^th place finish at the state tournament. He served as senior team captain and was instrumental in molding a very young group of wrestlers into a close-knit and successful team. The coaching staff agreed that Keith was, overall, one of the best athletes on the team. Keith's first sport is lacrosse. Keith will continue his Lacrosse Career at St. John's College next year, where he is a scholarship athlete.



160- freshman, Frank Mattiace, Don Bosco, Coach Nunzio Campanile

(32-12)  Frank  Mattiace is the definition of perseverance and the beneficiary of hard work.  Only a freshmen Frankie took some tough losses early the season and they benefited him greatly as the season went on.  Frank placed 5^th in the BCCA, 3^rd in the District,  1^st in the Region, and finally 6^th in the NJ State tournament.  Despite some heartbreaking losses Frank continued to believe in his abilities and worked harder every week.  That work paid off in the end. Frank peaked at the end of the season and earned a medal in Atlantic City.  A tremendous accomplishment for any freshmen, but astounding at 160lbs.



171- senior, Jamie Westwood, Queen of Peace, Coach Scot Weaver

Jamie Westwood has not performed his best wrestling yet.  This 171 pound senior had to face possible season ending surgery in late January. Jamie overcame knee surgery and finished with a rewarding career with a 3^rd place finish in the NJ State Tourney, a District and Region Championship, and a 122 career wins. Jamie's solid leg attack and strong work ethic, has earned him a scholarship to Bucknell University.

Over Jamie's four years, he placed in the Beast of the East, the Maryland Mat Madness, the Junior High School Nationals, and the FILA Free style Nationals. Jamie was named All Conference in his final three years competing, finished his senior season with a 34-6 record, and named All Bergen for the 2^nd year in a row.

Jamie is an excellent student and Queen of Peace, his family, and the coaching staff is very proud of his accomplishments

189- freshman, Razohan Gross, Don Bosco, Coach Nunzio Campanile

(26-8) Razohnn is another outstanding freshman for the Ironmen.  Razohnn is another wrestler that steadily improved over the course of the season.  Razohnn, placed 3^rd in the BCCA, 1^st in the Districts, and 1^st in the Region.  A gifted athlete, Razohnn combined raw talent with a tough aggressive style that often overwhelmed opponents.  That style should continue to help Razohnn as he expands his wrestling arsenal.  Also a football player Razohnn looks to be a 2 sport standout for Don Bosco next year.



215- senior, Jonathan Price, Hackensack, Coach John Stallone

Jonathan Price wrestled his way up through the Hackensack Junior Wrestling program.  Through hard work and dedication, he was a Bergen County Freshman Champion.  He was a four year Varsity starter, helping the team to the state sectional finals two of his four years.  Jonathan's record this year was 24-4 with 19 pins.  This year, wrestling up at heavyweight, Jonathan was a Cutter Classic champion and took a silver medal in the County Tournament.  Wrestling at his true weight class of 215, Jonathan was very successful.  With his explosive and athletic wrestling style, he earned a District 7 Championship.  Jonathan's special moment was to win the Region 2 Gold medal in his home gym at Hackensack High School.



285- senior, Mike Shannon, Old Tappan, Coach Rob Ortiz



Michael finished the season with a 35-2 record and was 84-25 in his career. This year, his 23 pins and 183 team points were among the most in the state. He was undefeated in dual meet and tournament competition until the state tournament. Michael won the District 8, Region 2, and BCCA championships, becoming Old Tappan's first county champion since 1991 and helping the school to its first overall title. He is an outstanding leader and always places the team ahead of himself. Next year he will wrestle at Division III power Ithaca College.

Teams of the year

Becton/Wallington, Coach Mike Settembrino

The Becton/Wallington Wrestling team ended the year with an 18-6 record and clinched the BCSL National Team Championship title for the second year in a row as well as winning a District 15 title, an honor in which the school has not seen in 31 years.  Aside from these accomplishments, Becton/Wallington has also been crowned the Garfield Tournament Team Champions and more impressively, the Group 1 and 2 Bergen County Team of the Year.  In addition, the team proudly encompasses seven 1^st Team All League Members and three 2^nd Team All League Members.

