Liberty Division............................... Pages

HEAD COACH: Paul Covine, 2nd season

CAREER RECORD: 6-4 ASSISTANT COACHES:

Kevin Smith (Offensive Coordinator/QB); Andrew Petruzzi (RB/Director of Football Operations); Pat Moran (DB/Special Teams Coordinator); Mike Burke (TE/FB/DL); Mike Leone (OL); Greg Hyslop (WR); Wayne Jackson; Mark McCoy (Head Freshmen Coach); Joe Treen (Freshmen asst.); Dan Dugan (Freshmen); Brian Fitzpatrick (Head Middle School Coach); Dereck Rizzo (Middle School asst.); Rob Jergenson (Middle School asst.) Lauren Tribley (Athletic Trainer). Team Record Last Five Years:

2021: 6-4 2020: 5-3 2019: 5-4 2018: 7-3 2017: 5-5

Offense: Spread Defense: 3-4

Player To Watch:

JoJo Bivins, Sr., RB Bivins had an excellent junior season by rushing for 1,356 yards and 21 touchdowns to finish eighth in the Shore in rushing and fifth in the conference in total points. He is the horse the Bengals will try to ride to a division title and another playoff appearance. Player Under the Radar:

Shikeith Gordon, Sr., WR/DB Gordon, who has an FCS scholarship offer from Marist, tied for the team lead with two interceptions last season and enters this year as the Bengals' No. 1 wide receiver and No. 1 cornerback. Impact Newcomers:

Matthieu Worthy, Jr., QB & Jake Harrashinki, Jr., QB There's an open competition to be Barnegat's starting quarterback and Worthy and Harrashinki have been battling it out throughout the offseason. Given the obvious importance of the position, the winner will get the opportunity to make a significant impact. Rivalry Game:

Sept. 9 vs. Pinelands The traditional Class B South and southern Ocean County rivals will square off in Little Egg Harbor during Week 2.

Projected Offensive Starters:

(RS=returning starter, 3RS=3rd-year returning starter) Returning Starters: 5

QB: MATTHIEU WORTHY, JR. OR JAKE HARRASHINKI, JR. RB: JOJO BIVINS, SR., RS FB: MAX GIACCONE, SR., RS WR: SHIKEITH GORDON, SR., RS; ALAN NELSON, SR. TE: COLE TODDINGS, SO., RS LT: SEAN BARANOWSKI, JR. LG: CHRIS MARRIOT, SR. C: ANTHONY COSTELLO, JR. RG: NICK PORCELLI, JR., RS RT: GIANNI ANTONELLI, JR.

By: Bob Badders

SSN Managing Editor

BUILDING ON SUCCESS

Even though the transition to a new coach for the first time in program history went about as smooth as possible, there were still questions surrounding Barnegat entering the first year under head coach Paul Covine.

THURSDAY 9/1 @FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP 6:30PM FRIDAY 9/9 PINELANDS 7PM FRIDAY 9/16 JACKSON LIBERTY 7PM FRIDAY 9/23 @TOMS RIVER EAST 7PM FRIDAY 9/30 @ASBURY PARK 7PM FRIDAY 10/7 MANCHESTER 7PM FRIDAY 10/14 POINT BORO 7PM FRIDAY 10/21 @MATAWAN 7PM

Those questions were answered positively in 2021 as the Bengals went 6-4 and qualified for the NJSIAA playoffs. Barnegat has been one of the most consistent programs in the Shore Conference ever since Rob Davis shepherded the program to the varsity level nearly 20 years ago, and that did not change with Covine taking the helm. Now, Barnegat is looking to build off that success and make a run at a division title and another postseason berth.

The Bengals' multiple spread offense returns five starters, including one of the Shore Conference's top running backs in senior JoJo Bivins. As a junior, Bivins had a breakout season by rushing for 1,356 yards and 21 touchdowns to finish eighth in the Shore in rushing and fifth in total points with 126. He will be the focal point of the offense, but of course, it takes more than one cylinder to make an engine run.

Experience is scattered throughout the starting offensive lineup beginning with Bivins and senior fullback Max Giaccone in the backfield. Senior wide receiver Shikeith Gordon is also a returning starter, as is sophomore Cole Toddings, who started at tight end as a freshman. The quarterback position remains undecided at this point of training camp with a pair of juniors, Matthieu Worthy and Jake Harrashinski, battling it out for the starting job.

