MSG Varsity: The Magazine 2011 Fall Edition

FALL 2011
FOOTBALL, SOCCER, FIELD HOCKEY AND MORE!
Dakota Edwards
Sayville
Debi-Michelle Jantzen
Shoreham-WR
Stacey Bedell
William Floyd
Cari Roccaro
East Islip
Isaiah Barnes
Freeport
FALL 2011
FOOTBALL, SOCCER, FIELD HOCKEY AND MORE!
Devin Fuller
Old Tappan
Emily Wold
Freehold Boro
Amanda Berntsen
Chatham
Luke St. John
Fair Lawn
FALL 2011
FOOTBALL, SOCCER, FIELD HOCKEY AND MORE!
Zach Zurita
Bunnell
Samantha Macchio
Joel Barlow
Karolyn Collins
Norwalk
Shane Nastahowski
Greenwich
FALL 2011
FOOTBALL, SOCCER, FIELD HOCKEY AND MORE!
Laray Smith
Xaverian
Emma Bozek
Lakeland
Phoebe Dawkins
Bronx Science
Mike Wagner
Monroe-Woodbury
WEEKNlGHTS AT 7PM
Jared Greenberg Steve Gelbs
SPORTS. SCORES. EXPERTS.
30 minutes of exclusive Long lsland stories from...
[OLZJOVVSZ[OH[TH[[LYTVZ[[V`V\
iO TV CHANNELS 14 & 614
MSGVARSITY.COM
iO TV CHANNELS 14 & 614
MSGVARSITY.COM
3
Editor-in-Chief
Brett Topel
Art Director
John Tomaselli
Senior Writers
Kevin Devaney Jr. (@MSGVarsityHVC)
Brian Fitzsimmons (@FitzWriter)
Gregg Sarra (@MSGV_Sarra)
Contributing Writers
Lauren Brill, Lou Brogno, Dylan Butler,
Isaac Cass, Stephen Haynes, Bob Herzog,
Mike Gavin, Jared Greenberg, Evan Korn,
Pat O’Keefe, Mike Quick, Jesse Quinlan,
Adam Ronis, Shawna Ryan
Photographers
Mike Stobe, Frank LoCascio, Dave Hahn
Copy Editor
Ian Bross
Contributors
Larry Goldman, Adam Lebowitz, Bill McGlone,
Brad Serton, Jefferson Wilson
Ad Design
James Grasso, Gregory Heim
Printer
Printing Spectrum
Cover Photo by Mike Stobe
General Manager
Theresa Chillianis
Senior Vice President & Executive Producer
Michael Lardner
Vice President-High School Partnerships
Jennifer Ostrager
Vice President-Digital Platforms
Jonathan McCarthy
Vice President-Marketing
Philip Summers
Vice President-Public Relations
Jennifer McIntosh
Vice President-Finance
Dara Romano
Vice President-Programming Operations
Sean Kennedy
To contact MSG Varsity, email us at:
[email protected]
Follow MSG Varsity on Twitter
@MSG_Varsity
The beginning of the school year offers everyone a fresh start. Students,
parents, teachers and the entire community are able to rekindle friendships,
establish new relationships and focus on high school life. To that end, I am
proud to welcome you to the fall edition of MSG Varsity The Magazine.
Now that another summer is behind us, the pages of this magazine have
everything you will need to follow the red-hot action on the field this fall.
Throughout the issue you’ll find previews and rankings for fall sports,
including football, boys and girls soccer, field hockey and girls volleyball.
You can also read about MSG Varsity’s new regional broadcasts of High
School SportsDesk, which will allow you to enjoy more coverage of YOUR
school! Also, be sure to check out the “Your School, Your Stories” section,
which includes an up-close look at high schools throughout the tri-state.
So please enjoy this edition of MSG Varsity The Magazine, and let us
know what you think! You can always email us any comments you have
at [email protected].
Sincerely,
Theresa Chillianis
General Manager, MSG Varsity
Photo: Brian Stanton
America’s largest, most advanced WiFi network is nowup to 5x faster than 3G and even
faster than 4G. Best of all, it’s free for OptimumOnline
®
customers. Plus, with Automatic
Sign In, after you sign in once, your mobile device will automatically connect whenever
you’re in an Optimum WiFi hotspot. Stay connected when you’re away from home in
tens of thousands of locations. Turn on your OptimumWiFi at optimumwifi.com today!
Don’t have Optimum Online? Call 1.888.298.6086.
Optimum Online customers can enjoy WiFi access in select areas at no extra charge. A WiFi-enabled device, Web browser and valid Optimum
®
ID and password are required. Speed claim based on Optimum WiFi at up to 15 Mbps and 3G at up to
3 Mbps. Many factors affect speed. Actual speeds may vary and are not guaranteed. Terms and conditions apply. Pricing and offers subject to change. Visit optimumwifi.com to learn more. ©2011 CSC Holdings, LLC. M0810PRTA4
Turn on
your
Optimum
WiFi.
Turn on
your
Optimum
WiFi.
®
5
7
MSG Varsity Raises Its Game
MSG Varsity has launched regional editions of High
School SportsDesk, as well as an exciting new app.
8
Are You Ready For Some Football
Check out our 26-page section including everything you
need to know about tri-state high school football.
30
The Tri-State Makes its Mark
Jared Greenberg breaks down the tri-state football scene,
which has become a must-stop for college coaches.
32
Empire Challenge Recap
A photo retrospective of the 2011 Empire Challenge
football game between Long Island and NYC all-stars.
34
Boys Soccer
We break down the top boys soccer players to watch
and rank the top 10 teams in every region.
36
Girls Soccer
We break down the top girls soccer players to watch
and rank the top 10 teams in every region.
38
Field Hockey
We break down the top field hockey players to watch
and rank the top 10 teams in every region.
40
Girls Volleyball
We break down the top girls volleyball players to watch
and rank the top five teams in every region.
44
High School Spotlights
Read about four standout schools in the tri-state.
46
Fan Favorites
What’s your favorite on-the-go snack? You gave us your
picks!
54
A Look Back
Check out spring photos from events across the tri-state.
66
A Quick Column
Mike Quick rates his top 10 tri-state football players.
Photos from MSG Varsity The Magazine’s regional cover shoots:
(Clockwise from top) Mike Wagner, Monroe-Woodbury, HV;
Emily Wold, Freehold Boro, NJ; Karolyn Collins, Norwalk, CT;
Cari Roccaro, East Islip, LI. Photos by Mike Stobe.
Contents
THE BEST GAMES &
TOP RIVALRIES IN THE
TRI-STATE AREA
THE BEST GAMES &
TOP RIVALRIES IN THE
TRI-STATE AREA
Only on iO TV Channel 14
Fridays at 7pm
Go to MSGvarsity.com for updated schedules
iO TV CHANNELS 14 AND 614
MSGVARSITY.COM
7
For the past two years, MSG Varsity’s
High School SportsDesk has been deliver-
ing the latest sports highlights and sto-
ries from throughout the tri-state like no
other network. This year, it’s raising the bar, and
giving fans more of what they want—exclusive re-
gional coverage of their schools.
High School SportsDesk now has region-specific
shows for Long Island, New Jersey, New York City
and Westchester/Hudson Valley/Connecticut.
“Regional SportsDesks are another step in being
the dominant high school sports source,” said
Michael Lardner, the senior vice president and exec-
utive producer of MSG Varsity. “We’ll be able to go
deeper, and put some real perspective on regional
coverage.”
The Long Island and New Jersey shows will be
anchored by Jared Greenberg and Steve Gelbs,
while the New York City and Westchester/Hudson
Valley/Connecticut editions will be anchored by
Shawna Ryan and Keith Irizarry.
By going completely hyper-local, MSG Varsity will
be giving viewers more of the highlights that they
want to see on a daily basis.
“High School sports is a backyard interest,”
Lardner said. “By having separate editions of High
School SportsDesk, it really enables us to cover
all of the great stories going on throughout the spe-
cific regions.”
HS SportsDesk goes regional; Mobile app is launched
By Brett Topel
MSG Varsity Raises Its Game
MSG VARSITY ON-THE-GO
Beginning this fall, the exciting
new MSG Varsity mobile applica-
tion for iPad and iPhone will allow
users to create a custom digital ex-
perience for all high school sports
and activities. Users will be able
to create an interactive experience
based on region, school, sport or
activity, and view all of the latest
scores, photos and videos. Best of
all, programming on MSG Varsity
can be viewed live—anywhere,
at anytime—through the app.
Download the MSG Varsity app
this fall for free on iTunes.
MSGVARSITY.COM
MSG Varsity has always been on the cutting edge when it comes to
covering high school sports and activities. Now, MSGVarsity.com is
equal to the task! The newly designed website gives readers a front-row
seat for everything that’s going on at their school. In addition to com-
prehensive regional and sport-specific pages, MSGVarsity.com’s school
pages will represent each individual school’s students and all of the
great work that they do, both on and off the field.
High School SportsDesk anchors, from left, Steve Gelbs (@MSGV_Gelbs), Jared Greenberg (@MSGV_Jared),
Shawna Ryan (@MSGV_Shawna) and Keith Irizarry (@MSGV_Keith). Tune into ‘The Desk’ every weeknight at 7 p.m.
Photo by by Brian Stanton
L
o
n
g

I
s
l
a
n
d
N
e
w

J
e
r
s
e
y
W
e
s
t
c
h
e
s
t
e
r
/
H
u
d
s
o
n

V
a
l
l
e
y
C
o
n
n
e
c
t
i
c
u
t
N
e
w

Y
o
r
k

C
i
t
y
10 14 18 22 26
10
2011 Tri-State Football Preview
Freeport’s Isaiah Barnes
Photo by Mike Stobe
11
2011 Tri-State Football Preview
Can FrĞport Do
It Again?
By Bob Herzog
During the post-game handshake
of last season’s Class I Long Island
Championship at Hofstra, Freeport
quarterback Isaiah Barnes told
William Floyd running back Stacey Bedell: “See
you next year. We’ll put on another show.”
During the photo shoot for this magazine,
Barnes put his arm around Bedell and gave him
an up-close look at the ring.
An encore performance is possible. Freeport,
which beat Floyd, 62-35, in the highest scoring
game in LIC history, returns Barnes, who ran for
six touchdowns that day and threw for another.
Floyd returns its blazer, Bedell, who scored four
TDs, including a 91-yard return on the opening
kickoff.
The Red Devils and Colonials both were voted
No. 1 seeds by the coaches. They, along with
veteran-laden CHSFL champ St. Anthony’s,
again should be the top teams on Long Island
for 2011.
Nassau County
Conference I: Freeport, which has won two
straight L.I. championships, is once again dan-
gerous. Barnes is an unstoppable runner out of
the spread offense. … East Meadow will chal-
lenge, led by WR/S Rob Healy and two-way
lineman Dom Morales. … Oceanside graduated
the record-setting quarterback-receiver tan-
dem of Tyler Heuer and Gene Garay, but Hec-
tor Quintin should be a force on both lines. …
Farmingdale lost a number of key players, but
is always a contender. … Linebacker Evan Kap-
patos leads Syosset.
Conference II: Carey has never made it to
the LIC, primarily because Garden City always
seems to be in the way. That should be the case
this season as well. Carey returns leading rush-
er and tackler Rob Zorn. Garden City will be
led by elusive running back and receiver Patric
Berkery and kicker Ryan Norton. … Fleet wide
receiver Kyle Johnson, also a fine linebacker,
puts Elmont in the title picture.
Conference III: The return of 1,000-yard
rusher Ryan Fredericks is a primary reason
Lawrence is the favorite, ahead of defending
LI champion Lynbrook. Another reason is well-
named defensive anchor, middle linebacker
Chris Hercules. Second-seeded defending LI
champion Lynbrook must replace its Big Three
of Mike Kozlakowski, Paul Magliore and Travis
Lock. Hewlett returns running backs Sam Mar-
torella and Gabe Rodriguez, the latter also a
hard-hitting linebacker.
Conference IV: Seaford sails into 2011 with-
out many of the stars that helped it win 23 con-
secutive games before losing to Glenn in the
2010 LIC. But the Vikings’ tradition and ability
to reload makes them the favorite once again.
Seaford seeks its fifth-straight county champi-
onship and looks to extend its 41-game Confer-
ence IV winning streak. … Once again, Roos-
evelt is the closest contender. The Rough Riders
return a pair of big-play backs in Emmanuel
Jones and Erin Parker. The annual showdown
is Oct. 22 at Seaford.
12
2011 Tri-State Football Preview
William Floyd’s Stacey Bedell Photo by Mike Stobe
Suffolk County
Division I: For the past two seasons, Sachem North
has defeated Floyd in the regular season, only to lose
the rematch in the county championship game. Can
the Flaming Arrows finally reach the LIC in 2011? The
top-seeded Colonials are led by Villanova-bound run-
ning back Stacey Bedell, one of the fastest players on
Long Island. Lineman Brandon Winters will open holes
for Bedell and close them on defense. … Longwood is
a legitimate title contender, led by 300-pound Omari
Palmer and 270-pound Darius Greene. Both are bruis-
ing, two-way interior linemen.
Division II: In a balanced league, East Islip features
two-way tackle Todd Collins and RB/LB Tyler Rigo. …
Newfield returns FB/LB Ron Denig and QB/DB Mike
Silva. … West Babylon, meanwhile, is dangerous with
talented WR/DB Michael Richardson and RB/LB Reg-
gie Robinson. … Smithtown West features returning
all-Long Island defensive end Zack Naja, while Half
Hollow Hills West is led by Syracuse-bound RB/DB
Devante McFarlane.
Division III: Defending Class II Long Island champ
Bellport moves down one class. The Clippers’ new
coach is Joe Cipp III, son of legendary Joe Cipp Jr., who
retired with a Suffolk-record 211 victories. Quarterback
Justin Honce returns. … Defending county champion
Sayville is loaded on offense with quarterback Steven
Ferreira, running back John Haggart, and wide receiv-
ers James Rupp and Tom Hannan. … Huntington fea-
tures RB/LB Trayvon Toney.
Division IV: Amityville, with its explosive spread
offense, moves down from Division III and is the pre-
season favorite. The Warriors feature versatile two-
way back Willie White and RB/LB Da’Rell Hatcher.
… Defending Class IV Long Island champion Glenn
graduates quarterback Ryan Rielly and several other
key starters, but returns all-county wide receiver Nick
Wagner. … Perennial power Babylon is a highly re-
garded squad.
CHSFL
It’s always about encore performances for St. Antho-
ny’s. The Friars return several key starters from last
year’s team that won the Catholic league title for the
ninth time in 10 years with an 11-0 record. Foremost
among them are blue-chip defensive linemen Bryan
Rhodes, J.D. Hurt and Pat McHugh. The offensive line is
anchored by 285-pound center Matt Biscardi, who will
open holes for emerging tailback star Dariyan Riley. The
tradition of fine kickers continues with James Doktor.
For complete Long Island football coverage, including updated team and player rankings, log on to MSGVarsity.com!
Syosset’s Evan Kappatos Photo by Christopher Pasatieri/Newsday
13
2011 Tri-State Football Preview
Isaiah Barnes (QB) Freeport Senior, 6-foot-3, 180 pounds
Barnes led Freeport to the LI Class I title when he totaled seven touchdowns (six rushing, one passing) in a win over
Floyd.