Paramus, Coach Steve Klass

Paramus finished the year with a 16-6 record.  They were District 5 Champs, League Champs, and State Sectional Finalists.  They finished the year ranked # 23 in the final New Jersey Wrestling Coaches Association Top 25 Poll.  Despite the 16-6 record the Spartans were undefeated in Bergen County and against teams in Region 2.  Their 7 losses came to the #1, #2, #11, #15, #22 teams in the State of New Jersey, and their final loss was to a team ranked as on of the top 15 in Pennsylvania.  The 2010 senior class went 4 years without losing a league match.  Individually they crowned 2 County Champs, 5 District champs and qualified 4 wrestlers for the State Championships.

Coach of the Year-  Kevin Manning

Kevin Manning just finished his fifth year has head wrestling coach at Bergenfield High School.  Over this time his team has an overall record of 78 wins and 33 losses with three league titles.  This year with the help of his assistant coaches the bears ended the season with a 17-2 record and a share of the NBIAL league title.  Along with being voted Bergen County Coach of the year, Kevin received District and Region coach of the year honors as well.

SECOND TEAM

103-  Brian Schneider, Hackensack, senior

112-  Anthony Miuccio, Old Tappan, senior

119-  Sergio Grigorian, Fair Lawn, senior

125-  Andrew Polidore, Queen of Peace, senior

130-  James Dawson, Don Bosco, freshman

135-  Zach Zotollo, Paramus, senior

145-  Matt Dickman, Glen Rock/Saddle Brook, sophomore

152-  Jason Dack, Don Bosco, senior

152-  James Dugan, Becton/Wallington, sophomore

160-  Mike Mordaga, Paramus, senior

171-  Mike Khoury, St. Joseph, senior

189-  Brendan Wengerter, Cresskill, senior

215- Luke Pragdat, Mahwah, junior

285-  Joe Ortiz, Ridgefield Park/Ridgefield, senior

THIRD TEAM

103-  Trevor Albrecht, Bergen Catholic, junior

112-  Thomas Casper, Bergen Catholic, senior

119-  Steven Schneider, Emerson/Park Ridge, sophomore

125-  Nick Maselli, Emerson/Park Ridge, sophomore

125-  Alex Preefer, Cresskill, senior

130-  Nick Guarriello, Emerson/Park Ridge, senior

135-  Joe DeQuinzio, Hasbrouck Heights/Wood-Ridge, senior

135-  Dan Rehain, Northern Highlands, senior

140-  Vince DiMitri, Fair Lawn, senior

140-  Sam Pietrantuono, Ridgewood, senior

145-  Darius Charles, Old Tappan, senior

160-  Ryan Sblendorio, Mahwah, junior

160-  Dane McDermott, St. Joseph, junior

171-  Damian Murberg, Pascack Valley, junior

171-  Eric Torres, Elmwood Park, senior

189-  Mike Scrozzo, Queen of Peace, senior

189-  Kevin Yali, Waldwick/Midland Park, senior

215-  Phil McCue, St. Joseph, senior

285-  Cody Mann, Mahwah, junior

285-  Kurt Schmitz, Don Bosco, senior

HONORABLE MENTION

103
Christian Negron, Bergenfield; Brendan Campbell, River Dell,  Austin Cantone, St. Joseph; Joe Baldicanas, Paramus Catholic; Jesse Massaro, Old Tappan; Justin Scheinert, Ramapo; William Montgomery, Ridgewood; Billy Reardon, Don Bosco; Max Gallo, Fair Lawn; Matt Joskowitz, Cliffside Park; Matt McKay, Westwood; Mike Morreale, Lyndhurst/North Arlington.

112
Jep Alorro, Cresskill; Brandon Stueben, Northern Highlands; Domenic Manginelli, Dumont; Joe Guerriero, Glen Rock/Saddle Brook; Antonio Nadera, Paramus; Brandon Buonomo, Emerson/Park Ridge, Dan Geraldi, Rutherford; Mike Laurice, Indian Hills; Sebastian Trujuillo, Becton/Wallington.