The offensive line will be breaking in four new starters. The lone returner is junior right guard Nick Porcelli. The rest of the projected starters are junior Sean Baronowski at left tackle, senior Chris Marriot at left guard, junior Anthony Costello at center, and junior Gianni Antonelli at right tackle.

The strength of Barnegat's 3-4 defense is in the middle where three of four linebackers are returning starters. Senior inside linebacker Connor Armstrong is the leader of the unit and will be joined by Giaccone inside and Toddings outside as returning starters. Senior Seth Freiwald is the other outside linebacker and returns after seeing playing time last season. The down linemen are seniors Rodney Burke and Connor Pappas at defensive end and Marriot at nose tackle. Three of four starters return in the secondary. Sophomore Myquan Rush started as a freshman and is back at strong safety while (L-R) SHIKEITH GORDON (4), JOJO BIVINS (5), MAX GIACCONE (36) & C ONNOR ARMSTRONG (31) senior Kyle Eslinger is the returning starter at free safety. Gordon is the starter at one of the cornerback spots and senior Alan Nelson is in line to start on the opposite side. Gordon tied for the team lead with two interceptions last season. On special teams, Eslinger returns as the starting kicker while the punter spot has yet to be cemented. Last season, Barnegat finished fourth in the Patriot Division behind Point Boro, Shore, and Asbury Park and in front of Manchester and Jackson Liberty. After the annual realignment, the Bengals are now in the Liberty Division with traditional Class B South rivals Manchester, Jackson Liberty, and Pinelands, plus Toms River East and Matawan. It should be a competitive division and, on paper, one that the Bengals appear favored to win.

Projected Defensive Starters:

Returning Starters: 6

DE: RODNEY BURKE, SR. NT: CHRIS MARRIOT, SR. DE: CONNOR PAPPAS, SR. OLB: COLE TODDINGS, SO., RS ILB: CONNOR ARMSTRONG, SR., RS ILB: MAX GIACCONE, SR., RS OLB: SETH FREIWALD, SR. CB: SHIKEITH GORDON, SR., RS CB: ALAN NELSON, SR. SS: MYQUAN RUSH, SO., RS FS: KYLE ESLINGER, SR., RS

Projected Special Team Starters:

K: KYLE ESLINGER, SR., RS P: TBD LONG SNAPPER: COLE TODDINGS, SO., RS HOLDER: SHIKEITH GORDON, SR.

HEAD COACH: Jim Sharples, 10th season

CAREER RECORD: 25-59 ASSISTANT COACHES:

Brian Ballantine (DC/ILB); Dan Ballantine (DB); Matt Schmidt (OL/Special Teams Coordinator); Jimmy Lopez (OLB/Sub Varsity Coordinator); Matt Spader (Pass Game Coordinator/QB/WR); Ryan Azzolini (DT); Alex Menzies (RB/Sub Varsity Assistant); Chris Grande (Athletic Trainer)

Team Record Last Five Years:

2021: 2-8 2020: 1-4 2019: 2-7 2018: 3-7 2017: 3-7

Offense: Multiple Pro Defense: 4-4

PlayerS To Watch:

Ryan Kinsman, Sr., QB & Dennis Caswell, So., QB There's a new offensive system being run by Sharples with one, possibly two new quarterbacks taking snaps. "Our quarterback situation is interesting. One of those freshmen that lettered -- Dennis Caswell -- it was pretty much determined early from freshman year to now that he's probably going to be the guy for the next three years," Sharples said. "Out of the blue, a player who took the year off last year, Ryan Kinsman, wants to play his senior year. He played for me his freshman and sophomore year. He's a pretty good player, now he's an older kid, he's grown a bit and now he's been playing quarterback as well. I have an interesting little situation at quarterback, there's a healthy competition, and Ryan is a dynamic kind of athlete, where Dennis is more of your pocket style/big, strong-armed kid." PlayerS Under the Radar:

Joey Accordino, Jr., RB and Imere Smith, So., RB Zach Corrado will be taking a majority of the carries in the backfield for the Lions but junior Joey Accordino and sophomore Imere Smith impressed during training camp and the preseason and add some depth to the running back position.