Stacey Bedell (RB/S) William Floyd Senior, 5-foot-11, 180 pounds
Bedell scored four times in the LIC, including a 95-yard return on the opening kickoff. He rushed for a total of 1,658 yards
and 18 touchdowns. Bedell also made 105 tackles, including 49 solos, with two interceptions and two scores.
Matt Biscardi (OL) St. Anthony’s Senior, 6-foot-2, 285 pounds
The two-year starter was voted CHSFL all-league and was a key cog in the O-line as the Friars finished an 11-0 run and
won the CHSFL title for the ninth time in 10 seasons.
Dalton Crossan (RB) Sachem North Senior, 5-foot-10, 175 pounds
Crossan was a game breaker with great lateral moves, vision and strength,
who had 14 touchdowns and 1,065 yards rushing as a junior.
Steven Ferreira (QB) Sayville Senior, 6-foot-1, 190 pounds
On the verge of becoming the all-time career passing leader for TD’s and
passing yardage in Long Island history, Ferreira is the front runner for the
prestigious Boomer Esiason Award.
Evan Kappatos (LB) Syosset Senior, 6-foot-3, 255 pounds
The Braves' big backer earned the Piner Award given to Nassau's best
linebacker, for two straight years. The only other two-time winner was
Freeport's Clifton Smith in 1997-98.
Steven Marino (WR) Carey Senior, 5-foot-11, 175 pounds
Marino had a school-record eight receiving touchdowns and on the season
averaged 29.2 yards per catch.
Devante McFarlane (QB/DB) Half Hollow Hills West Senior, 6-foot-2, 190 pounds
McFarlane earned the MVP at the Penn State football combine. He chose to accept a scholarship to Syracuse. He’s a lock-
down cover guy who will move to quarterback.
Zack Naja (DL) Smithtown West Senior, 6-foot-2, 200 pounds
The all-Long Island selection is considered the best edge rusher on Long Island. He totaled 10 sacks and 76 tackles,
including 18 of them for losses, as a junior. He also had three defensive touchdowns.
Ryan Norton (K) Garden City Senior, 5-foot-10, 165 pounds
The all-Long Island selection drilled 45 of 48 extra point attempts. He set a school record with 38-straight extra points
and hit seven of eight field goal attempts.
For the remaining 90 players in the Long Island Top 100, log on to MSGVarsity.com
Sayville's Steven Ferreira
Photo by Alan J. Schaefer/Newsday
(Alphabetical)
14
2011 Tri-State Football Preview
Old Tappan’s Devin Fuller
Photo by Mike Stobe
15
2011 Tri-State Football Preview
Layers of
GreatneĬ in the
Garden State
By Brian Fitzsimmons
@FitzWriter
North
Bergen Catholic, in year two of the Nunzio
Campanile era, is set to play a tough sched-
ule that consists of several out-of-state con-
tests. Without question, the Crusaders are
slowly succeeding at closing the wide gap be-
tween them and their arch rival. … Don't forget
about St. Peter's Prep, which always seems
to be in the Non-Public Group 4 mix. The Ma-
rauders are a near lock for 10 wins, thanks to
West Virginia-bound quarterback Brandon
Napoleon. … Group 3 should offer great theater
once again, as Wayne Hills and junior quar-
terback Kevin Olsen look to clinch a second
straight sectional championship and seventh in
eight years. … However, the state’s most elec-
tric playmaker stands in their way. Devin Full-
er, a senior signal-caller who racked up 1,844
yards and 20 touchdowns through the air and
amassed a whopping 2,306 rushing yards and 32
scores on the ground, automatically makes Old
Tappan one of the most fascinating programs in
the region. … Look out for East Orange, Mont-
clair, Lakeland, Randolph, Morristown and
Madison to make some noise, too. … When it
comes to picking out a sleeper team, why not
DePaul Catholic? Any squad which trots out a
running back as fierce as Davon Jacobs should
be viewed as a threat week in and week out.
Central
While the pecking order in the North always
begins with Don Bosco Prep, bragging rights in
the Greater Middlesex Conference in the Cen-
tral part of the state are always up for grabs.
The talent-heavy conference is comprised of the
best teams in the area, meaning Piscataway
and Sayreville will be two of the top five jug-
gernauts in the state once again. The Chiefs of
Piscataway are propelled by junior quarterback
The goal for every football team in the Garden State revolves around one picturesque
moment: hoisting a sectional championship trophy at midfield on a chilly December
evening. For the best team in the area though, the upcoming campaign is about so much
more.
Don Bosco Prep, which won the mythical national championship in 2009 and executed a
magnificent encore by capturing a fifth-straight Non-Public Group 4 state title the following year,
opens this season as the best team in the country.
Armed with multiple Division I recruits—including defensive end Darius Hamilton, running
back/safety Elijah Shumate, wide receiver Leonte Carroo and defensive back Yuri Wright—head
coach Greg Toal and his boys are poised to continue their winning ways in pursuit of another shot
at the highest level of glory.
16
2011 Tri-State Football Preview
and star defensive back Nadir Barnwell
and should walk away with a second con-
secutive North 2 Group 4 title. Powerful
running back Delon Stephenson, mean-
while, anchors a strong offensive unit for
the Bombers of Sayreville, which is the
defending Central Group 4 champion. …
Even though the two powerhouses are
stationed in different Groups, their rival-
ry in their conference is not unlike that of
Bosco and Bergen. New Providence, Im-
maculata, Hunterdon Central and Lin-
den are teams to watch in this area, as
they are all capable of earning rings.
South
In the Shore Conference, Matawan will
have to make up for the loss of fleet-footed
quarterback Jared Allison, but the Hus-
kies possess arguably the section’s top
player in running back Cassius Williams.
Manalapan hopes the absence of cur-
rent Rutgers signal-caller Mike Bimonte
and current Wagner running back Josh
Firkser—the state’s leading rusher last
year—won’t send the program into re-
building mode. … In other parts of the
area, look for Freehold Boro, Rumson
and Shore Regional to make some noise
by defending their state crowns. … Nep-
tune, coming off a tough season, always
seems to be in the mix and could develop
into a serious championship contender.
In addition, plenty of squads who didn’t
open many eyes last year could turn some
heads this time around. One sleeper to
keep an eye on is Howell, which boasts
touchdown-slinging quarterback Ryan
Davies. The senior flirted with the state’s
passing touchdown record and the na-
tional completion-percentage mark before
cooling off in the second half, so it’d be
foolish to count out the Rebels and their
superstar leader. … The greatest sleeper
of all could very well be Colts Neck. A
season ago, the Cougars suffered eight
losses, but six of those setbacks were
by eight or less points and three of them
were by three or fewer.
For complete New Jersey football coverage, including updated team and player rankings, log on to MSGVarsity.com!
DePaul Catholic’s Davon Jacobs
Photo by Larry Berger
St. Peter’s Brandon Napoleon
Photo by John Quirk
17
2011 Tri-State Football Preview
Vin Ascolese (LB/FB) North Bergen Senior, 6-foot-2, 215 pounds
One of the most ferocious linebackers in the country, Ascolese is drawing
interest from a plethora of Division I programs. He will help North Bergen
establish itself as a true sleeper this season.
Nadir Barnwell (QB/DB) Piscataway Junior, 6-foot-1, 175 pounds
Barnwell isn’t just a fantastic quarterback, he is one of the top defensive backs
in the country. Named to the All-American Sophomore Team as a secondary
superstar, Barnwell is a threat in the air and on the ground as a signal-caller,
and will likely lead the Chiefs to a second-straight North 2 Group 4 crown.
Leonte Carroo (WR) Don Bosco Prep Senior, 6-foot-2, 200 pounds
Carroo will serve as the offensive mainstay on an Ironmen team ranked No. 1 in many national preseason polls. The
Rutgers-bound star recorded 1,100 receiving yards and 18 touchdowns last year, establishing himself as the most potent
deep threat in New Jersey.
Ryan Davies (QB) Howell Senior, 6-foot-3, 205 pounds
As a junior, Davies made quite a statement in the Shore Conference and in the state. Midway through the year, he was
even flirting with breaking the state’s all-time passing touchdown record as well as the national mark for completion
percentage (75.1 percent, held by former No. 1 overall NFL draft-pick Tim Couch).
Devin Fuller (QB) Old Tappan Senior, 6-foot-2, 185 pounds
The state’s most electric playmaker recorded 1,844 yards and 20 touchdowns through the air, and also amassed a whop-
ping 2,306 rushing yards and 32 scores on the ground in 2010.
Darius Hamilton (DE) Don Bosco Prep Senior, 6-foot-4, 245 pounds
The son of former New York Giant Keith Hamilton, Darius is one of the top recruits in the nation. The Bosco defensive
anchor will make his college decision in October.
Brandon Napoleon (QB/CB) St. Peter’s Prep Senior, 6-foot, 180 pounds
Napoleon, who gave a verbal commitment to West Virginia, passed for 955 yards and 10 touchdowns in his first year as
a starter. He’s a fantastic athlete who doubles as a shutdown cornerback.
Kevin Olsen (QB) Wayne Hills Junior, 6-foot-3, 200 pounds
Olsen became an unsung hero in 2010 for the Patriots, who are poised to capture a seventh sectional championship in
eight years. The junior has already received multiple Division I scholarship offers, and his stock will only improve this year.
Delon Stephenson (RB) Sayreville Senior, 5-foot-11, 175 pounds
The powerful runner hopes to prove himself as the state's best running back en route to enjoying another Central Group 4
crown.
Yuri Wright (DE) Don Bosco Prep Senior, 6-foot-2, 180 pounds
Wright made 45 tackles, and returned two of his six interceptions for touchdowns. The explosive, rising senior has a
plethora of Division I offers.
To see the latest team and player rankings, log on to MSGVarsity.com
North Bergen’s Vin Ascolese
Photo by by John Quirk
(Alphabetical)
18
2011 Tri-State Football Preview
Bronxville’s Christian Conway
Photo by Isaac Cass
19
2011 Tri-State Football Preview
Powerhouses
LĨk To Repeat
By Kevin Devaney Jr
@MSGVarsityHVC
Section 1
Class AA: New Rochelle has won the
last five Section 1 titles and is a favor-
ite again. Khalil Edney, a highly-tout-
ed junior, takes over at quarterback,
and Durrell Rice, Justin Douglas and
Anthony Caldararo make up the region’s
best defensive front. … White Plains
has a talented backfield trio in QB Jeff
Avery and running backs Paul Scottman
and Odaine Franklin. … John Jay-East
Fishkill with fullback/linebacker Bobby
Henderson, and Yorktown with lineman
Eric Cooley will contend. … Arlington and
Mahopac also pose challenges, and Scars-
dale could be a surprise team with speed-
ster Anthony Cugini.
Class A: State finalist Harrison faces a
slew of contenders this season. Horace
Greeley, and quarterback Justin Ciero, is
the slight preseason favorite. Harrison re-
turns two three-year starters in junior quar-
terback Vinnie Nicita and two-way lineman
Charlie Credendino. … Rye has a strong de-
fense, led by linebacker Joe Simolacaj and
safety Jake Meyerson. … Poughkeepsie,
John Jay-CR and Somers are all serious
threats, and Eastchester, Pelham and Os-
sining are sleepers. Winning a title in this
conference will be rigorous.
Class B: Croton-Harmon is a heavy fa-
vorite to repeat with a senior class that
includes QB Jesse Mainiero and linemen
John Brennan, Dennis O’Connell and Kyle
Ricciardi. Westlake, with two-way lineman
Tommy Hopkins and QB John D’Onofrio, are
much improved.
Two Hudson Valley football programs that made history in 2010—Stepinac in
the CHSFL and Bronxville in Section 1—will be out to build on their success
this fall.
Stepinac has a wealth of talent back from the most decorated season in school
history. The Crusaders were undefeated for the first time ever, claiming the CHSFL AA
Division title and defeating inter-city rival White Plains on Thanksgiving Day.
With three potential Division I players in Austin Taps, Caleb Gilligan-Evans and Garfield
Heslop, Stepinac moves up to the mighty AAA Division.
“We’re not going to have any easy games,” said Gilligan-Evans, a fourth-year starter.
“You have to work harder each week. We have to keep getting better and better because
there are no easy games.”
Bronxville graduated its entire offensive and defensive lines, which were the cornerstone
of the last two Section 1 championship seasons. Last year’s line was billed the biggest in
the region and it paved the way to the school’s first ever state championship. Four of the
linemen are now at Division I and I-AA schools.
The Broncos return a dynamic duo in twins Christian and Jackson Conway, who will
start again in the backfield and at linebacker.
20
2011 Tri-State Football Preview
Class C/D: Bronxville and Dobbs Ferry, with fullback Tim
Soave, will likely square off again in the Class C title game. …
Defending Class D state champion Tuckahoe is in rebuilding
mode but is favored to claim its fourth Section title in a row.
Section 9
Class AA: Monroe-Woodbury, which has won the last seven
Section 9 championships, has a gifted athlete in Ryan Spelman,
and Justin Kaffenberger could be a breakout star. … Warwick
had a strong offseason and, as always, will put points up on the
scoreboard. … Newburgh will be strong up front with Mikal
Myers, who is one of the state’s top linemen.
Class A: Wallkill unseated five-time champ Cornwall last sea-
son and a title will likely come down to these two powers again.
Eric Wellmon is back at quarterback, and all-state senior Jah-
seim Davis anchors the defense. … Watch out for Monticello,
which has been one of the section’s fastest growing programs.
Class B/C/D: Reigning champs New Paltz (B) and Millbrook
(C) each suffered losses in graduation, leaving the door wide
open. … Marlboro will look to build on last year’s success after
reaching the Class B title game. … Chester, led by senior quar-
terback Anthony Ognibene, is aiming for its sixth Class D title
in nine years.
Private/Catholic: Iona Prep has holes to fill from a team that
made it to the CHSFL AAA Division championship last season.
But they have proven veterans in defensive back Justin Combs
and linebacker Matt Berni, and a strong foundation of young
talent. … Rye Country Day, led by star back Sam Stern, is the
top private school. … Sacred Heart, an independent school, will
look to build off last year’s 8-2 mark.
For complete Westchester/Hudson Valley football coverage, including updated team and player rankings, log on to MSGVarsity.com!
Harrison’s Vinnie Nicita Photo by Isaac Cass Rye Country Day’s Sam Stern Photo by Isaac Cass
21
2011 Tri-State Football Preview
Justin Ciero (QB) Horace Greeley Senior, 5-foot-10, 180 pounds
The standout signal-caller is a third-year starter who guided the Quakers to
the Section 1 Class A final last season. He ran for 1,258 yards and 13 touch-
downs, and threw for 792 yards to earn MSG Varsity Section 1 Player of the
Year honors.
Christian Conway (RB) Bronxville Senior, 5-foot-10, 210 pounds
A workhorse back, Conway is the key returning player for the defending
Class C state champions. Conway rushed for 1,720 yards and 26 touchdowns,
averaging 11.5 yards per carry, and earned first-team all-state honors.
Eric Cooley (T/DT) Yorktown Senior, 6-foot-3, 250 pounds
Cooley is potentially Section 1’s most underrated player. He is a force at tackle
and defensive tackle. Last season he averaged 5.6 tackles per game and three
sacks, and paved the way for a rushing attack that averaged 355 yards
rushing per game.