119
Danny Tyson, Waldwick/Midland Park; Firas Warrad, Bogota/Weehawken; Charlie Mitchell, Bergen Catholic; Chuckie Slater, Ramsey; Adam Rusch, Old Tappan; Dan Ressler, Pascack Valley; Brandon Giovanetti, Ridgewood; Alex Scheinert, Ramapo; Ryan Monteforte, Cliffside Park; Daryl Albonico, St. Joseph; Pedro Morejon, Lyndhurst/North Arlington.

125
Chris Leidig, Dumont; John Herbener, Demarest; Ryan Giovanetti, Ridgewood; Joe Rizzitello, Paramus; Paul Getto, Northern Highlands; Tyler Champy, Glen Rock/Saddle Brook; Emmanuel Villanueva, Becton/Wallington.

130
Josh Alorro, Cresskill; Matt Jacobson, Glen Rock/Saddle Brook; Matt Mangini, Bergen Catholic; Enrique Romero, Bogota/Weehawken; Joe Nacco, Ramapo; Zach Frohlich, Old Tappan; Dave Powell, River Dell; Michael Spangler, Hasbrouck Heights/Wood-Ridge.

135
James DiGregorio, Emerson/Park Ridge; Nick Baranello, River Dell; Nick Madormo, Ramapo; Tayfun Ender, Fort Lee; John Boyle, Rutherford; Steve Sivelstro, Bergen Catholic.

140
Pete Seeback, Paramus Catholic; Erick Marrero, Bergenfield; Shawn Flesche, Old Tappan; Brandon Cocherl, Northern Highlands; Chris Montero, Hackensack; Mike Paskas, Rutherford; Ryan Spangler, Hasbrouck Heights/Wood-Ridge; Terek Molamusa, Ramapo; Kris Buonomo, Emerson/Park Ridge.

145
Andrew Vecchione, Emerson/Park Ridge; Andrew Gramaglia, Ridgewood; Vincent Silano, St. Joseph; Pedro Barahona, Waldwick/Midland Park; Matt Ellsworth, Bergen Catholic; Javaunne Gordon, Hackensack; Anthony Melon, Paramus; Gal Levy, Fair Lawn; Jovan Rivera, Bergenfield; Peter Ruiz, Hasbrouck Heights/Wood-Ridge; Charlie Woods, Demarest; Kris Buonomo, Emerson/Park Ridge; Tyler Mealy, Becton/Wallington.

152
Jared Vergara, Pascack Hills; Dave Heitman, Mahwah; Bobby Franklin, Ridgewood; Alex Cimiluca, Glen Rock/Saddle Brook; Niko Tsolakidis, Demarest; Chris Durante, Paramus; Jeff Farina, St. Joseph; Adrian Fernandez, River Dell; Jimmy MacWilliams, Ramsey.

160
Luke Iorio, Bergen Catholic; Derick Layne, Demarest; Steven Macko, Ramsey; Christian Rota, Ridgewood; Ricky Rizzo, River Dell; Andrew Hodulik, Hasbrouck Heights/Wood-Ridge; Jake Regina, Rutherford; Ryan Melley, Ridgefield Park/Ridgefield; Patrick Cottrell, Pascack Hills.

171
Adem Najarian, Dumont; Nate Leer, Teaneck; Anthony Mordaga, Paramus; Victor Kipiani, Ramapo; Kieran Keelan, River Dell; Ryan Walker, Mahwah; Mike Otsuka, Bergen Catholic; Tafadzwa Mushandu, Fort Lee; Chris Motichka, Lyndhurst/North Arlington; Jonathan Gonzalez, Becton/Wallington; Matt Damato, Ramsey.

189
Jared Schlett, Glen Rock/Saddle Brook; Rich Torres, Bergenfield; Zack Klein, Ramsey; Jared Yuhas, Bogota/Weehawken; David Zurla, Rutherford; Mike Amaro, St. Mary; Ray Donnelly, Old Tappan; Nick Barone, Westwood.

215
Iyi Okunlola, Old Tappan; Byron Blake, Ramsey; Matt Mecca, Northern Highlands; Joe Schlossberg, River Dell; Dan Lewitt, Glen Rock/Saddle Brook; Mike Gerbasio, Rutherford; Abo Mahmoud, Becton/Wallington; Andrew Benvenuto, Don Bosco.