Impact NewcomerS:

Dave Lidziev, Sr., DT & Dan Lidziev, Sr., DE There's a well-noted new look to the defense and that includes the line. Dan and Dave Lidziev are new to the varsity team and are looking to make a difference in 2022 and build on a defensive line that's been a strong point in the past for Jackson Liberty.

Rivalry Game:

Sept. 30 vs. Jackson Memorial Things always get exciting playing a crosstown rival. There are bragging rights on the line, of course, but it's also about earning some respect. Jackson Liberty is trying to prove to big brother Jackson Memorial that they're ready to roar and show just how good they are this season.

By: Vin Ebenau

SSN CONTRIBUTOR

ROARING LOUD FOR ALL TO HEAR

In the jungle, the mighty jungle the Lions are working their way through some obstacles to once again thrive in the sunshine and restore order as King of said jungle.

THURSDAY 9/1 KEANSBURG 6PM

FRIDAY 9/9 MATAWAN

7PM FRIDAY 9/16 @BARNEGAT 7PM FRIDAY 9/23 @MANCHESTER 6:30PM FRIDAY 9/30 JACKSON MEMORIAL 6PM FRIDAY 10/7 @PINELANDS 7PM FRIDAY 10/14 @POINT BEACH 7PM FRIDAY 10/21 TOMS RIVER EAST 7PM

It's been a tough stretch for the Jackson Liberty Lions over the last couple of seasons, so close to taking that next step, but just trying to find some consistency from play to play and game to game.

For Jim Sharples, who is heading into his 10th season at the helm, he's had to work overtime to put together a roster, whether that's finding depth and players to fill spots -- which this year includes finding a kicker -- or trying to implement the right offensive system to fit the team's personnel.

One of the positives heading into the 2022 campaign is that there is a good amount of seniors. "I have a nice senior class, I have a lot of talented kids, I have a lot of four-year starters," Sharples tells Shore Sports Network.

"Expectation-wise, we expect to be able to run the ball. I have a pretty solid line." There's been a shuffle in the coaching staff under Sharples as well heading into the new season with a couple of vacancies filled in by some outside help which is changing the look of the Lions heading into the 2022 season. "I did lose Jeff Schmidt, my defensive coordinator, I did lose Gerard O'Donnell, my (L-R) JOSEPH CELENTANO (3), ZACKARY CARRADO (1), BRENDAN GALLAGHER (2) & BRANDON BITTAR (75) offensive coordinator, so, we are starting pretty fresh," Sharples said. "I brought in a defensive guy and his brother, actually (Brian and Dan Ballantine) two coaches who are not Shore Conference guys, they're not really familiar with the conference, they're Staten Island guys who moved down this way, so that's a whole new thing for us on defense. I don't want to say I took over the offense, but, I have two younger coaches -- Matt Schmidt, and then another guy, Matt Spader, who's been with me. We're going to kind of collaborate to do the offense -- I'll probably be calling the plays, and we're going to separate our run and pass game." Things will look a little different for the Jackson Liberty Lions this season with players and coaches -- but sometimes, change can be a good thing if it produces the results you're been looking for on the field.

Projected Offensive Starters:

(RS=returning starter, 3RS=3rd-year returning starter)

QB: RYAN KINSMAN, SR., & DENNIS CASWELL, SO. RB: ZACH CORRADO SR., RS WR: BRENDAN GALLAGHER JR. WR: CONNOR HILLS, SR. TE: CORZEEK PALMS, SO. LT: DONOVAN LOUIS-JACQUES, SO. LG: ANTHONY GEORGIANO JR. C: BRANDON BITTAR SR., RS RG: THEO WOJO-GRASSO, SR. RT: BRENNAN COGER, SO.

Projected Defensive Starters:

DE: DONOVAN LOUIS-JACQUES, SO. DT: DAVE LIDZIEV, SR. DT: BRANDON BITTAR SR. DE: DAN LIDZIEV, SR. OLB: CORZEEK PALMS, SO. ILB: THEO WOJO-GRASSO, SR. OLB: BRENNAN COGER, SO. CB: JOEY ACCORDINO, JR. CB: JOEY CELENTANO, SR. SS: BRENDAN GALLAGHER SR. FS: RYAN KINSMAN, SR.