Justin Douglas (T/DT) New Rochelle Junior, 6-foot-4, 240 pounds
The five-time defending Section 1 Class AA champs got a major boost when Douglas transferred this summer from
Ketcham. The younger brother of CFL lineman Andre Douglas, Justin was an all-section player last year.
Odaine Franklin (RB/LB) White Plains Senior, 6-foot-2, 220 pounds
One of the most highly-touted and heavily-recruited players in Westchester, Franklin is poised for a tremendous season
in White Plains’ new spread offense.
Caleb Gilligan-Evans (FB) Stepinac Senior, 6-foot, 240 pounds
A starter since he was a freshman, the bruising senior rushed for 1,113 yards and 16 touchdowns as the Crusaders went
12-0 and captured the CHSFL AA Division championship.
Ryan Spelman (QB) Monroe-Woodbury Senior, 6-foot-3, 210 pounds
The strong-armed quarterback led the Crusaders to a Section 9 Class AA title in his first season as starter. Spelman
threw for 1,402 yards and 12 touchdowns, and ran for 892 yards and 20 scores.
Austin Taps (TE/DE) Stepinac Senior, 6-foot-4, 230 pounds
Taps was the anchor of one of the CHSFL’s best defenses last season. The relentless two-way standout had 65 tackles and
9.5 sacks for a first-team defense that allowed just 37 points in 12 games.
Eric Wellmon (QB) Wallkill Senior, 5-foot-9, 160 pounds
The gritty senior burst onto the scene last season, leading Wallkill to a Section 9 Class A title. Wellmon threw for 1,436
yards and 15 touchdowns and ran for 559 yards and seven scores.
A.J. Wolf (T/DE) Hackley Senior, 6-foot-4, 250 pounds
The explosive lineman is committed to play at Duke University next fall. He had a breakout junior season, recording 102
tackles in just eight games with two blocked punts.
To see the latest team and player rankings, log on to MSGVarsity.com
Horace Greeley’s Justin Ciero
Photo by by Isaac Cass
(Alphabetical)
22
2011 Tri-State Football Preview
Masuk QB Casey Cochran
Photo by Dave Choate
23
2011 Tri-State Football Preview
Masuk,
New CanĚn
Lead the Pack
By Jesse Quinlan
When the long-awaited and much-anticipated 2011 high school football season kicks
off in Connecticut, there will be plenty of eyes on Masuk and its prolific quarterback,
Casey Cochran.
Of course, Cochran and his teammates are no strangers to the spotlight, having
capped off a perfect season last December with an impressive 50-20 victory over New Canaan in
the CIAC Class L championship game.
Cochran threw for more than 3,345 yards and 40 touchdowns, and will attempt to lead the
Panthers back to Rentschler Field.
Also hoping for a return ticket to the state finals is New Canaan, a perennial powerhouse
under legendary coach Lou Marinelli, who has guided the Rams to five straight CIAC title game
appearances.
“That’s the goal, to be back at Rentschler Field on the last day of the season,” said Marinelli, whose
squad must replace the likes of Conor Hanratty (Notre Dame) and Kevin Macari (Georgetown).
“This is my 31st year at New Canaan and I still can’t wait to get going. Every team is a little bit
different, and this is another great group of kids. Like everyone else, I’m excited to get the season
underway.”
In addition to Masuk, the state’s other reigning champions are Xavier (Class LL), Hillhouse
(Class M) and St. Joseph (Class S), will try for a three-peat despite the loss of 21 starters, notably
the all-state duo of Joe Della Vecchia and Tyler Matakevich.
24
2011 Tri-State Football Preview
Breaking It Down:
FCIAC: Darien is coming off its first league title since
1998, but must replace seven first-team all-FCIAC se-
lections, including six from its vaunted defense that
carried the Blue Wave to a 17-7 victory over Trumbull in
the league finals. The Golden Eagles went on to reach
the Class LL championship game before falling to
Xavier, 24-13. … Staples, which turns the reigns over to
Jack Massie—the first sophomore quarterback to start
under Marce Petroccio—will try to advance to the state
tournament for the eighth time in nine seasons. … Oth-
er teams coming off winning seasons are Bridgeport
Central, Brien McMahon and Stamford, which held
six opponents to seven points or less behind first-year
coach Bryan Hochter. Led by rookie coach A.J. Alba-
no, McMahon enjoyed a three-win improvement and
is poised for more success with first-team all-FCIAC
quarterback Damien Vega back in the fold. … Green-
wich, which has captured five league and three state
titles since 1999, but stumbled to a 5-5 mark for its
worst finish under coach Rich Albonizio, is determined
to end a three-year absence from the postseason.
SWC: Defending champ Masuk, which scored a state-
best 638 points and allowed a state-low 106 last sea-
son, is the prohibitive favorite as it returns three all-
state players, including Cochran, the premier recruit
in all of Connecticut. … Pomperaug, Newtown and
Brookfield all won at least eight games in 2010. Then
there’s fellow Colonial Division foe Bunnell, which
averaged 33 points a year ago en route to a 7-3 mark
and has a talented roster highlighted by junior quar-
terback Brian Castelot and Division I prospects Jawad
Chisholm and 300-pounder Nick Salza. … In the Patriot
Division, Weston is coming off a 6-4 season but moves
forward without the graduated Eddie Hutchins and
his 1,137 yards and 17 touchdowns.
NVL: Coach Dan Dunaj is excited about the potential
of his Torrington squad, and it’s easy to see why, with
a big offensive line opening holes for record-setting
running back Brenden Lytton. The Red Raiders, 7-3
last season, kick off the season against Ansonia in
what could be the game of the year in the NVL. … Wa-
tertown won six games in 2010, and will look for an-
other winning season despite losing the likes of Matt
Quatrano (20 touchdowns, seven interceptions).
REST OF THE REGION: St. Luke’s is fresh off a
share of the FAA title for the first time in 12 years. …
The Forman School is aiming for a return to the HVAL
championship after advancing there for the first time
in school history. … In the SCC, Foran finished up 5-5
in 2010 and coach Jeff Bevino would love for this sea-
son to end the way his softball campaign did in the
spring when he guided the Lions to their second state
title in school history.
For complete Connecticut football coverage, including updated team and player rankings, log on to MSGVarsity.com!
McMahon QB Damien Vega
Stamford’s Carlos Martinez
Photo by Isaac Cass
25
2011 Tri-State Football Preview
Casey Cochran (QB) Masuk Senior, 6-foot-1, 200 pounds
Cochran threw for a state-best 3,345 yards and 40 touchdowns in leading the undefeated Panthers to the CIAC Class L
title. He is verbally committed to UConn.
Austin Calitro (RB/LB) Danbury Senior, 6-foot-2, 235 pounds
Calitro is one of the top recruits in the state. A tackling machine for the Hatters, he is verbally committed to Villanova.
Jawad Chisholm (WR/DB) Bunnell Senior, 6-foot-1, 175 pounds
Chisholm totaled 35 catches for 884 yards, 12 touchdowns and 52 tackles in 2010. Penn State has shown interest in him.
Derick Edwards (WR/DB) Norwalk Senior, 5-foot-9, 160 pounds
One of the most explosive players in the region, the speedy Edwards caught 30-plus passes for over 300 yards and rushed
for over 200 last season. Edwards was chosen second-team all-FCIAC.
Brenden Lytton (RB) Torrington Senior, 5-foot-10, 175 pounds
A dynamic game-breaking threat, Lytton is one of the state’s top returning rushers after piling up nearly 2,400 yards and
29 touchdowns as a junior. He scored a state-record nine TDs in a 61-28 win over Wilby last October.
Colin Markus (RB) Masuk Senior, 6-foot-1, 185 pounds
The all-state back ran for 1,535 yards and 25 touchdowns, while averaging
8.6 yards per carry. Markus fueled the ground game for the state’s highest-
scoring offense.
Matt Milano (QB) New Canaan Senior, 6-foot-2, 190 pounds
A pinpoint passer, Milano helped lead the Rams to their fifth straight state
title game in his first year under center. He set school records for passing
yards (3,128) and touchdowns (42).
Mike Money (OL) Fairfield-Warde Senior, 6-foot-4, 280 pounds
The 6-foot-4, 280-pounder was named first-team all-FCIAC last season.
Money is also a powerful run blocker.
Shane Nastahowski (RB/LB) Greenwich Senior, 6-foot-1, 220 pounds
A blue collar, two-way standout with superior strength, Nastahowski has
already received offers from Temple and Akron.
Brandon Williams (DT) Bassick Senior, 6-foot-3, 232 pounds
The agile defensive lineman was named all-state last season. Williams was
invited to Atlanta for a U-19 national team tryout.
To see the latest team and player rankings, log on to MSGVarsity.com
Greenwich’s Shane Nastahowski
Photo by by Mike Stobe
(Alphabetical)
26
2011 Tri-State Football Preview
Xaverian’s Laray Smith
Photo by Mike Stobe
27
2011 Tri-State Football Preview
NYC Making Its
Mark
By Pat O’Keefe
Long known for producing blue-chip
basketball talent, New York City
continued to show the rest of the
country that there is some pretty
good football being played within the five bor-
oughs.
Notre Dame, Stanford, UConn, Syracuse and
Rutgers, to name a few, each plucked talent
from out of the City to strengthen their pro-
grams. Look for that trend to continue in 2011.
PSAL:
Wayne Morgan carries that torch for New York
City this year. Erasmus Hall’s starting quar-
terback since the end of his freshman season,
Morgan had already received offers from Bos-
ton College, Rutgers and UConn before step-
ping onto the field as a senior. Morgan and
fellow prospect Shaquell Jackson form NYC’s
top backfield and already have four years of
starting experience between them. Looking to
lead Erasmus to its first football title since 1987,
they’ll try to follow the advice of E-Hall alum Al
Davis and “Just win, baby.” … Before they can
think championship, the Dutchmen first have to
become the best team in Brooklyn. That title is
currently held by Fort Hamilton, which ended
the 2010 season in grand fashion, becoming the
latest team to be crowned a champion under
the bright lights of Yankee Stadium. The Tigers
outlasted Lincoln, 8-6, in a defensive slugfest.
Fort Hamilton looks to go back-to-back, as it did
in 2005-06. The Tigers carry a 32-game regular
season winning streak into 2011.
When sizing up the PSAL in 2011, you’ll be hard
pressed to find a more formidable team than
Tottenville. Last year, the Pirates had their
own undefeated season going until they ran
into Fort Hamilton in the City semifinals. They
have the most dynamic QB-WR combination in
the City with junior Brandon Barnes throwing
to Syracuse-bound Alvin Cornelius III. In his
20th season at the Staten Island school, Jimmy
Munson has a good shot to win his first title
since 2003.
Other contenders include Lincoln, which will
look for a return to the City championship
behind one of the best runners in the City in
Kareem Folkes, and Thomas Jefferson, one of
the big surprises of 2010, which has a ton of
offensive firepower led by Al Stewart and Xave-
rian transfer Kendall “Speedy” Thomas.
28
2011 Tri-State Football Preview
CHSFL:
Even with Thomas’ transfer, Xaverian
still has perhaps the most athletic roster
in New York City. Juniors Zach Kearney
and Laray Smith, and senior TuShaun
Plummer, lead an offensive attack that
will resemble a track meet. As Xaveri-
an chases its first CHSFL title, it is also
looking to become the first team from the
five boroughs to win the Catholic League
championship since Monsignor Farrell in
2000.
Fordham Prep came close last year.
The Rams went 10-1, reached the ‘AAA’
semifinals for the first time and had, by
all accounts, the best season in program
history. But Fordham’s season was end-
ed, like the seasons of many other teams
before, by eventual champion St. An-
thony’s. Hoping to duplicate last year’s
success, head coach Pete Gorynski looks
to Logan Williamson, who took over as
the primary ball carrier in the middle of
last year. … Mount St. Michael hopes
to bounce back from a 5-5 finish. They
took some momentum into the offseason
by beating Cardinal Hayes, 37-30, in last
year’s Turkey Bowl. Kenny Acquah’s 56-
yard touchdown was the decisive score
in that one, and he’s back to anchor the
Mountaineers’ backfield. … Holy Cross
should be in the ‘AAA’ playoff hunt as
well, with Yianni Gavalas taking over as
the full-time QB and the speed of Shy-
heim Wingate.
Other: Year in and year out, Poly Prep
puts one of New York City’s best teams
on the field. This year shouldn’t be any
different. Kevin Gabon is now the full-
time quarterback and leads the Blue
Devils’ offensive attack, hoping to fill the
void left by the transfer of Faton Bauta.
… Poly Prep was the last team to beat
Fieldston, but that was back in Septem-
ber, 2009. Since then, Gus Ornstein’s
team has run off 16 consecutive wins.
They are also on a run of four straight
Hudson Valley league titles.
For complete New York City football coverage, including updated team and player rankings, log on to MSGVarsity.com!
Erasmus Hall’s Wayne Morgan
Photo by Mike Stobe
Lincoln’s Kareem Folkes
Photo by Angel Chevrestt
29
2011 Tri-State Football Preview
Brandon Barnes (QB) Tottenville Junior, 6-foot, 185 pounds
Barnes led the PSAL with 22 TDs and was third in the league with 1,110 passing yards.
Alvin Cornelius (WR/CB) Tottenville Senior, 6-foot-2, 190 pounds
The Syracuse-bound standout had 11 touchdowns and six interceptions for scores, both best in the PSAL a year ago.
Prince Dukes (QB) Curtis Sophomore, 6-foot-2, 160 pounds
He doesn’t just have the coolest name in the city, Dukes also threw for 707 yards and six scores as a freshman.
Kareem Folkes (RB/DB) Lincoln Senior, 5-foot-10, 175 pounds
Folkes was third in the PSAL in rushing yards (944) and had seven touchdowns for the PSAL finalists.
Kevin Gabon (QB) Poly Prep Senior, 5-foot-10, 190 pounds
The dual-threat quarterback will handle all the snaps after Faton Bauta transferred to Dwyer (Fla.).
Wayne Morgan (DB) Erasmus Hall Senior, 5-foot-11, 188 pounds
The standout defensive back counts Alabama, Miami, Notre Dame and
Michigan as suitors.
Travon Segure (DB/WR) Fort Hamilton Junior, 5-foot-11, 170 pounds
As a sophomore, Segure ran, caught and passed offensively and had five
interceptions for the city champions.
Donchervel Smith (LB) Canarsie Junior, 6-foot-2, 275 pounds
Smith led the PSAL with 94 tackles, and had six sacks as a sophomore.
Laray Smith (RB/DB) Xaverian Junior, 6-foot-2, 170 pounds
The speedster was third in the CHSFL ‘AAA’ in rushing with 828 yards
and 11 TDs.
Kareem Turnage (LB) Campus Magnet Senior, 5-foot-10, 220 pounds
Turnage was second in the PSAL with 85 tackles and had four sacks.
To see the latest team and player rankings, log on to MSGVarsity.com
Fort Hamilton’s Travon Segure
Photo by by Damion Reid
(Alphabetical)
30
2011 Tri-State Football Preview
Beyond the Boxscore
The 2010 football sea-
son provided us with
countless memories, and
listing them all would turn
this column into a novel. With
your best interest in mind—and
a very strict editor—I’ve nar-
rowed it down to the biggest
story line from last season:
the quarterbacks.