285
Ivan Tandara, Tenafly; Jeff Rodriguez, Lodi; Abe Malki, Elmwood Park; Dakota Bryant, Cresskill; Jimmy Uzzalino, Ridgewood; Wisam Daoud, Hackensack; Ryan MacIver, Pascack Valley; Nick Saile, Becton/Wallington.

Randallstown High School Visits the Washington Wizards

Randallstown High Schools students were provided the opportunity to visit the Washington Wizards this past weekend. Students were able to interview players and personnel. After meeting with players downstairs, interns were given media passes and viewed the game from the media booth.

Randallstown High School Visits the Washington Wizards

Randallstown High Schools students were provided the opportunity to visit the Washington Wizards this past weekend. Students were able to interview players and personnel. After meeting with players downstairs, interns were given media passes and viewed the game from the media booth.

Bergen Catholic's Cushing named top defensive rookie

From the first practice in training camp until the last game, Brian Cushing was a tackling machine for the Houston Texans.

That's exactly what the team sought when it chose the linebacker from USC 15th overall in the draft last April. What the Texans also got is The Associated Press 2009 NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year.

Bergen Catholic's Cushing named top defensive rookie

From the first practice in training camp until the last game, Brian Cushing was a tackling machine for the Houston Texans.

That's exactly what the team sought when it chose the linebacker from USC 15th overall in the draft last April. What the Texans also got is The Associated Press 2009 NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year.

FHS Sports Media Interns Attend Ravens Training Camp

As part of Sportz Ventures' High School Media Internship Program, several students from Franklin and Randallstown High participated as active members of the media during the Baltimore Ravens Pre Season Training Camp on August 15, 2009. These students, interested in post high school careers within the sports industry, were given media credentials, access to field activities and conducted player interviews.


Baltimore's Franklin and Randallstown High Schools are two of the 60 plus high schools across the country participating in the media internship program. Sportz Ventures' approach to the promotion of high school athletics though digital literacy and media training is a unique, cost free program designed to benefit schools, athletes and the students. Through the program, student interns gain valuable experience with their school's own teams, in addition to professional teams like the Jacksonville Jaguars, Tampa Bay Rays, Baltimore Orioles and Baltimore Ravens. Interns train within the fields of journalism, events planning, broadcasting, videography, photography, public relations and management. Student produced pieces will be added to an athletics website exclusively designed and maintained for their school by Sportz Ventures.

Rich Reed, Athletic Director of FHS, was eager to bring the program to his high school after learning about the benefits from Sportz Ventures Development Director, Jennifer Corace. Reed feels that the combination of internship training, team promotion and website development is a great way for students to learn about the sports industry while increasing school spirit and pride. The internships really expand the reach of our athletic program by adding student produced work and information to our athletics website. Both athletes and non-athletes can participate and learn about different careers in sports which benefit both the students and the schools.

FHS Sports Media Interns Attend Ravens Training Camp

As part of Sportz Ventures' High School Media Internship Program, several students from Franklin and Randallstown High participated as active members of the media during the Baltimore Ravens Pre Season Training Camp on August 15, 2009. These students, interested in post high school careers within the sports industry, were given media credentials, access to field activities and conducted player interviews.


Baltimore's Franklin and Randallstown High Schools are two of the 60 plus high schools across the country participating in the media internship program. Sportz Ventures' approach to the promotion of high school athletics though digital literacy and media training is a unique, cost free program designed to benefit schools, athletes and the students. Through the program, student interns gain valuable experience with their school's own teams, in addition to professional teams like the Jacksonville Jaguars, Tampa Bay Rays, Baltimore Orioles and Baltimore Ravens. Interns train within the fields of journalism, events planning, broadcasting, videography, photography, public relations and management. Student produced pieces will be added to an athletics website exclusively designed and maintained for their school by Sportz Ventures.

Rich Reed, Athletic Director of FHS, was eager to bring the program to his high school after learning about the benefits from Sportz Ventures Development Director, Jennifer Corace. Reed feels that the combination of internship training, team promotion and website development is a great way for students to learn about the sports industry while increasing school spirit and pride. The internships really expand the reach of our athletic program by adding student produced work and information to our athletics website. Both athletes and non-athletes can participate and learn about different careers in sports which benefit both the students and the schools.