Projected Special Team Starters:

K: TBD P: CONNOR HILLS, SR.

HEAD COACH: Tommy Farrell, 1st season

CAREER RECORD: 0-0 ASSISTANT COACHES:

Jeff Brown (Run Game Coordinator/OL); Gerard O’Donnell (Pass Game Coordinator/QB); Dimitrius Smith (DL); Bob Mussari (RB/ILB); Alex Lunn (WR/DB); Chris Blaine (TE/OLB); Alex Zulewski (Head Freshman Coach); Corey Lavin (Volunteer); Skip Cocci (Volunteer); Tiffany Rigati (Athletic Trainer)

Team Record Last Five Years:

2021: 3-7 2020: 5-3 2019: 2-8 2018: 5-5 2017: 3-7

Offense: Power Spread Defense: 4-2

Player To Watch:

Josh Love, Sr., RB/SS Love will be a man on the move this season and will be counted on to provide big play ability as a running back and, despite being just 5-foot-6 and 150 pounds, physical play at the strong safety position. Farrell says the senior is shifty with a high motor and great vision and opponents should expect much Love this season.

Impact Newcomer:

MJ Goins, So., WR/RB Goins has big shoes to fill with the graduation of Brown. While he plays a different position (slot) he will need to contribute to both the passing and running game and has loads of potential. Described as speedy, shifty, and smart; which is a good place to start.

Top Position Groups:

Offensive & Defensive Lines Loaded with players who started at some point last season, the group is led by two-way starters Calvin Spicer, Nahki Davis, and Gavin Herr. Tito Sobayo is another two-way player along with Matthias Payton. Promising sophomore Martin Kozikowski figures to be in the mix on both sides of the ball.

RIVALRY GAME:

Sept. 3 at Lakewood Yes, it’s the season opener, and yes it's Farrell’s debut as head coach, but there is a lot on the line for both teams. There is a natural rivalry here as Manchester students went to Lakewood before establishing their own school. The coaches are also familiar with one another and since both teams will likely be searching for wins on their schedule this is one that is up for grabs. If the Hawks can prevail it will help the new coach establish a winning mentality for his program.

By: kevin Williamss

SSN Director

FARRELL’S FLOCK

Following a season-opening win over Monmouth Regional, Manchester dropped seven of their next eight games in what was a disappointing season following a rare winning record in 2020.

SATURDAY 9/3 @LAKEWOOD FRIDAY 9/9 @TOMS RIVER EAST FRIDAY 9/16 MATAWAN 6:30PM

FRIDAY 9/23 JACKSON LIBERTY 6:30PM FRIDAY 9/30 MANASQUAN 6:30PM FRIDAY 10/7 @BARNEGAT 7PM FRIDAY 10/14 FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP 6:30PM FRIDAY 10/21 @PINELANDS 7PM

(L-R) TITO S OBAYO (57), NAHKI DAVIS (65), ELI CASALAN (8), T YRONE BENJAMIN (6) & CALVIN SPICER (56)

Brian Wilkinson stepped down after two seasons as the head coach and this spring was replaced by Tommy Farrell, who at age 27 is one of the youngest coaches in New Jersey. What he lacks in experience he makes up for in enthusiasm and Farrell wants to grow with the program in the town he now calls home. It will not be easy as the Hawks have had only two non-losing seasons since 2011 and have never won an NJSIAA Playoff game.

Lost to graduation were quarterback Savon Meyers and receiver D’Maari Brown, who were the program's most dynamic players, but a host of starters and others who saw playing time return. Replacing Meyers will not be easy but Manchester has three players listed on the depth chart with 6’1 sophomore Aidan Lunn showing a lot of promise during the preseason. Pass game coordinator and former Hawks head coach Gerard O’Donnell also has junior Joe Horowitz and senior Eli Casalan, a converted running back, in the mix to lead their power spread offense.