Regardless of where you live in
the tri-state, quarterbacks stole
the headlines, from Gary Nova
(Don Bosco, NJ) to Tyler Heuer
(Oceanside, LI), Tyrell Good-
man (Stepinac, WC) to Joe Della
Vecchia (St. Joseph-Trumbull,
CT). Those signal-callers, and
many more, posted mindbog-
gling statistics.
As we turn the page to 2011,
what will the theme be this fall?
While there will be some elite
quarterbacks, other positions to
keep an eye on this season will be
the running backs, receivers and
defensive backs. Players at these
positions will not only win games
on the field, but will also be the
dominant group from this year’s
senior class to receive college
scholarships.
Some of the top “skill” posi-
tion prospects from around the
tri-state include: Wayne Morgan
(RB, Erasmus Hall, NYC), Devante
McFarlane (RB, Half Hollow
Hills West, LI), Delon Stephen-
son (RB/DB, Sayreville, NJ) and
Jawad Chisholm (WR/DB, Bun-
nell, CT).
These guys—and others—are
so good, that college coaches from
around the country have made
the tri-state area a “must visit”
during the fall. Local football
fields have become a destination
for college coaches looking for the
next superstar and/or diamond in
the rough.
* * *
The most intriguing aspect of
the 2011 tri-state football sea-
son will be the growth of this
year’s junior class. This group
of highly regarded student-ath-
letes has already distinguished
itself, and colleges from all over
the country have taken notice.
Everyone will be paying particu-
larly close attention this fall to
see if they can take the next step.
It’s exciting for fans to know
that some of the best football
players in the nation still have two
years remaining in high school.
Here’s a look at my Top 10 football
prospects from the Class of 2013:
By Jared Greenberg
@MSGV_Jared
Tri-State Football
Shows Off Skills—and Youth
Kevin Olsen
QB (Wayne Hills HS, NJ)
Nadir Barnwell
QB/DB (Piscataway HS, NJ)
Tashawn Bower
TE/DL (Immaculata HS, NJ)
Chris Laviano
QB (Holy Trinity HS, LI)
Justin Douglas
OL/DL (New Rochelle HS, WC)
Robert Mahon
OL/DL (Randolph HS, NJ)
Laray Smith
RB/DB (Xaverian HS, NYC)
Al’Quadin Muhammad
DL (Don Bosco Prep, NJ)
Ricky Jeune
WR (St. Joseph Reg, Mont, NJ)
Charlie Callinan
WR (St. Peter’s Prep, NJ)
Tri-state Football Match-ups
That Should Not Be Missed:
September 16: Sayville vs. Islip
September 17:
Longwood vs.
William Floyd
September 30:
Bergen Catholic vs.
Don Bosco
October 2:
Tottenville vs.
Erasmus Hall
November 4:
Piscataway vs.
Sayreville
November 24: Greenwich vs. Staples
Erasmus Hall’s
Wayne Morgan
Photo by Mike Stobe
;OL4:.=HYZP[`(WWPZOLYL
Download it at iTunes for free to your iPhone, iPod Touch or iPad
;OL4:.=HYZP[`(WWPZOLYL
Download it at iTunes for free to your iPhone, iPod Touch or iPad
NOW GET MSG VARSITY WHEREVER YOU ARE. NOW GET MSG VARSITY WHEREVER YOU ARE.
Get sco|es and a|e|ts fo| voµ| sc|oo|, watc| ||g|||g|ts,
see o|oto ga||e||es, ente| contests and mo|e...
Get sco|es and a|e|ts fo| voµ| sc|oo|, watc| ||g|||g|ts,
see o|oto ga||e||es, ente| contests and mo|e...
*VTPUN[V+YVPKZZVVU *VTPUN[V+YVPKZZVVU
32
2011 Tri-State Football Preview
The 16th annual Empire Challenge was played on June 21, 2011 at
Hofstra University. In a hard-fought game benefitting the Boomer
Esiason Foundation and its effort to fight to cure Cystic Fibrosis,
the Long Island All-Stars defeated the New York City All-Stars, 17-14. For
the first time ever, the contest was televised live on MSG Varsity.
In addition to the game’s great success on the field, students from three
Long Island high schools had the opportunity to cover the action from
the sidelines. Deer Park’s Steven Lynchard, Oceanside’s Evan Pivnick
and Tom Maher and Holy Trinity’s Patrick McCormack covered the game,
spoke with players, coaches, MSG Varsity broadcasters, and had the
opportunity to interview former star NFL quarterback, Boomer Esiason.

ALL PHOTOS BY FRANK LoCASCIO
Looking Back at the
Empire Challenge
The game was as close it could be, with New York
City and Long Island battling the entire night.
Holy Trinity’s Patrick
McCormack interviews
MSG Varsity’s Mike Quick.
Deer Park’s Steven Lynchard
prepares for an interview.
MSG Varsity’s Jared Greenberg
addresses the students.
The Long Island team celebrates its hard-fought win.
Oceanside’s Evan Pivnick
interviews NFL-great
Boomer Esiason.
MSG NETWORKS. HOME OF:
SLAPSHOTS, HARD CHECKS ALONG
THE BOARDS, GRITTY 4TH-LINE CENTERS,
GOAL SONGS, HENRIK LUNDQVIST,
SCREAMING FANS, SMART ANALYSIS,
“ONE MINUTE LEFT IN THE PERIOD,”
ZACH PARISE, SHOOTOUTS, CHIPPED TEETH,
5-MINUTE FIGHTING MAJORS,
AL TRAUTWIG, CRAZY RICOCHETS,
LET’S GO RANGERS, BLUE LINE TO
BLUE LINE, JOHN TAVARES, DROPPING
THE GLOVES, POWER PLAYS, HAT TRICKS,
SHORTHANDED GOALS…
THE PUCK DROPS OCTOBER 7TH.
MSG.COM CABLEVISION MSG 71 / MSGHD 716 MSG
+
72 / MSG
+
HD 717
34
BOYS SOCCER
Tri-State’s
Talent Runs DĞp
Boys soccer players to watch
LONG ISLAND
Myles Bent of St. Anthony’s is one
of the most complete players you
will find. Bent was a defender last
season, but will move to the midfield.
… Uniondale’s Nyder Chardonnette
is an exceptional athlete with lots
of speed and skill. … Sayville senior
Dakota Edwards had seven goals and
nine assists to help his school win its
first state Class A championship last
season. … Donovan Fraser of Half
Hollow Hills West was an All-Ameri-
can last season and leads an explosive
offense. … West Islip senior Sean Sepe
is a three-year starter at forward. He
scored 17 goals last season.
NEW JERSEY
St. Joseph’s (Metuchen) Brandon
Allen is arguably the top player in the
state. He recorded 30 goals and four
assists for the Falcons last season. …
Tom Bull of St. Benedict’s Prep has
lifted his school to being the biggest
force in the Garden State, simply
because he his is the best goalie in
the area. … Ramapo rising junior
Sean Ethridge was named the Bergen
County Sophomore of the Year. … Chris
Hernandez of St. Benedict’s Prep is an
all-around player who does a little bit
of everything. … Mike Taranto, a ris-
ing junior at Ramapo, scored 18 goals
last season for the Green Raiders.
WESTCHESTER/
HUDSON VALLEY
Senior goaltender Alex Kapp of Iona
Prep is the premier keeper in the
CHSAA and, arguably, the tri-state.
… Scarsdale’s Tomas Penfold will
look to prove he’s the same player
after suffering an ACL injury last
March. … Mike Wagner of Monroe-
Woodbury is a stalwart sweeper who
commanded a defense that gave up
just five goals in 2010. … Ivan Marti-
nez of Rye Neck is an all-state scoring
sensation. … Iona Prep’s Cesar Ceja
is an all-CHSAA striker who has an
innate ability to finish. He buried a
team-high 18 goals to go along with
seven assists last season.
CONNECTICUT
In the Nutmeg State, keep an eye
on Bunnell senior Zach Zurita, who
finished the 2010 season with 33
goals and assisted on 16 others. …
His teammate, meanwhile, Sebastian
Tamayo posted 12 shutouts and made
138 saves en route to a spot on the all-
SWC squad. … New Canaan goalie
Scott Levene made the all-state team
a year ago as a sophomore. … High-
scoring senior midfielder Djordje
Pantelic of Platt Tech is another
returning all-state player in Class L.
… King junior forward Nicholas Hall-
Risko is coming off a 35-goal season.
NYC
As a junior, Mark Kramarchuk
anchored a Fordham Prep defense
that conceded just seven goals all
season, helping lead the Rams to the
Archdiocesan title and the CHSAA
Class A intersectional final. … Mor-
iken Sangary led the PSAL with 33
goals and had 16 assists and, along
with the return of Tarek Beckles, is a
big reason why the Knights are favor-
ites to win it all this year. … Francis
Lewis’ Danny Bedoya had nine goals
and seven assists last year, driving
the Patriots to the PSAL ‘A’ final. … St.
Francis Prep’s Chris Joseph combines
speed, creativity and a deft touch.
Players to Watch and Top 10 Teams compiled by Lou Brogno (NJ), Dylan Butler (NYC),
Isaac Cass (NY), Brian Fitzsimmons (NJ), Jesse Quinlan (CT) and Adam Ronis (LI).
Sayville’s Dakota Edwards
Photo by by Mike Stobe
Bunnell’s Zach Zurita
Photo by by Mike Stobe
35
Long Island
1.
St. Anthony’s: The Friars possess lots of talent,
including senior goalkeeper Anthony Lopatowski and
senior midfielder Myles Bent.
2.
Brentwood: The defending state Class AA
champions will attempt to win their fourth consecu-
tive Suffolk county championship with a team heavily
comprised of juniors.
3.
Commack: With just four starters gone from a
year ago, this team will be tough to beat.
4.
Chaminade: The defending CHSAA state cham-
pions always find a way to be in contention for the
title.
5.
Ward Melville: A very physical team with expe-
rience, led by senior defenders Shane Dineen and
Alex Wolfe.
6.
Half Hollow Hills West: The offense will be
potent again with senior forward Donovan Fraser, ju-
nior midfielder Brett Nason, and sophomore forward
Dylan Greenberg.
7.
Massapequa: The defending Nassau Class AA
champions graduated eight starters, but will be in the
mix again behind senior Dakota Barnathan and Com-
mack senior transfer Max Aronica.
8.
St. John the Baptist: The team will contend
for the CHSAA title behind Junior Rosero, a junior.
9.
West Islip: On a very experienced team that lost
just two starters, senior forward Sean Sepe and se-
nior midfielder Phil Denara are the linchpins.
10.
Uniondale: The team is on the rise with senior
forward Nyder Chardonnette and senior midfielder
Frankie Villegas.
New Jersey
1.
St. Benedict’s Prep: Armed with several of the
best players in the state, the Gray Bees are primed to
add to their illustrious history in 2011.
2.
Pingry: The Big Blue entered the sectional title-
game as the top seed, but was upset by St. Augus-
tine. This year is all about unfinished business for
Pingry.
3.
Christian Brothers Academy: It’s hard
to argue against the Colts, when talking about pro-
grams in the running, being labeled the best team in
South Jersey.
4.
Seton Hall Prep: The nationally known program
lost only two seniors, but one of them was all-state
goaltender Brandon Adler. If the Pirates can make up
for talent lost on defense, another stellar season is on
the way.
5.
Chatham: The Cougars return enough talent to
make a legitimate run at their first state crown since
they won the Group 2 title in 1999.
6.
Delbarton: The Green Wave, who finished 18-
2-4 after falling to Pingry in the North Non-Public A
tournament, have graduated 13 seniors. Who’s going
to step up?
7.
West Orange: The Mountaineers need to re-
place graduated goaltender Thomas Attamante if
they plan on constructing another run at a champion-
ship.
8.
Holmdel: Enjoying a storybook run in the state
playoffs en route to a Group 3 crown did wonders for
the reputation of the Hornets’ program.
9.
Don Bosco Prep: There’s plenty of hope for this
year.
10.
Clifton: The Mustangs look to reclaim their North
2 Group 4 crown after their run of three straight
crowns was derailed last campaign.
Westchester/HV
1.
Scarsdale: The Raiders return a pair of danger-
ous offensive players in central midfielder Tomas
Penfold and winger David Alemany.
2.
John Jay-East Fishkill: Dangerous striker
Ryan Young is back after burying a team-high 10
goals in 2010.
3.
Monroe-Woodbury: With talented seniors
Dylan Williams, Mike Wagner and Ryan Roethel re-
turning, Monroe-Woodbury has more than enough
firepower.
4.
White Plains: The southern Westchester power
will reload with a youthful and athletic roster, high-
lighted by mastermind junior midfielder Cristofer
Saldivar.
5.
Iona Prep: With a pair of the CHSAA’s most
talented players returning in keeper Alex Kapp and
scoring sensation Cesar Ceja, 2011 has all the mak-
ings of another historic year.
6.
Byram Hills: Burgeoning stars like Jordan Bank
will make sure the Bobcats’ winning tradition doesn’t
go by the wayside.
7.
New Rochelle: Talent is never an issue for New
Rochelle, which boasts a never-ending stream of
highly-skilled players. Of course, the Huguenots’
success in 2011 depends on how well all that talent
meshes together.
8.
Arlington: Second-year coach Craig Sanborn
has the talent and stability to get the program back
on track.
9.
Mahopac: With sophomore phenom Arun Ba-
suljevic holding down the midfield and junior striker
Joseph Iraola up top, Mahopac isn’t about to go
away.
10.
Port Chester: The Rams return a slew of players,
headlined by all-section midfielder Kevin Riveros.
Connecticut
1.
Bunnell: Every player returns for the Bulldogs,
who finished last season 18-2-3 and advanced to the
state finals for the first time in school history.
2.
New Canaan: Not only are the Rams coming off a
magical 2010 postseason run, but they lost only two
starters to graduation.
3.
Staples: The FCIAC’s most storied soccer pro-
gram has won three straight league championships
and 27 overall, but must replace seven senior stars.
4.
Watertown: Arian Hoxha (38 points as a junior),
Dave Hughes and the rest of the Indians have plenty
of motivation after falling in an epic state semifinal
match last season.
5.
Greenwich: Perennial FCIAC contenders, the
Cardinals have reached three league title games over
the last six years.
6.
Norwalk: Seniors Nic Zuniga and Chris Puente
are among the returning standouts from last year’s
team that went 14-2 in the regular season.
7.
Bridgeport Central: The Hilltoppers opened
plenty of eyes as a No. 26 seed in last year’s Class
LL tournament.
8.
)DLUÀHOG3UHS Led by Davie Bruton, an all-SCC
selection as a sophomore, the Jesuits are aiming for
their first league crown since 2005.
9.
Wilton: All-FCIAC senior sweeper Graham Par-
sons is among the returning players for the Warriors.
10.
)DLUÀHOG:DUGH It was a breakthrough year for
the Mustangs, who advanced to the FCIAC finals and
state quarterfinals for the first time.
New York City
1.
Martin Luther King: The perennial power-
house is stacked once again, bringing back some of
the City’s elite talent.
2.
Beacon: The Blue Devils enjoyed a magical post-
season culminated by their second City title. Star
goalkeeper Max Brown and Ryan Cupolo will try to
make it back-to-back titles.
3.