Student Interns from Ponte Vedra High School go to Jaguars Training Camp

The Jaguars hosted 10 students from Ponte Vedra High School on Monday morning as part of the Sportz Ventures internship program. The program is geared toward students who are interested in careers in sports management, public relations, events planning, broadcasting, journalism, and videography.

The students had the opportunity to see how the franchise operates behind the scenes and interviewed several players following practice. Ponte Vedra High School has 40 students signed up for the program which is based out of New York, and more than 25 Florida high schools are participating in 2009. Former NFL great Roger Staubach was an original investor in the company.

The area students watched practice and had the opportunity to hear from several members of the media about their profession along with Jaguars Senior Vice President, Football Operations/General Counsel Paul Vance. The theme of the day was learning.



"We are trying to groom kids to be sports journalists," said Jennifer Corace, Development Director. "Today was a great opportunity for them to learn from professionals and interview NFL players."

Following practice, each student conducted a one-on-one interview with a Jaguars player. Among the players interviewed were Quentin Groves, Gerald Alexander, Joe Zelenka, Josh Scobee, Clint Ingram and Montell Owens.

The sports media company works with high school athletics departments to expand the reach of their athletes and athletic programs. The free service to high school involves the implementation of a student sports information director program. The program has sent students to spring training to interview players and will be attending several NFL training camps this summer.

Student Interns from Ponte Vedra High School go to Jaguars Training Camp

The Jaguars hosted 10 students from Ponte Vedra High School on Monday morning as part of the Sportz Ventures internship program. The program is geared toward students who are interested in careers in sports management, public relations, events planning, broadcasting, journalism, and videography.

The students had the opportunity to see how the franchise operates behind the scenes and interviewed several players following practice. Ponte Vedra High School has 40 students signed up for the program which is based out of New York, and more than 25 Florida high schools are participating in 2009. Former NFL great Roger Staubach was an original investor in the company.

The area students watched practice and had the opportunity to hear from several members of the media about their profession along with Jaguars Senior Vice President, Football Operations/General Counsel Paul Vance. The theme of the day was learning.



"We are trying to groom kids to be sports journalists," said Jennifer Corace, Development Director. "Today was a great opportunity for them to learn from professionals and interview NFL players."

Following practice, each student conducted a one-on-one interview with a Jaguars player. Among the players interviewed were Quentin Groves, Gerald Alexander, Joe Zelenka, Josh Scobee, Clint Ingram and Montell Owens.

The sports media company works with high school athletics departments to expand the reach of their athletes and athletic programs. The free service to high school involves the implementation of a student sports information director program. The program has sent students to spring training to interview players and will be attending several NFL training camps this summer.

Beyond Bergen and Beyond Jersey, Bosco is #1

By Geoff Magliochetti: DonBoscoAthletics.com

Few could argue with that the Don Bosco Prep Ironmen belonged at the top of the New Jersey High School Football Rankings. However, when it came to topping the national polls, the obvious choices were teams like St Thomas Aquinas (Florida) and Byrnes (South Carolina).

However, when Byrnes fell to Aquinas, and Aquinas fell in their state playoff game, the Ironmen rose to number one in the country. Not too many people could argue that the Ironmen were a great team, but the top ranking simply solidified their reputation as one of the greatest modern high school dynasties.



If I told you a running back had 1,387 yards with 34 touchdowns on the year, who do think I would be talking about? Heisman winner Mark Ingram from the University of Alabama? Wrong. NFL superstar Adrian Peterson? Wrong again. The answer is Bosco running back Tony Jones. Jones ran for an average of 7.9 yards per carry, leaving defenses across the nation scratching their heads. The running was complimented by a dual passing game led by junior Gary Nova and sophomore Mike Yankovich. No matter who threw the ball, there would always be someone to catch it. Names like seniors Jimmy Clark and Ryan Cobb, regularly appeared in postgame box scores after the two combine for 17 touchdowns. And whether a running back or receiver got the ball, there was always room to run thanks to a stellar offensive line consisting of seniors Brandon Sacco, Adam Kurtz, Kurt Schmitz, Peter Meile, and junior Andrew Benvenuto.