Whoever gets the starting nod will be handing off to junior Josh Love, a three-year starter with great vision and the ability to make big plays. Kasai Pharmes, a junior, will also see action in the backfield and when the Hawks line up using a fullback it will be sophomore Dante Mortellite or junior Gio Tripodi. While Brown and his Shore Conference-leading 62 receptions are gone Manchester is high on sophomore slot receiver MJ Goins and at wide receiver there is a three-year starter in senior Tyrone Benjamin (11 receptions, 2 TD’s) and junior Nik Walters, who also saw action in 2021. Sophomore Kevin Harrell and junior Jaden Figueroa round out the group. Juniors Manny Swain and Matthias Payton return to handle the tight end chores.

The offensive line figures to be one of the strengths of the team with four starters back in senior center Calvin Spicer, guards Nahki Davis (295-lb senior) and Gavin Herr (285-lb junior), and senior tackle Tito

Sobayo (280lbs). Junior Cooper Erli (6’4, 230) rounds out the expected starters with sophomores Jaiden Barber, Martin

Kozikowski, and Spencer Placek along with Ryan Dunckley and Travis Jackson bidding for playing time.

The defense was a sore spot last season as they gave up nearly 27

The offensive line figures to be one of the strengths of the team with four starters back in senior center Calvin Spicer, guards Nahki Davis (295-lb senior) and Gavin Herr (285-lb junior), and senior tackle Tito Sobayo (280lbs). Junior Cooper Erli (6’4, 230) rounds out the expected starters with sophomores Jaiden Barber, Martin Kozikowski, and Spencer Placek along with Ryan Dunckley and Travis Jackson bidding for playing time.

The defense was a sore spot last season as they gave up nearly 27 points per game with Farrell to focus on this side of the ball. There is loads of experience here, especially up front where the four linemen all started or saw considerable action last fall. Herr and Davis should handle the inside in the 4-2 alignment with Spicer and Payton lining up outside. Sobayo, Martin Kozikowski, Walters, and junior Dillon Colon will also get their share of playing time. Swain and Tripodi return at linebacker along with Dante Mortellite while Pharmes and junior Chris Joyner are among those battling for time on the field. Benjamin (cornerback) and Love (safety) are both three-year starters who should anchor the defensive backfield along with Casalan and Goins while sophomores Kevin Harrell and Dom Rekus along with Figueroa will be in the mix as well.

Projected Offensive Starters:

(RS=returning starter, 3RS=3rd-year returning starter)

QB: IDAN LUNN, SO.; JOE HOROWITZ, JR.; ELI CASALAN, SR. RB: JOSH LOVE, JR., 3RS; MJ GOINS, SO.; KASAI PHARMES, JR. FB: DANTE MORTELLITE, SO.; GIO TRIPODI, JR. WR: TYRONE BENJAMIN, SR., 3RS; NIK WALTERS, JR., RS; KEVIN HARRELL, SO.; JADEN FIGUEROA, JR. TE: MANNY SWAIN, JR., RS; MATTHIAS PAYTON, JR., RS; DILLON COLON, JR. LT: COOPER ERLI, JR.; JAIDEN BARBER, SO. LG: NAHKI DAVIS, SR., RS; MARTIN KOZIKOWSKI, SO. C: CALVIN SPICER, SR., RS; SPENCER PLACEK, SO. RG: GAVIN HERR, JR., RS; RYAN DUNCKLEY, MASON DAVIS RT: TITO SOBAYO, SR., RS; TRAVIS JACKSON, JR.

Projected Defensive Starters:

Returning Starters: 6

DE: CALVIN SPICER, SR., RS; DILLON COLON, JR.; RYAN DUNCKLEY DT: GAVIN HERR, JR., RS; TITO SOBAYO, SR., RS; JAIDEN BARBER, SO. DT: NAHKI DAVIS, SR., RS; MARTIN KOZIKOWSKI, SO.; COOPER ERLI, JR. DE: MATTHIAS PAYTON, JR., RS; NIK WATERS, JR.; MASON DAVIS, SO. OLB: MANNY SWAIN, JR., RS ILB: DANTE MORTELLITE, SO.; CHRIS JOYNER, JR.; ANTHONY D’ANTONIO, SO. ILB: GIO TRIPODI, JR., RS; KASAI PHARMES, JR.; PAT MCKAY, JR. CB: TYRONE BENJAMIN, SR., 3RS; DOM REKUS, SO. CB: ELI CASALAN, SR.; KEVIN HARRELL, SO. SS: JOSH LOVE, JR., 3RS FS: MJ GOINS, SO.; JADEN FIGUEROA, JR.