Francis Lewis: After an agonizing loss on pen-
alty kicks in the City final, midfield maestro Danny
Bedoya is back to try and push the Patriots over the
top.
4.
St. Francis Prep: Chris Joseph and Christian
Molano return for a St. Francis Prep team that lost to
Chaminade in the CHSAA state final.
5.
Fordham Prep: Mark Kramarchuk and Dylan
Cope are back for the CHSAA contenders, which
lost to rival Iona Prep in the final.
6.
Bayside: Beware of the Commodores, especially
with Santiago Moore, Danny Babar and Constantine
Pougiouklidis back from a team that went 10-4-1.
7.
Tottenville: Carlo Coladonato returns for a Tot-
tenville squad that reached the city semis.
8.
Archbishop Molloy: Michael Rodriguez and
Gabrielle Maurello return for mighty Molloy.
9.
Bronx Science: Keep an eye on the Wolverines,
especially with forward Julian Gilbey back.
10.
Christ the King: Virtually everyone is back from
a team that suffered an overtime loss in the CHSAA
‘A’ intersectional quarterfinals.
BOYS
SOCCER
36
GIRLS SOCCER
A Tour Around the Tri-State
Girls soccer players to watch this season
LONG ISLAND
East Islip’s Cari Roccaro had seven goals
and five assists last season en route to
being named Suffolk Class AA Player of
the Year, first team all-state and All-Amer-
ican. … Emily Ude of North Babylon was a
first-team all-state selection who can fin-
ish and also distribute. … St. Anthony’s
Margo McGinty is a defender known for
her versatility, field vision, and going on
the attack when needed. But she primarily
serves as the anchor of the Friars’ defense.
… Jill Mulholland of MacArthur is a pure
goal-scorer who earned second-team
all-state honors. … Massapequa’s Rosie
DiMartino—the youngest of four sisters
in the first family of Massapequa girls soc-
cer—has great foot skills and led the Class
AA state champions with 17 goals.
NEW JERSEY
Chatham’s Amanda Berntsen is one of
the best all-around soccer players in the
Garden State. … Nicolette Driesse of
Wayne Hills has been considered one of
the most talented scorers in North Jersey
since her sophomore year. … Watchung
Hills’ Monique Goncalves is the team’s
best defender. … Jennie Hornstra of Clif-
ton could be in line for more hardware. …
Katelyn Kraft of St. Rose scored 26 goals
as a junior, and is the Purple Roses’ reli-
able superstar.
WESTCHESTER/
HUDSON VALLEY
Samantha McGuire of John Jay-East
Fishkill is indisputably the best player
in Section 1. A four-year starter, McGuire
had 28 goals and six assists last season.
… Arlington’s Miranda Tarpey was a
second-team all-state pick last fall, and
has the ability to control the tempo and
distribute the ball. … Jenn Peters of
Minisink Valley is a goal-scoring machine.
The junior forward had 36 goals and six
assists last season. Yorktown’s Toriana
Patterson enters her fourth season as a
starter. … Bronxville’s Grace Devlin was
selected first-team all-state, posting 18
shutouts, including all four state tourna-
ment games.
CONNECTICUT
Greenwich’s Shannon Colligan is a star
striker who set a school record with 20
goals as a sophomore. … St. Joseph star
Alyssa Christo is coming off an 18-goal,
15-assist season in which she was named
to the all-New England first-team by the
National Soccer Coaches Association of
America. … Another standout from the
FCIAC is Norwalk’s sweeper and four-
year starter Karolyn Collins. … Barlow’s
Lily Creighton helped lead the Indians to
a 13-0-1 regular season in 2010. … One of
the top defenders in the region figures to
be Amity’s Tabitha Brown, an all-state
pick last year.
NYC
Phoebe Dawkins of Bronx Science
spent two weeks this summer studying
Oceanography; the senior will spend
the fall as the anchor of the Wolverines
defense, trying to win a second PSAL
title. … Beacon’s Jennifer Angione was
the Blue Devils’ most consistent and
dangerous player with 19 goals and 15
assists last year. … Leon Goldstein’s
Pamela Wishart was the PSAL’s leading
scorer with 32 goals as a sophomore. …
Summer Sofer had 29 goals as a fresh-
man, tops in Bronx-A and third in the city,
as Riverdale/Kingsbridge went 12-3.
Compiled by Lou Brogno (NJ), Dylan Butler (NYC), Kevin Devaney Jr. (NY), Brian Fitzsimmons (NJ), Mike Gavin (LI), Jesse Quinlan (CT).
Bronx Science’s Phoebe Dawkins Photo by by Mike Stobe
37
Long Island
1.
St. Anthony’s: Margo McGinty and Reanna
Marino lead a balanced team laden with talent. Its
only loss last season came in the state title game.
2.
Massapequa: The defending Class AA cham-
pions have a revamped defense, but return leading
goal-scorer Rosie DiMartino, midfielder Tori Maley
and goalkeeper EmmaLee Meyer.
3.
West Islip: Seeking a fourth-straight trip to the
county championship game, the Lions return their
top three goal scorers in Amanda Martinez, Chelsea
Weir and Kelsey Raschke.
4.
East Islip: East Islip is an experienced, veteran
team fueled by All-American Cari Roccaro, who is
joined by Brianne LaFemina and Rebecca Carucci.
5.
South Side: A perennial power led by Sam Ford,
Caitlin Wallace, Julie Beyar and Christina Klaum
look to avenge their upset loss in the county finals
last season.
6.
Northport: A strong attacking team with Kristi
Abbate facilitating through the middle and Rosy
Hayes and Cortney Fortunato finishing.
7.
Garden City: Keeper Christina Mangels and the
defending Class A state champs will look to be more
defensive minded. The offense will flow through mid-
fielder Jessica Stein and striker Taylor Hennig.
8.
MacArthur: A strong team on both sides of the
field returns entirely intact, led by offensive center-mid
Jill Mulholland and defensive center-mid Kelly Kempf.
9.
Kellenberg: It will be hard to keep up with the
speed of the CHSAA runners up, who are led of-
fensively by Amanda Barroca and Kirstin Wosleger
and defensively by Erica Berry and Taylor Falmon.
10
Smithtown East: The defending Class AA
county champs graduated 14 players but return a
core of Dominique Albano, Lyndsay Hartman, Taylor
Messina and Kelly Stumper.
New Jersey
1.
Lenape Valley: With nine starters and super-
scorer Nicole Rigby all returning, the sky’s the limit
for the defending Group 4 champions.
2.
Pingry: At 15-2-2 last year, the Big Blue hopes
to build off past success and make it past the North
Non-Public A final.
3.
Paul VI: The Eagles posted a 15-3-2 record en
route to an appearance in the South Jersey Non-
Public A championship game last season. Was it
just a stepping-stone?
4.
Red Bank Catholic: After earning a tie of the
sectional title, the Caseys proved last campaign
just how talented they are.
5.
Immaculate Heart Academy: With plenty
of returning contributors and a tie of the Non-Public
A last season, the Blue Eagles are primed to make
some noise this fall.
6.
Ramapo: The Green Raiders suffered their lone
regulation loss when they fell in the overall Group
3 semifinals. This season, Ramapo looks poised to
continue its success as a premier program in North
1 Group 3.
7.
Morris Knolls: The Golden Eagles, who finished
17-2-3 last season after falling in the North 1 Group 4
final to Livingston, graduated several players.
8.
Livingston: After leading the team to a North 1
Group 4 title and its first Essex County champion-
ship since 1993, Kate Schwindel—19th on all-time
state scoring list—moved on to West Virginia. So,
who steps up for the Lancers?
9.
Northern Highlands: Even in rebuilding
mode, the Highlanders will be a true force in Group
3 this season.
10.
Mahwah: The defending Group 3 champions
have their work cut out for them. However, don’t ever
count out the Thunderbirds on the soccer field.
Westchester/HV
1.
John Jay-East Fishkill: The Patriots are
the region’s top program despite their two-year
reign as Class AA state champs ending last season
in the Section 1 final.
2.
Somers: After going 17-1-1 last fall, the Tuskers are
front-runners in a competitive Section 1 Class A field.
3.
Bronxville: With goalie Grace Devlin and all-
state defender Shannon Crawford returning, the
Broncos are eyeing another deep playoff run.
4.
Minisink Valley: The Warriors are Section
9 favorites with junior Jenn Peters, who guided the
program to a string of playoff upset wins to claim
last year’s Class AA championship.
5.
Eastchester: Senior Marcelle Schepesi looks
to guide Eastchester to its second Section 1 Class
A title in three seasons.
6.
Scarsdale: The Red Raiders will vie for a
Class AA championship behind senior midfielder
Charlotte Miller, an all-state selection last season.
7.
Monroe-Woodbury: The Crusaders return a
talented duo in Andrea Pereira and Nicole Gerber.
8.
North Rockland: The defending Section 1
Class AA champions reload after stunning John Jay-
East Fishkill in the title game.
9.
Byram Hills: The Bobcats return a strong core
from a 10-6 squad, including Lauren Riggs, Claudia
Hammerschmidt, and Emma Benzie.
10.
Briarcliff: Sophomore Lauren Miller, who had
12 goals and 10 assists last year, and senior Sarah
Elkes take over the team.
Connecticut
1.
Greenwich: Among the returning players for
the defending FCIAC champion Cardinals are star
striker Shannon Colligan and junior Taylor Bucklin,
one of the premier goalies in the Northeast.
2.
Joel Barlow: The perennial power Falcons al-
lowed just six goals all of last season in capturing
the SWC crown while also reaching the CIAC Class
M semifinals.
3.
Westhill: Few teams have risen to the occasion
recently as well as the Vikings, who won the Class
LL title in 2009 and reached both the FCIAC and
state finals a year ago.
4.
New Canaan: Senior keeper Holly Burwick is
back in net for the Rams, who won the Class L title
two years ago before falling in the state semifinals
last season.
5.
Bunnell: The Bulldogs are coming off their best
season in school history at 16-5-2.
6.
Darien: Twenty-two different players scored last
season for the Blue Wave, who upset Watertown in
the second round of the L tournament. Marike Bravo
was all-state as a junior in 2010.
7.
Watertown: After moving up to Class L last sea-
son, the reigning NVL champion Indians earned the
top seed in the state tournament.
8.
)DLUÀHOG/XGORZH The Falcons have won 25
games over the last two seasons, and will try to pick
up where they left off last year when they won the
Class LL semifinals.
9.
St. Joseph: Returning for the Cadets are senior
Alyssa Christo and sophomore Samantha Grasso,
two all-state performers who led the team to 13 wins
and a trip to Class M quarterfinals.
10.
Wilton: The Warriors have reached the state
quarterfinals in eight of the last nine years, and have
a strong nucleus returning.
New York City
1.
Beacon: The Blue Devils are the defending PSAL
Class A champions and the favorites to repeat.
2.
Tottenville: The Pirates reached the PSAL ‘A’
final for the first time since 2006 and very well could
be back at Belson in November.
3.
St. Joseph Hill: The Hilltoppers return all but
two players from last year’s CHSAA Archdiocesan
finalist that had non-league wins against Beacon
and St. Francis Prep.
4.
St. Francis Prep: Wendy Avendano is the lead-
er of a Terriers squad that was young a year ago.
5.
Fontbonne Hall: There is plenty of young tal-
ent back from a Bonnies team that suffered its lone
loss of the season to nationally-ranked St. Anthony’s
(LI) in the postseason.
6.
McKee/Staten Island Tech: Jackie Bruno
and Breanna Brukalo pace a Seagulls team that
could battle for the City title.
7.
Archbishop Molloy: Victoria Antonino and
Casey Collins will be charged with trying to bring the
Stanners back to the CHSAA Class A title game.
8.
Petrides: Katrina Wiesner—the PSAL’s leader in
assists—and Victoria Roda, one of the top sweepers
in the City, both return.
9.
Bronx Science: Sweeper Phoebe Dawkins won
a City title as a sophomore and is hungry to end her
stellar career at Bronx Science with a second crown.
10.
Cardozo: With Katlyn Merino and Giuliana
Roselli back, Cardozo could win the division title.
GIRLS
SOCCER
Compiled by Lou Brogno (NJ), Dylan Butler (NYC), Isaac Cass (NY), Brian Fitzsimmons (NJ), Mike Gavin (LI), Jesse Quinlan (CT).
38
Field Hockey
Plenty of Talent to Go Around
Field hockey players to watch in the tri-state
LONG ISLAND
Shoreham-Wading River’s Debi-Michelle
Jantzen, who has been on varsity since
seventh grade, has improved each year.
Last season she exploded offensively,
leading Long Island with 42 points, and
leading her team to a fourth-straight Suf-
folk Class B title. … Alexandra Bruno of
Garden City led the Trojans to the Class B
state final, scoring 34 goals along the way.
… Goalkeeper Catherine Musnicki of
Pierson/Bridgehampton had a .890 save-
percentage and was lights-out in the post-
season. … Massapequa’s Kelsey O’Brien
is a constant threat to score, notching 17
goals last season. … Katie Trombetta of
Sachem East—as a freshman—scored 23
points and led the Flaming Arrows to the
Suffolk Class A final.
NEW JERSEY
Oak Knoll’s Teresa Benvenuti anchored
an offense that netted 132 goals in 28
wins last season, during which the Royals
captured the Tournament of Champions
title. … Natalie Cafone of West Essex fin-
ished 2010 with 46 goals and 30 assists. …
Oak Knoll’s Elizabeth Jacobsen recorded
10 goals and 13 assists for the best team in
the Garden State. This year, she’s poised
to become one of the most feared players
in the region. … Alexis Miller of West
Essex provides plenty of offensive punch
for a team which always seems to be in
the mix at the conclusion of autumn. ...
Freehold Boro’s Emily Wold is one of the
most potent skills players around.
WESTCHESTER/
HUDSON VALLEY
Emma Bozek was a first-team All-
American, with 31 goals and 22 assists,
to help Lakeland win its second-straight
NYS Class B title in 2010. … Bozek’s
teammate, Shannon Scavelli, possesses
one of the most dangerous shots in Sec-
tion 1. She led the Hornets in scoring
with 38 goals and 16 assists. … Rye’s
Emma Brinkman is an all-state star who
buried a team-high 25 goals last season.
… Brinkman’s teammate, Annie Van
Wagenen, is a two-time all-state player
who totaled 14 goals and 16 assists in
2010. … Mamaroneck’s Jessica Gardiner
led the Tigers to the NYS Class A finals in
2010, racking up 12 goals and 20 assists.
CONNECTICUT
Keep an eye on Greenwich senior Claire
Feeney, who was named first-team
all-state and all-FCIAC last year after
a 15-goal, 10-assist season. … Leading
the way for Greenwich Academy will
be senior Liv Tapsall, who piled up 24
goals in 2010. … Barlow’s Samantha
Macchio, a four-year starter, had seven
goals and seven assists last year and
was selected all-SWC and second-team
all-state. … Norwalk’s Christina Mace
returns after being chosen to the first-
team all-FCIAC and all-state squads. …
Staples’ Callie Hiner is another player
who is back after an all-FCIAC season
in 2010.
Compiled by Lou Brogno (NJ), Isaac Cass (NY), Brian Fitzsimmons (NJ), Stephen Haynes (LI), Jesse Quinlan (CT).