On the defensive side of the ball, the Ironmen were led by intimidating line. Led by seniors Bryan Murphy, James Kitteredge, Billy Meile, and junior Paul Canivari , the line combined for 21.5 sacks. The linebacker corps, headed by seniors Paul Sakowski, Steele Devito, Cobb and junior Lars Larson, not only knew how to tackle, but could also force plenty of turnovers. And the all senior secondary featuring seniors Chris Brady, Dan Chun and Andrew Parilla combined for 7 interceptions. As for special teams, the younger brother of former Bosco hero Pat Murray, Aidan Murray, took over kicking and punting duties, while senior Chris Burrell handled returns.

The Ironmen started the year with big expectations, and what better place to start the year than at the friendly confines of Granatell Stadium? The Ironmen took on their old nemesis from the West, the Spartans of De La Salle (California). Unlike the contest in Concord (which came down to a last second field goal), the Ironmen quickly put away the Spartans. Before most fans had settled into their seats, the Ironmen had jumped out to a 16-0 lead. They eventually took the game 30-6. After a bye week, it was off to the Deep South in Prattville, Alabama. The Lions tried to intimidate the Ironmen with an elaborate pregame show, complete with a sign that read, “You’re from the North, but we see no one above us,” Once again, the Ironmen jumped out to an early lead, with three Jones touchdowns making it a 23-0 lead. After the Lions scored 24 unanswered points to take the lead, two Burrell touchdowns sealed the deal, giving the Ironmen a 35-24 victory. Jones finished the game with a career high 223 yards on 20 carries.

Easy wins over Passaic, Clifton and Kennedy followed the Prattville win. A showdown with the hated Bergen Catholic Crusaders awaited the Ironmen on a rainy Saturday night. Due to the flood like conditions, the game was moved to Sunday afternoon. The Ironmen faced a challenge from the Crusaders, but Jones’s four touchdowns propelled them to a 28-20 victory. The Ironmen met little resistance the rest of the way, plowing their way through the playoffs, and holding off an early challenge from St Joseph’s Regional on Thanksgiving. They outscored their five opponents 264-58 during the five game stretch.

In the Ironmen’s final appearance at the old Giants Stadium, they faced a familiar foe in the St Peter’s Marauders. The Marauders, still fuming over a 42-9 beatdown the Ironmen bestowed upon them four weeks earlier, came up pumped, but any momentum they had was killed after a crushing Chris Corvino hit on the opening kickoff. A Cobb interception set up another Jones touchdown, and the rout was on. St Peter’s made a small comeback, but they couldn’t stop Jones who ran for 218 yards and all five Bosco touchdowns in the snowy 35-15 victory.

As the sun sets on yet another football season, the Ironmen once again see themselves on top. This time, however, they are the champions of the entire country. But this is no time to be satisfied. They will return to practices this summer more determined than ever to repeat as not only state champions but national champions as well. When faced with a challenge like this, most teams would cringe and make excuses. The Ironmen smile and take the field.

Beyond Bergen and Beyond Jersey, Bosco is #1

By Geoff Magliochetti: DonBoscoAthletics.com

Few could argue with that the Don Bosco Prep Ironmen belonged at the top of the New Jersey High School Football Rankings. However, when it came to topping the national polls, the obvious choices were teams like St Thomas Aquinas (Florida) and Byrnes (South Carolina).

However, when Byrnes fell to Aquinas, and Aquinas fell in their state playoff game, the Ironmen rose to number one in the country. Not too many people could argue that the Ironmen were a great team, but the top ranking simply solidified their reputation as one of the greatest modern high school dynasties.



If I told you a running back had 1,387 yards with 34 touchdowns on the year, who do think I would be talking about? Heisman winner Mark Ingram from the University of Alabama? Wrong. NFL superstar Adrian Peterson? Wrong again. The answer is Bosco running back Tony Jones. Jones ran for an average of 7.9 yards per carry, leaving defenses across the nation scratching their heads. The running was complimented by a dual passing game led by junior Gary Nova and sophomore Mike Yankovich. No matter who threw the ball, there would always be someone to catch it. Names like seniors Jimmy Clark and Ryan Cobb, regularly appeared in postgame box scores after the two combine for 17 touchdowns. And whether a running back or receiver got the ball, there was always room to run thanks to a stellar offensive line consisting of seniors Brandon Sacco, Adam Kurtz, Kurt Schmitz, Peter Meile, and junior Andrew Benvenuto.