Shoreham-Wading River’s
Debi-Michelle Jantzen
Photo by by Mike Stobe Barlow’s Samantha Macchio Photo by by Mike Stobe
39
Long Island
1.
Garden City: The Trojans outscored opponents
88-7 and won a sixth straight Long Island champi-
onship, en route to the state Class B final. GC is led
by stars Alexandra Bruno and Catherine McTiernan.
2.
Ward Melville: In 2010, the Patriots won a
fourth consecutive Class A Long Island title. De-
spite losing 11 seniors, they’re seeded first in the
Suffolk pre-season coaches’ poll and return stand-
outs Vanessa Pryor and Kim Geiger.
3.
Sachem East: The Flaming Arrows, who took
Ward Melville to overtime in the Suffolk final, have a
talented young team, led by Katie Trombetta.
4.
Shoreham-Wading River: The Wildcats
won a fourth straight Suffolk Class B champion-
ship and return several key players, including Debi-
Michelle Jantzen and Kaitlyn Taddeo.
5.
Smithtown East: The Bulls, who reached
the Suffolk Class A semifinals, are always a power-
house. They’re led by forward Meg Rooney.
6.
Sayville: The Golden Flashes stormed through
the regular season before stumbling in the Suffolk
Class B final. Still, Sayville is a young team on the
rise led by Olivia Cabral.
7.
Northport: The Tigers have earned their stripes,
emerging as a force in Suffolk’s toughest confer-
ence (Division I). They’re led by goalie Gabby Gallo.
8.
Massapequa: The Chiefs won a second straight
Nassau Class A championship with a relatively
young team in 2010. They should only improve with
experience.
9.
Miller Place: The Panthers, a perennial con-
tender, won a very competitive Division III and
reached the Suffolk Class B semifinals.
10.
North Shore: The Vikings return several key play-
ers, including Isabella Ahrens and Lauren Gerard.
New Jersey
1.
Bridgewater-Raritan: Everybody wants to
talk about the Panthers’ TOC-winning boys lacrosse
team at the school. This fall, Bridgewater-Raritan’s
stacked field hockey squad will grab its share of
the buzz.
2.
Freehold Boro: After constructing a 23-3 re-
cord last year, Emily Wold and the Colonials are
hoping to be queens of Group 3 once again.
3.
Oak Knoll: The Royals punctuated an unblem-
ished 28-0 season with a 5-2 victory over Eastern in
the NJSIAA Tournament of Champions state final.
4.
Wall Township: The Crimson Knights will
need a hot start to fend off the potent competitors in
Group 3.
5.
West Essex: Armed with several returning play-
ers and one of the most dangerous scorers in the
state, is it a stretch to label the Knights as the team
to beat in Group 2? Absolutely not.
6.
Shore Regional: A Monmouth County pow-
erhouse, this club possesses enough talent to
improve on its 17-2 mark from 2010.
7.
Pompton Lakes: Passaic County’s best team
can make noise in the state playoffs.
8.
Central Regional: The biggest sleeper team
of the group, the Golden Eagles will build off their
13-3-1 campaign and become a true power in the
rough waters of Group 3.
9.
Arthur L. Johnson: After finishing 19-6 a
year ago, the Crusaders are poised to establish
themselves as Union County’s best.
10.
Chatham: Reaching 20 wins once again is a fea-
sible goal for the Cougars.

Westchester/HV
1.
Lakeland: Going for their third consecutive NYS
Class B title, the Hornets are one of the preeminent
Section 1 dynasties in any sport. With All-Ameri-
cans Shannon Scavelli and Emma Bozek returning
in 2011, don’t look for Lakeland to skip a beat.
2.
Rye: Coach Emily Fitzgerald’s squad returns sev-
en key players, headlined by all-state players Emma
Brinkman and Annie Van Wagenen.
3.
Mamaroneck: Mamaroneck will lean on its vet-
eran core of Jessica Gardiner, Alicia Meglio, Molly
Cohen and Jessica Corbin.
4.
Putnam Valley: A pair of all-section midfield-
ers—Erin McCrudden and Dana Tatnell—return to
anchor a Put Valley squad that will
be guided by former Rye JV coach
Leslie King, who stepped in to re-
place Toniann Cortina.
5.
Scarsdale: Scarsdale will look
to follow up last year’s stellar sea-
son. Look for sophomore Caroline
Knapp to step into a bigger role.
6.
Carmel: The Rams have the po-
tential be a surprise team in Section
1 Class A this season, as they re-
turn a ton of talent from last year,
including all-section forward Sara
Rattigan.
7.
Suffern: Despite losing the bulk
of its offense to graduation, the
Mounties should still be in the mix
in Section 1 Class A.
8.
Briarcliff: The Bears graduated
nine seniors, so they will lean on
returning veterans Rebecca Bianco
and Kristiana Roth.
9.
John Jay-East Fishkill:
Despite the loss of all-state star
Jade Dennett, the Patriots are still
among the best teams.
10.
Bronxville: All-league goalie
Katie Knox returns, as the Broncos
look to get back on top of Section 1
Class C.
Connecticut
1.
Darien: The Blue Wave own the nation’s longest
unbeaten streak at 76 games and have won four
straight FCIAC and state titles. Darien outscored
its opponents by a resounding 140-9 margin last
season.
2.
Greenwich Academy: The Gators have won
all 27 FAA titles since the tournament’s inception
in 1984, and are poised for more gold with eight
returning players.
3.
Wilton: Returning from last year’s impressive
12-win regular season are nine seniors, five juniors
and five sophomores.
4.
)DLUÀHOG:DUGH The Mustangs are coming off
their first trip to the FCIAC finals in 30 years.
5.
New Canaan: After a strong finish to the regu-
lar season, the Rams are aiming to at least reach
the quarterfinals of the Class M tournament for the
third-straight season.
6.
)DLUÀHOG/XGORZH The Falcons are looking to
build off last year’s breakthrough season.
7.
Greenwich: Ally Orrico, who has won state
titles as both a player and coach at Greenwich, has a
record of 39-18-3 since taking over the program
in 2008.
8.
Stamford: The Black Knights returned to promi-
nence last season after capturing back-to-back
state championships in 2007-08.
9.
Lauralton Hall: The Crusaders’ only regular
season loss last season came at the hands of SWC
rival Pomperaug, the Class L co-champion.
10.
Staples: Callie Hiner and the rest of the return-
ing Wreckers are aiming to improve upon last year’s
nine-win campaign.
Field
Hockey
Compiled by Lou Brogno (NJ), Isaac Cass (NY),
Brian Fitzsimmons (NJ), Stephen Haynes (LI),
Jesse Quinlan (CT).
Lakeland’s Emma Bozek
Photo by by Mike Stobe
40
GIRLS VOLLEYBALL
Net Wiħers
Girls volleyball players to watch
LONG ISLAND
Smithtown East’s Delia Phillips is one
of the most dominant players on Long
Island, and is the reigning League III
Player of the Year. Once again, she will
remain the focal point of the Bulls’ offense.
… Melissa Rigo of John Glenn made the
all-Long Island team while garnering
all-state honors for the second-straight
season. She is a game-changing presence
on both sides of the ball. … Wantagh’s
Jenny Ilibassi returns to a Warriors team
vying for a third-straight Nassau Class A
title. … Emily Clemens of Lindenhurst,
as a sophomore, garnered all-Long Island
and all-state honors while being named
her team’s MVP. … Emily Astarita is now
in her second season with Ward Melville
and her level of play will only improve.
NEW JERSEY
Randolph’s Cora Bidlack recorded 275
kills, 38 aces, 72 digs and 32 blocks last
season. With a slight spike in produc-
tion, this club could become a serious
championship contender. … Immaculate
Heart Academy’s Michelle Cruz has been
a strong contributor for the Blue Eagles
since her freshman year. IHA’s Raquel
Scott is poised to help the Blue Eagles
return to glory on the volleyball court
before she suits up for basketball sea-
son.… Hunterdon Central’s Emily Drew
already owns school records for total
assists in one season, assists in one
game, and average assists per match. ...
Joellen Kentner of Madison registered
181 kills, 70 blocks, 104 digs. What can
she do for an encore?
WESTCHESTER/
HUDSON VALLEY
Walter Panas’ Vivian Burcescu is Sec-
tion 1’s premier player. She totaled 226
kills, 57 aces and 130 digs in 2010. …
Lauren Etta of Haldane is an all-state
first-team standout who led the Blue
Devils to a second-place finish in the
2010 NYS Class D tournament. She
racked up 263 kills and 177 assists. …
Pelham’s Lauren Keller is an all-sec-
tion talent who had 448 assists and 62
serving aces last year. … Jessica Segal
carried Harrison and led Section 1 with
587 assists and adding 67 aces, 340
digs and 115 kills. … Ossining’s Saniya
Chong racked up a Section 1-best 327
kills in 2010.
CONNECTICUT
Ridgefield’s Meghan Kirchoff was a
first-team all-FCIAC selection, leading
the team to a 15-6 record while recording
188 kills, 192 digs. … Nancy Stablein of
St. Joseph was a second-team all-FCIAC
selection, and the centerpiece of a squad
that went 16-6 and reached the second
round of the Class M state tournament.
… Bunnell’s Jana Kmec is coming off a
remarkable season where she tallied 147
service points, 107 kills and 359 assists.
She was named all-state for the SWC
champions. … Mariel Schlaefer of Lau-
ralton Hall recorded 128 kills and 106 digs
for the 11-6 Crusaders. … Darien’s Char-
lotte Stevenson takes over as the leader
of the state’s most storied program. As a
junior, she had 162 kills and was named
third-team all-FCIAC.
NYC
Dominique Watt, who emerged as one of
the City’s top clutch players as a sopho-
more last year at Bronx Science, came up
huge in wins against John F. Kennedy.
… Cardozo’s Ashley Grubler has made
an impact since stepping on the court
as a sophomore. Last season, she had 19
kills in the title match as Cardozo won its
first crown since 1981. … Talia Colasante
helped guide St. Francis Prep to its fourth-
straight undefeated CHSAA champion-
ship. … Jenna Hoffman of Archbishop
Molloy stands tall on the court at 4-foot-11
and is a brilliant passer for the Stanners.
… Fontbonne Hall’s Lauren Ganun did a
little bit of everything last year, combin-
ing tremendous court vision, some finesse
and a powerful serve.
Compiled by Lou Brogno (NJ), Dylan Butler (NYC), Isaac Cass (NY), Kevin Devaney Jr. (CT), Brian Fitzsimmons (NJ), Evan Korn (LI).
John Glenn’s Melissa Rigo
Photo by by Joseph D. Sullivan/Newsday
Smithtown’s Delta Phillips
Photo by by James Escher/Newsday
41
Long Island
1.
Lindenhurst: The Bulldogs return the core
of a team that won the 2010 Class AA Long
Island championship, including junior setter
Emily Clemens and senior outside hitter Alys-
sa Marchino.
2.
John Glenn: Ten straight Long Island titles
at Class B and C have long established Glenn
as the Island’s top small-school program. Me-
lissa Rigo could lead the Spiders to a Class B
state title.
3.
Massapequa: The Chiefs aim for their 12th-
straight Nassau Class AA title and have the
talent to make it happen.
4.
Ward Melville: A factory for quality volley-
ball, the Patriots will look to bounce back from
last year’s county final loss to Lindenhurst.
5.
Smithtown East: Everything will run
through senior outside hitter Delia Phillips, the
reigning Suffolk Player of the Year who is ca-
pable of taking over games single-handedly.
New Jersey
1.
Hunterdon Central: Despite losing many
contributors to graduation, the Red Devils are
poised to repeat as South Jersey Group 4
champions.
2.
Immaculate Heart Academy: The North
Jersey powerhouse has a stranglehold on
the Non-Public landscape, and this season
should be no different.
3.
Old Tappan: The graduation of Aiyana
Whitney—now at Penn State—will certainly
dent the Golden Knights’ confidence, but this
crew will find a way to compete with the best.
4.
Ramapo: Replacing Princeton prospect
Nicole Kincade will be no easy task, but is
one test head coach Dave Van Hook and his
Green Raiders are ready to ace.
5.
Bogota: Rising junior Carly O’Sullivan is
back to guide the Bucs to a revenge run at the
Group 1 title.
Westchester/HV
1.
Hen Hud: Will the Sailors’ 172-game win-
ning streak against Section 1 opponents final-
ly come to an end? Well, it wouldn’t be wise to
bet against coach Diane Swertfager.
2.
Harrison: With everyone back from last
year’s Section 1 Class A championship
squad, the Huskies will be favorites to repeat
in 2011.
3.
Walter Panas: Blessed with Section 1’s
best player in Virginia-bound Vivian Burces-
cu, the Panthers have a good shot to avenge
last year’s Class A sectional finals loss to Har-
rison.
4.
Arlington: The two-time defending Section
1 Class AA champs will look to cement their
position as a dynasty.
5.
Pelham: Returning all-section talents
Lauren Keller and Loren Cecil will look to get
over the hump against a Sailors team that’s in
quasi-rebuilding mode.
Connecticut
1.
Darien: The Blue Wave (24-1) had won nine
straight state championships before losing in
the final last season. The dynasty should con-
tinue this fall.
2.
Greenwich: The reigning LL state champs
have plenty of talent to replace from a 22-2
squad, including five all-FCIAC players. Mirei
Kato, who had 83 digs and 22 aces last sea-
son, will carry the load.
3.
Bunnell: Jana Kmec leads a Bulldogs squad
that went 14-5 last season, captured the
SWC championship and reached the Class L
state quarterfinals.
4.
Lauralton Hall: The Crusaders return four
starters from an 11-6 squad that reached the
Class M state tournament last season.
5.
)DLUÀHOG/XGORZH The Falcons have
emerged as an elite program. They went 20-5
last season and lost to Greenwich in the LL
state championship game.
New York City
1.
St. Francis Prep: The Terriers have domi-
nated the CHSAA Brooklyn/Queens, going
undefeated and winning four consecutive
titles—and there’s no reason to believe they
will slow down this year.
2.
Cardozo: Led by standout senior outside
hitter Ashley Grubler, Cardozo is anxious to
prove last year’s success was no fluke.
3.
Francis Lewis: The Patriots are highly
motivated to put last year’s stunning defeat
to Susan Wagner behind them and, led by
5-foot-10 sophomore outside hitter Ragina
Anthony, have the talent to again make a run
at the crown.
4.
Susan Wagner: The Falcons surprised
coach Marco Altieri by going undefeated in
league play, shocking Francis Lewis in the
semifinals and reaching the final for their first
time.
5.
Fontbonne Hall: The Bonnies return a
strong core of last year’s squad that finished
second during the regular season in Brook-
lyn/Queens Division I with a 9-3 record.
GIRLS
VOLLEYBALL
Compiled by Lou Brogno (NJ), Dylan Butler (NYC), Isaac Cass (NY), Kevin Devaney Jr. (CT), Brian Fitzsimmons (NJ), Evan Korn (LI).
Pelham’s Lauren Keller
Photo by by Isaac Cass
42
Your School, Your Stories
A Look Behind the Desk
When it comes to high school foot-
ball, every weekend in the tri-state is
packed with hard-hitting action—and
we bring you all of the highlights on
High School SportsDesk.
For this column, I have decided to share three
of my favorite football stories that originated last
season, but still resonate loud and clear today.
Be sure to log on to MSGVarsity.com for more on
these, and other stories.
LI: STARS GO BACK
TO THEIR ROOTS
Stacey Bedell and Nick Scheld have gotten used to
showing off their skills on the football field. However, Bedell
and Scheld, longtime friends, also use their football IQ in
a different way, as volunteer coaches for the Patchogue-
Medford Raiders of the Long Island Youth Indoor Football
League (LIYIF).
“A lot of kids look up to me cause they know I play the
game of football and that I have a lot of experience,” said
Bedell, William Floyd High School’s star running back.
“Last time I was here a kid asked me for my autograph and
said he was my biggest fan.”
The LIYIF is the largest youth indoor football league in
the country, and serves kids from age five to 13. Recently
the kids of the Patchogue-Medford Raiders were without a
coach and were in danger of not being able to play. That’s
when another high school star stepped in.
Scheld, a linebacker at Chaminade, played in the LIYIF
and says the ability to practice the sport he loves in the off-
season made all the difference once reaching high school.
And he wasn’t about to let the Raiders miss out on the
opportunity as well.
“I heard my dad on the phone trying to get coaches for
a five-year-old team and I asked what would happen if they
didn’t get a coach,” Scheld recalled, “and he said they
wouldn’t be able to play this season. So I immediately of-
fered to volunteer and when he said yes I called up my friend
Stacey.”
NJ: NOTHING FOWL ABOUT THIS
As we look ahead this football season, we start to think about all of the great Turkey
Bowl rivalry games throughout the tri-state.
One that I really look to each year is the 53-year-old Turkey Bowl tradition in Mercer
County between Hamilton West and Hamilton East, also known as Steinert.
Last season, Hamilton West defeated Steinert, 29-14, on Thanksgiving Day, but one
year earlier, it was Steinert that enjoyed the victory. So the 2011 game will break the
two-season deadlock. Overall, Hamilton West currently leads the series 33-19-1, with
the one tie in 1989.
“It’s nothing you can describe unless you’ve lived it and been here and felt the en-
ergy in the stadium when these two teams come together,” said Tom Dolina, assistant
coach at Hamilton. Dolina also played in the game while in high school.
Both teams say playoffs are great but the barometer for a successful season is this
Thanksgiving Day rivalry!
NYC: FORT HAMILTON CAN STILL BRAG
As the 2011 season gets fully underway, NYC bragging rights still belong to Fort
Hamilton High School. Those rights were earned when the battle of two unbeaten
PSAL schools, Fort Hamilton and Lincoln, took place at—of all places—Yankee Stadium.
Given everything that was riding on the game. it was not surprising that tickets were
hard to come by at Fort Hamilton High School.
“We got 3,000 tickets from the PSAL and by sixth period, about 11 a.m., all the
tickets were gone,” said Tigers head coach Daniel Perez.
That support paid off for Fort Hamilton, which defeated Lincoln, 8-6, to win the
championship.
Prior to the game, Hamilton star Brandon Reddish seemed prophetic about the
impact the game would have.
“It’s gonna be the biggest game for all of our lives. … I just want to leave with a ring,”
the senior wide receiver said.
In the end, Reddish and his teammates did just that.
For more on these feature stories, log on to MSGVarsity.com
Shawna Ryan is co-anchor of MSG Varsity’s High School SportsDesk
and writes her column, Behind the Desk, on MSGVarsity.com.
Some memorable storylines
from the gridiron
By Shawna Ryan
@MSGV_Shawna
43
MSG Varsity’s
Student Reporters of the Year
For the first time this past spring, MSG Varsity The
Magazine included a selection of articles written by
students from throughout the tri-state region. For
two of those students—Patrick McCormack and
Kerry Hannan—it was the precursor for an even bigger honor.
McCormack, who was a junior at Holy Trinity Diocesan
High School, was named the MSG Varsity Long Island Stu-
dent Reporter of the Year. An accomplished sports writer, Mc-
Cormack contributed more than a dozen articles on his school
and school sports to MSGVarsity.com, displaying tremendous
talent and a dedication to providing positive content about his
school throughout the year.
McCormack capped off his successful year by covering the
16th Annual Empire Challenge, during which he interviewed
players, MSG Varsity broadcasters, and former NFL star quar-
terback and event organizer, Boomer Esiason.
Hannan, who was a senior at Immaculata High School, was
named the New Jersey Student Reporter of the Year.
A talented writer who reported on a vast number of top-
ics covering school activities including student and faculty
features and school news, Hannan contributed more than
20 articles to MSGVarsity.com, displaying an uncanny ablilty
to make everything going on at Immaculata a fun read.
“As MSG Varsity continues to expand its journalism pro-
gram, it is inspiring to see such great work from students such
as Patrick and Kerry,” said Brett Topel, MSG Varsity’s Director
of Content Development and Editor of MSG Varsity The Maga-
zine. “We congratulate the winners and media advisors for all
of their hard work and know that this is just the start of a fine
tradition at MSG Varsity.”
Holy Trinity and Immaculata were among the 30 partici-
pating schools in “Project J,” MSG Varsity’s pilot journalism
program that kicked off in December, 2010. The program has
now been expanded to all schools and all aspiring high school
journalists throughout the tri-state.
DO
YOU
For MSG Varsity The Magazine?
WANT
TO WRITE
By submitting your articles to MSG Varsity, you will have the
opportunity to be featured on MSGVarsity.com and pos-
sibly even in MSG Varsity The Magazine. Articles must
be about any of the positive stories going on in your school.
After your article is approved by a teacher or faculty member,
just email it to: [email protected]. Please be sure
to include the name and contact information of the teacher or
faculty member when you submit your story!
Immaculata’s Kerry Hannan with MSG Varsity’s Andrew Robinson
Holy Trinity’s Patrick McCormack interviews Boomer Esiason
(photo by Frank LoCascio)
44
Your School, Your Stories
High School Spotlights
By Lauren Brill
In each issue of MSG Varsity The Magazine this school year, we will profile high schools from throughout the tri-state
region. In this edition, we take a look at four schools that are up to very exciting things on the athletic fields, in the
classroom, and in the Arts.
Olympic coaches are usually
reserved for Olympic athletes.
However, this summer the Paramus
girls volleyball team received a
special treat when Olympic coach
Ron Larsen served as a guest
instructor.
He helped the team, which finished
with a 14-11 record last year, prepare for
the season.
“It’s just really cool to have someone
who has so much skill,” senior Lindsay
Bukowski said. “We are learning from
the best. It’s really cool.”
While the volleyball team anticipates
future success, the baseball team
celebrated an impressive season this
past spring. The squad matched a
school record with 25 wins in a season,
which was set in 1964. It also captured
its ninth league title and third state
sectional title, making the 2011 season a
picture perfect ending to baseball legend
and varsity head coach Joe Cervino’s 30-
year career.
Off the field, Paramus’ music program
is no stranger to success. On multiple
occasions Paramus High School has been
named by the National Association of
Music Merchants Foundation (NAMM)
as one of the “Best Communities for
Music Education.” The nationwide award
recognizes communities and schools for
their commitment to music education.
Paramus’ extensive music program
includes band, wind ensemble, orchestra,
string ensemble, concert choir, honors
concert choir, jazz band, introduction to
music theory, advanced placement music
theory and music appreciation.
Another group of Paramus students
taking the stage are the actors and ac-
tresses. This year’s fall play is a murder
mystery comedy called “A Family Re-
union to Die For.” The theater program
is led by producer Michele Sarnoski and
director Joseph Ferriero.
In addition to the strong athletic, the-
ater and music programs the school also
offers a wide variety of clubs including a
chess club, DECA club and Mock Trial.
PARAMUS HIGH SCHOOL (NEW JERSEY)
Fair Lawn High School has a lot to
look forward to this year.
Senior Luke St. John, a two-sport star
athlete, is one of only four athletes in
New Jersey to the grace the cover of this
magazine. St. John plays an integral role
on the Cutters’ boys soccer team and
serves as a defensive specialist for the
powerhouse volleyball squad. Last year,
St. John, along with Dan Nugent—now
at Virginia Tech—propelled Fair Lawn’s
boys volleyball team to a 38-2 record and
the Tournament of Champions Title.
The girls basketball team, meanwhile,
will be looking forward to a solid season
this winter under second-year head coach
Chris Lovermi. Through summer tourna-
ments and camps, many members of the
team spent the offseason building chem-
istry. Expect returning senior guard Re-
gina Tillare, who averaged seven points
and 4.3 assists, to have an important role
in the team’s success.
In addition to Fair Lawn’s athletic ac-
complishments, the school also boasts
an award-winning musical theater pro-
gram, led by director John Giresi. Past
performances include “Bye Bye
Birdie,” “Dirty Rotten Scoun-
drels” and “Thoroughly Mod-
ern Millie.”
Members of the musical the-
ater group aren’t the only stu-
dents entertaining the town
with their sweet sound. Fair
Lawn’s marching band and col-
or guard have a long-standing
tradition of excellence. This
past year the Cutters scored a
90.750 out of a possible 100, to
place third at the New Jersey
State Championships in Old,
Bridge New Jersey. Their third-
place finish marked the team’s
best finish in the state competi-
tion since 2007.
Other strong programs at
Fair Lawn include its Math
league, Chemistry league, aca-
demic decathlon, Debate Team,
Computer league, the Future
Business Leaders of America
chapter and their Model United
Nations program.
FAIR LAWN HIGH SCHOOL (NEW JERSEY)
Cover Boy! Luke St. John is a two-sport star athlete at Fair Lawn
High School. Photo by Mike Stobe
45
In the heat of this past summer,
Yonkers High School earned a
big victory in an air-conditioned board-
room—football was coming back!
Budget cuts had threatened the sea-
sons of seven high schools in Yonkers
including Yonkers High School. However
despite the financial troubles, the seven
Yonkers schools are back on the gridiron.
And while it was not a total victory for ev-
eryone, the board said they are working
towards bringing back soccer, volleyball
and the rest of the varsity fall sports.
“Although the district cannot guaran-
tee a complete interscholastic athletics
program, we will provide what we can,”
said Paresh Patel, the president of the
Yonkers Board of Education, in a district
press release.
While football being back is the biggest
news of this fall, Yonkers High School
ended its spring season on a high note.
The Bulldogs baseball team, led by coach
Mike Amendola, won 16 regular season
games and reached the Section 1 Class A
quarterfinals.
In the classroom, Yonkers is well
known for partnering with the Interna-
tional Baccalaureate (IB) program. The
IB program is a non-profit educational
foundation that works with educators
to implement programs that emphasize
an international education, resulting
in well-rounded students. The course
work is meant to challenge students
and includes an intercultural education,
which aims to promote peace through-
out the world.
Community service plays a pivotal role
in the school’s IB program. In order to
fulfill the students’ community service
requirements, many students annually
head north to Cape Cod.
In Cape Cod the students research Box
Turtles to help the National Audubon So-
ciety, an organization whose goal is to re-
store and conserve natural ecosystems.
Along with their community service, they
also receive a science educational experi-
ence.
With a strong IB program and many
other unique educational offerings,
through the years Yonkers High School
has received recognition nationwide for
their excellence in education.
YONKERS HIGH SCHOOL (WESTCHESTER)
The fact that East Rockaway High
School is part of the smallest
school district in Nassau County has not
had any effect on its school spirit. In fact,
East Rockaway has walked away with
top prizes in two of MSG Varsity’s most
competitive contests.
East Rockaway has earned a custom-
ized, inflatable blast tunnel for winning
Home Field Advantage, as well as a
scoring table from the Mascot Dash com-
petition.
However, the school has not been short
of wins elsewhere. Last season, the foot-
ball team finished with a 7-3 record. The
squad won the Big Four championships
and played at Hofstra University in the
Nassau County and Long Island cham-
pionships. The football team expects to
continue its success this season.
Many of those anticipated accomplish-
ments will be printed in The Gull, East
Rockaway’s student-run newspaper. The
Gull addresses issues and news related
to the school’s students and teachers.
Senior Josh Warner also provides the
school with news and information as
leader of The Rock’s TV news show. The
show, filmed by students in the morning,
is then streamed to all the classrooms
during homeroom. East Rockaway of-
fers students a newscasting class and,
thanks to several volunteers, students
work in a brand new studio.
In addition to honing their own crafts
and developing their own interests, stu-
dents at East Rockaway, along with fac-
ulty and parents, recognize the impor-
tance of charity.
The East Rockaway community puts
on an annual show called “Broadway By
The Bay,” a fundraiser held in the school’s
auditorium. At the event students sing
Broadway favorites such as “Put on a
Happy Face” and “On the Street Where
You Live.”
East Rockaway also has a strong mu-
sic program, technology program and
mock trial team, proving that although
the school is small, they still are reaching
great heights.
EAST ROCKAWAY HIGH SCHOOL (LONG ISLAND)
Winners: East Rockaway High School students celebrate after being presented with a customized blast tunnel
for winning MSG Varsity’s ‘Home Field Advantage’ contest. Photo by Ellen Schuerger
46
FAN FAVORITES
Snacking On-the-Go!
What’s your pick for a quick pick-me-up?
Apps To Keep
You Busy!
Pandora
If you like music, you
probably already knew
about Pandora, but
in case you didn’t, be
sure to pick up this
free app!
MSG Varsity
The wait is over! The
MSG Varsity app is
here and has every-
thing you need to
take the high school
experience with you!
Nora E. Leon M. Goldstein (NYC)
Natural Honey Oats Granola
Bar, because it’s healthy,
delicious and easy to throw
in my bag and eat before
or after my games.
Matt M.
Smithtown East (LI)
Trail Mix Bar, because it
tastes good and it has good
nutritional value.
Megan M. Sleepy Hollow (Westchester)
Chocolate-covered granola bars, because they
always give me energy until the next meal or
practice. Also, they curb my chocolate cravings!
Jean J. Midwood (NYC)
An apple, because it fills you up with lots
of energy!
Daphne A. Manchester Regional (NJ)
A PB&J sandwich, because it’s a great, easy
snack to have. It’s healthy and it fills you up.
Michael A. Roosevelt (Westchester)
An apple, because it gives me energy and
it tastes good.
Henry P. New Hyde Park (LI)
Pop Tarts, because they are so delicious and
come two in a pack!
Words With Friends
Friendships can actually
be in jeopardy once
you start playing this
interactive Scrabble
contest. Play multiple
games at the same time!
Flipboard
Named ‘App of the
Year’, it’s a great
way to share news,
photos and videos
with others.
Fruit Ninja
If you are finally out
of rehab for playing
Angry Birds, this one
will fill your time-
wasting needs!
Matt P. Wall (NJ)
Chocolate-chip chewy
granola bars, because
they are portable and
they taste great!
YOU
WHAT DO
WANT TO SEE ON
THIS PAGE?
Tell us at
[email protected]
Rock Star Guests.
Rock Star Host.
CHECK YOUR LOCAL LISTINGS
For more information,
visit fuse.tv/hoppus
© 2011 Fuse Networks LLC. Fuse is a registered trademark of Fuse Networks LLC. All rights reserved.
#hoppus
48
The Tri-State’s Got Talent!
MSG Varsity’s Talent Show a Big Success
From the moment The Talent Show premiered on MSG Varsity, it was apparent that high
school students throughout the tri-state had something to prove—they had talent!