On the defensive side of the ball, the Ironmen were led by intimidating line. Led by seniors Bryan Murphy, James Kitteredge, Billy Meile, and junior Paul Canivari , the line combined for 21.5 sacks. The linebacker corps, headed by seniors Paul Sakowski, Steele Devito, Cobb and junior Lars Larson, not only knew how to tackle, but could also force plenty of turnovers. And the all senior secondary featuring seniors Chris Brady, Dan Chun and Andrew Parilla combined for 7 interceptions. As for special teams, the younger brother of former Bosco hero Pat Murray, Aidan Murray, took over kicking and punting duties, while senior Chris Burrell handled returns.

The Ironmen started the year with big expectations, and what better place to start the year than at the friendly confines of Granatell Stadium? The Ironmen took on their old nemesis from the West, the Spartans of De La Salle (California). Unlike the contest in Concord (which came down to a last second field goal), the Ironmen quickly put away the Spartans. Before most fans had settled into their seats, the Ironmen had jumped out to a 16-0 lead. They eventually took the game 30-6. After a bye week, it was off to the Deep South in Prattville, Alabama. The Lions tried to intimidate the Ironmen with an elaborate pregame show, complete with a sign that read, “You’re from the North, but we see no one above us,” Once again, the Ironmen jumped out to an early lead, with three Jones touchdowns making it a 23-0 lead. After the Lions scored 24 unanswered points to take the lead, two Burrell touchdowns sealed the deal, giving the Ironmen a 35-24 victory. Jones finished the game with a career high 223 yards on 20 carries.

Easy wins over Passaic, Clifton and Kennedy followed the Prattville win. A showdown with the hated Bergen Catholic Crusaders awaited the Ironmen on a rainy Saturday night. Due to the flood like conditions, the game was moved to Sunday afternoon. The Ironmen faced a challenge from the Crusaders, but Jones’s four touchdowns propelled them to a 28-20 victory. The Ironmen met little resistance the rest of the way, plowing their way through the playoffs, and holding off an early challenge from St Joseph’s Regional on Thanksgiving. They outscored their five opponents 264-58 during the five game stretch.

In the Ironmen’s final appearance at the old Giants Stadium, they faced a familiar foe in the St Peter’s Marauders. The Marauders, still fuming over a 42-9 beatdown the Ironmen bestowed upon them four weeks earlier, came up pumped, but any momentum they had was killed after a crushing Chris Corvino hit on the opening kickoff. A Cobb interception set up another Jones touchdown, and the rout was on. St Peter’s made a small comeback, but they couldn’t stop Jones who ran for 218 yards and all five Bosco touchdowns in the snowy 35-15 victory.

As the sun sets on yet another football season, the Ironmen once again see themselves on top. This time, however, they are the champions of the entire country. But this is no time to be satisfied. They will return to practices this summer more determined than ever to repeat as not only state champions but national champions as well. When faced with a challenge like this, most teams would cringe and make excuses. The Ironmen smile and take the field.

Greg Toal, Don Bosco Prep head football coach, never shies away

The man standing across from Greg Toal seemed carved from granite. He was a natural middleweight, but recent time in prison had piled his body with muscle and bulked him to about 200 pounds. Now classified a heavyweight, the man had nearly 100 fights under his belt.

It was 1976 and Toal had walked into the basement boxing gymnasium in Paterson only four days earlier. Before then, he had never slipped on gloves or punched a heavy bag. He had never been in a boxing ring.

Greg Toal, Don Bosco Prep head football coach, never shies away

The man standing across from Greg Toal seemed carved from granite. He was a natural middleweight, but recent time in prison had piled his body with muscle and bulked him to about 200 pounds. Now classified a heavyweight, the man had nearly 100 fights under his belt.

It was 1976 and Toal had walked into the basement boxing gymnasium in Paterson only four days earlier. Before then, he had never slipped on gloves or punched a heavy bag. He had never been in a boxing ring.