During an eight-week span, 32 acts gatherered to compete in four categories: Best Male Vocal-
ist, Best Female Vocalist, Best Vocal Ensemble and Best Dance Ensemble. Each contestant sang
and danced with incredible energy, representing themselves and their schools in the best possible
light.
Visitors to MSGVarsity.com voted and selected, not only which acts would advance to the finals
in each category, but also which acts would take home the grand prize.
First-place winners had the opportunity to work with award-winning producers as part of a
two-day professional studio session and recorded a professionally produced demo CD (video for the
dancers). The grand prize also included a professional photo shoot for each of the winners.
MALE VOCALIST
Elya Vasiliev of Colts Neck High School in New Jersey
was crowned the winner in the Best Male Vocalist
category.
Vasiliev, who sang Frank Sinatra’s “Someone to
Watch Over Me” for his final round performance, beat
out Peter Richardson of Oceanside High School on
Long Island.
“I cannot believe what has happened to me,” said
Vasiliev. “I’m a 17-year-old teenage boy who sang all
his life at local clubs and parties and played guitar in
his bedroom every day. And now, by winning ‘MSG
Varsity’s Talent Show,’ I get to work with producers in
a studio and make a record. My dreams are becoming
a reality. Thank you!”
VOCAL ENSEMBLE
Kaleidoscope, a group of five students from New Jersey’s Cedar
Grove High School—Alea Caporrino, Caitlin Flynn, Darrah Maffet-
tone, Carly O’Hagan and Gabrielle San Roman—were crowned the
winners of Best Vocal Ensemble.
Kaleidoscope sang The Supremes’ “Baby Love” for their final
round performance and beat out Long Island’s Holy Trinity Select
Choir.
“We are overjoyed, because all our hard work has paid off!” Ro-
man said. “We are so excited to record our demo CD. Thank you so
much to all of our supporters and fans who voted for us!”
DANCE ENSEMBLE
Clarkstown North High School of the Hudson Valley was crowned
the winner as Best Dance Ensemble.
The team beat out New Jersey’s Piscataway High School in the
final round.
The Clarkstown North troupe included: Jackie Andrasko, Jenna
Balavram, Kim Ballard, Hannah Brinkman, Christina Connor, Alys-
sa D’Aquino, Gabby Delucia, Brielle Lipstein, Molly Ludlow, Celine
Nicolas, Kelly Park and Melissa Sumadchat.
“It’s impossible to put into words how the team feels,” said team
coaches Peggy Finch and Stacie Bolin. “The emotion is indescrib-
able, and we’re sure it will carry on for a lifetime. The Clarkstown
community showed tremendous support and encouragement, and
saying ‘thank you’ just doesn’t seem enough. But from the bottom
of our hearts, thank you!”
FEMALE VOCALIST
Samm Sclafani of Long Island’s Commack
High School was named Best Female
Vocalist.
Sclafani, who sang “Come Sail Away”
by Styx for her final round performance,
beat out fellow Long Islander Trish Tor-
rales of Kellenberg High School for the
title.
“I am very thankful for the opportu-
nity and experience of participating in
‘MSG Varsity’s Talent Show,’” said Scla-
fani. “Words can’t describe how proud
and accomplished I feel. I know this is
a stepping-stone toward following my
dreams of becoming a singer. I feel like
the luckiest person in the world, and I
have so many people to thank—especial-
ly everyone who voted for me.”
iO TV CHANNELS 14 AND 614
MSGVARSITY.COM
IT’S YOUR TIME TO SHINE...
Sign up to audition for the 2012 Season
at MSGVarsity.com
50
V Awards Honor Best of the Best
This past May, MSG Varsity
and the New York Chapter
of the National Academy of
Television Arts and Sciences
announced the recipients of the 2011
MSG Varsity V Awards, which recognize
excellence in student-produced content
for television.
The winners were officially revealed
as part of a primetime special on MSG
Varsity, and were selected from more
than 3,600 submissions from high school
students across the tri-state area. Each
V Award-winning high school received
a $5,000 grant towards its multimedia
program, while each winning student
took home a specially designed V Award
trophy.
“The MSG Varsity V Awards allow
us to celebrate the amazing work being
created by an enormous group of talented
and passionate high school students
in our area,” said Theresa Chillianis,
MSG Varsity General Manager. “We are
thrilled to congratulate the winners,
their media advisors and schools and
all the participants. We look forward to
continuing to partner with them in sharing
their stories with their communities.”
In nine of the categories, entries were
judged by a panel of television, production
and broadcasting industry professionals
from MSG Varsity and NY NATAS. The 10th
category, Best Original Production, was
the viewer’s choice and the winner was
selected by online voting at MSGVarsity.
com.
“The V Awards program has once again
shown us that the future of our industry is
an incredibly bright one,” said Jacqueline
Gonzalez, executive director of the New
York Chapter of the National Academy
of Television Arts and Sciences. “It is so
encouraging to see such great work being
produced at so many schools throughout
our area, and makes us more optimistic
than ever about our next generation of
broadcast and production professionals.”
For information on how to get involved in this year’s V Awards, log on to www.msgvarsity.com/vawards.
One thing is clear, the next generation of broadcast professionals
will be a force to be reckoned with for years to come
Best Editing
Wayne Hills High School (NJ)
Matthew Trainor
Snooze
Best Feature
Wayne Valley High School (NJ)
Michael Sheptock
Bhargav Maheta:
A Running Miracle
Best Full Game Production
Wayne Hills High School (NJ)
Nick Appaluccio, Mike Beltramba, Paul
Gabbienelli, Jon Giardiello, Alex Green,
Ryan Kattine, Josh Mordkoff, Joe Rapp,
Anthony Scudillo, John Vittas
Wayne Hills vs. High Point Football
Best Full Game Coverage
by a Single Camera
Preston High School (NYC)
Ashley Persaud
Preston vs. St. Catherine’s Girls
Basketball
Best On-Air Talent
Sleepy Hollow High School (NY)
Richie Doyle
The Best of Richie Doyle
Best Play-By-Play/
Color Commentator
Wayne Hills High School (NJ)
John Vittas
John Vittas “Best of Play-By-Play”
Best PSA
East Side High School
(Newark, NJ)
Orlando Arana, Eduardo Navarrete,
Humberto Santos, Jessica Silva
Labels
Best Story of My School
Mattituck High School (LI)
Sharayah Carita,
Andrew Sendlewski
Tractor Day
Best Videography
Ridge High School (NJ)
Chris DeLorenzo
Awake
Best Original Production
(Viewer’s Choice Category)
Old Bridge High School (NJ)
Roseanne Benzon, Brandon Hulasiya,
Jon Marrero, Alex Nielsen, Steve
Vandervalk
Solus
2011 School Spirit Mania Grand Prize Winner Roy C. Ketcham High School
52
Beginning this September,
students can submit photos
to prove that their high school
exhibits the best gameday
atmosphere. Show how your team, your
cheerleaders and your band give your
school the winning edge!
The submission period will be open
until Sept. 28.
Three grand-prize winners will choose
either a customized inflatable blast tun-
nel, or a $5,000 gift certificate for sports
uniforms and equipment. Schools that
finish in second through 10th place will
receive a Game Day Review System,
which includes an HD television and Blu-
Ray player.
Beginning in October, fans can log on
to msgvarsityhfa.com to vote for their
school! The voting period will take place
over six weeks.
As an added twist, each week MSG
Varsity will provide hidden codes to
voters during telecasts of High School
SportsDesk. Voters can then enter the
hidden codes and one vote will count as
100 votes! The secret code can be used a
maximum of 50 times per school, mean-
ing that 5,000 bonus votes are available!
Voting concludes on November 21.
Does Your
School Have
What it Takes?
MSG Varsity’s Home
Field Advantage is
underway!
Grand Prize Winners!
2011 School Spirit Mania Grand Prize Winner Mount St. Mary’s Academy
THE WINNERS CIRCLE
iO TV CHANNELS 14 AND 614
MSGVARSITY.COM
Sunday through Friday at 6:30pm
54
Photo Central
L O N G I S L A N D
Smithtown
H. Frank Carey
East Islip
Chaminade vs. Manhasset
Northport
55
Log on to msgvarsity.com/magpics
and submit your photo today!
Bay Shore vs. Deer Park Farmingdale
Long Island Track
Half Hollow Hills East
Southold
Division
56
Photo Central
N E W J E R S E Y
St. Joseph (Metuchen) vs. Mountain Lakes Wayne Hills
Allentown
57
Log on to msgvarsity.com/magpics
and submit your photo today!
New Jersey Track
Ridgewood
North Bergen
St. Benedict’s
58
Photo Central
C O N N E C T I C U T
Greenwich
Lauralton Hall
Greens Farms
59
Log on to msgvarsity.com/magpics
and submit your photo today!
Staples New Canaan vs. Wilton
Joel Barlow
Westhill
60
Photo Central
W E S T C H E S T E R
Harrison
Yorktown
New Rochelle
61
Log on to msgvarsity.com/magpics
and submit your photo today!
Briarcliff
Tuckahoe
Scarsdale
Ossining
White Plains Salesian
John Jay-Cross River
63
Log on to msgvarsity.com/magpics
and submit your photo today!
Monroe-Woodbury
Albertus Magnus
Hudson Valley Track
Pearl River
Nyack
64
Photo Central
N E W Y O R K C I T Y
All Hallows
Fordham Prep
New York City All-Stars
Cardinal Hayes
Mount St. Ursula
65
Log on to msgvarsity.com/magpics
and submit your photo today!
Mount St. Michael
Riverdale
66
A Quick Column
Twenty-three years. Thousands
of players. And they tell me here
at MSG Varsity that they want me
to narrow the list of my all-time favorite
tri-state football players down to 10?
I’ll need security at games this year….
nah, I can handle it.
There are those who will argue with my
picks and some who will agree. So let’s
get going. The criteria? Players had to be
a performer on both sides of the ball at
least for some point of their high school
career. And let me be clear, we’re talk-
ing high school here and NOT what they
might have done after graduation at the
college level, or beyond.
When you talk about the Tri-State Top
10 of all-time, it’s a special fraternity.
A big question I have is, can Old Tap-
pan’s Devin Fuller stake his claim on the
list? More about him later.
So here is my Top 10:
Brian Toal RB/LB
Don Bosco, Class of 2004
In September of 2000, I watched as Don Bosco
freshman Brian Toal blocked a punt, scooped it
up and scored a touchdown. The rest was his-
tory. Bosco would beat Ridgewood that night
and many wins would follow, including two
state titles over the next four seasons. Toal and
his dad, Greg—the head coach—had laid the
foundation atop the hill that has continued to
grow the last seven seasons.
The stat line for the All-American was good,
but not overwhelming. You know what, 32
touchdowns was pretty special. So were 106
tackles from his linebacker spot. But his great-
est skill was to make the other 10 players on
the field even better. Toal—son of a coach,
heck of a player—is the best I’ve ever seen.
Will Hill QB/S
St. Peter’s Prep, Class of 2008
Be it from his QB spot, safety, or on specials,
“The Thrill” was always just a touch away
from putting it in the end zone. The three-year
varsity starter graduated from the Jersey City
school as an All-American and is still the last
quarterback in New Jersey to beat Don Bosco.
Tyrell Dortch RB/DB
Hoboken, Class of 2000
The Redwings have produced many a great
player, but “TD” earns top billing in my eyes.
A threat from both sides, I still remember his
final high school game like it was played yes-
terday. It was December, 1999, versus Wayne
Hills in the state final at Giants Stadium.
Dortch scored all four touchdowns, rushed for
289 yards as Hoboken won, 27-7.
Brian Cushing RB/S
Bergen Catholic, Class of 2005
“Cush” would be a bit higher on the list if he
didn’t miss two and a half games due to injury.
His five-touchdown, all-purpose performance
vs. St. Joes in his senior year is still the best
individual show I have seen on a high school
football field. Four weeks later, his two TDs
and three sacks at Giants Stadium led Bergen
Catholic to the state title. It’s still called the
“Cushing Game” which, by the way, is the last
time the Crusaders beat Bosco.
Ray Rice RB/DB
New Rochelle, Class of 2005
I still like to tell people had Ray played in Jer-
sey, he would have been one of the most heav-
ily recruited players in America. New Ro’s glad
he stayed on their side of the Hudson. He never
ran for more than 200 yards in a game because
he and his teammates had most games won
by the half. As good as he was on offense, I
always thought he was better on defense.
Stephon Gregory
Curtis, Class of 2001
Looked like Clark Kent, but played like Super-
man. No player in this Top 10 did more for his
team than this guy. He lined up all over the
field and had more than 3,000 yards of total of-
fense his senior year leading the Warriors to
back-to-back PSAL titles in 1998 and 1999.
Knowshon Moreno RB/CB
Middletown South, Class of 2006
Played just enough “D” to make this list, but
buttered his bread on offense. New Jersey’s
all-time leading scorer with 782 points had
6,268 total yards of rushing—second best in
Garden State history. His 36-0 record in his fi-
nal three years is stuff of legend.
John Sullivan C/NG
Greenwich, Class of 2003
Hall of Famer Steve Young is considered the
best player in Greenwich history. I never saw
Steve play in person, but I did cover his young-
er brothers, Tommy and Jimmy, and they were
terrific. But “Big John” is the best in my eyes.
An incredibly athletic 6-foot-4, 282 pounds,
Sullivan owned both lines of scrimmage dur-
ing his All-American career.
Greg Olsen TE/DE
Wayne Hills, Class of 2003
You could tell from Day One the coach’s kid was
special. He just made it look so easy for three
years, scoring 27 touchdowns at tight end. In
his junior and senior seasons, he played some
defensive end and could have been a major col-
lege recruit at that spot. The All-American’s fi-
nal high school game resulted in a state title
for his pop and the Patriots.
???
Wayne Hills won yet another state
title last year, handing Old Tappan and Fuller
a heartbreaking loss in the closing seconds
at Giants Stadium. Right now, that is the only
thing missing from Fuller’s incredible three-
year run. And more important than his All-
American talents, Fuller (QB/DB) is an even
a better kid. Good luck, No. 7, getting into the
Top 10. It’s there for the taking.
By Mike Quick
@Quick60
My picks for the best-ever!
Can Devin Fuller join the tri-state high school Top 10?
RB/QB/
WR/DB
Be sure to tune into ‘A Quick 60’ every Tuesday night this fall to talk tri-state high school football!
You can call in at 516-224-6100, email at [email protected], or Tweet Mike at @Quick60
Old Tappan’s
Devin Fuller
Photo by
Mike Stobe
0heck aut hews 12's mab||e s|te, enab|ed far smartphanes and ather mab||e dev|ces! watch v|dea af tap star|es, get the |atest
weather farecasts, even v|ew ||ve traff|c |mages fram mare than 500 cameras! lt's fast and easy!
And best af a||, |t's free* ta 0ab|ev|s|an custamers!
0a ta www.news12taga.cam an yaur mab||e dev|ce!
|Phane users can v|s|t the App 5tare ta dawn|aad the FBEE hews 12 app!
*data usage charges may apply
Don’t Get Tackled
by Traffic on the
Way to the Game!
Don’t Get Tackled
by Traffic on the
Way to the Game!
When our kids take the field, a whole community takes it with them.
It’s why we’re committed to highlighting local high school students
and their communities in sports, the classroom and the arts.
/O TV Channe/s°14°&°614°
cc
°°°MSGVars/Iv.com