Projected Special Team Starters:

K/P: JOE HOROWITZ, JR.

FOR ADVERTISING INFORMATION

Contact: Steven Meyer 732-233-4460 steve.meyer@townsquaremedia.com

HEAD COACH: Jay Graber, 4th season

CAREER RECORD: 72-48 ASSISTANT COACHES:

Matt Walsh (Def. Coordinator/DB), Jake Weber (DL/OL), Sam Turner (OL/DL), Rob Cordasco (OL/TE/FB/Freshman), Nick Hartigan (Special Teams/RB/Freshman), Bob Wietecha (WR/DB), Joe Martucci (RB/LB), Shawn Ramcheran (DB), Mark Kawka (RB/Freshman), Matt Goetz (Athletic Trainer)

Team Record Last Five Years:

2021: 4-6 2020: 2-4 2019: 5-4 2018: 1-8 2017: 2-8

Offense: Multiple Defense: Multiple

Player To Watch:

Joey Bodin, Sr., WR/OLB Bodin is both a vocal leader in the huddle and on the field while also bringing some proven production back to the field for the Huskies. Bodin is heading into his third year as a starter and will be one of the top targets in the passing game. On the other side of the ball, he returns at outside linebacker after finishing second on the Matawan in tackles in 2022 with 93, trailing only Onuoha. Bodin is one of nine returning starters on the defensive side of the ball. Player Under the Radar:

Colin Palumbo, So., RB/DB Palumbo got a chance to play as a freshman and he will look to carry that experience over to a more prominent role this season. The sophomore will move into the starting running back role and reprise his role in the defensive backfield at safety with the intention of providing Matawan with a capable playmaker for an offense that will be in search for them early in the year. Top Position Groups:

Offensive/Defensive Line With returning starters across the line on both sides, Matawan will have plenty of experience, as well as depth behind the starting group. Seniors Zion Spence and Nik Winzer are the leaders on both sides on the ball, with Spencer returning for his fourth year as a starter on the line and Winzer committed to Columbia and serving as one of the prominent voices in the huddle and in the locker room. The two seniors will share the left side of the offensive line – Winzer at tackle and Spence at guard.

Big Shoes to Fill:

Am’ir Martinez, de Scott So., & Michael DiPietro (Jr.), QB The competition to replace Buonagura under center will be ongoing until opening night vs. Raritan, but Graber is confident both Martinez de Scott and DiPietro are on track to handle the job – particularly with all the support either will have around them.

Rivalry Game:

Sept. 30 at Holmdel Over the last several years, Holmdel has passed Matawan in the Shore Conference Group III hierarchy, so with a midseason clash in Holmdel on tap, playoff positioning could be on the line when the two neighboring schools meet. From Matawan’s side, the game is likely to be a pivotal one and could potentially represent the zenith of a strong start to the season. With a run of smaller programs – Raritan, Jackson Liberty, Manchester and Pinelands – during the first four weeks, Matawan will have a chance for a win in each of the first five weeks before back-to-back games vs. Toms River East and Middletown South.

By: Matt Manley

SSN Senior Editor

BIG DOGS, BIG QUESTIONS

With less than two weeks until his team’s season-opening game against Raritan, Matawan coach Jay Graber still was not sure – or at least not sure enough to reveal – who his starting quarterback for Week 1 would be.

THURSDAY 9/1 RARITAN 7PM FRIDAY 9/9 @JACKSON LIBERTY 7PM FRIDAY 9/16 @MANCHESTER 6:30PM THURSDAY 9/22 PINELANDS 7PM FRIDAY 9/30 @HOLMDEL 7PM SATURDAY 10/8 TOMS RIVER EAST 12PM FRIDAY 10/14 @MIDDLETOWN SOUTH 7PM FRIDAY 10/21 BARNEGAT 7PM

(L-R) NIK WINZER (76), JOEY B ODIN (5), ZION SPENCE (77) & CAMERON C OOPER (11)

With Dennis Buonagura graduating following three years as the starter and physical running back David Onuoha also graduating, there is a void in playmaking both under center and in the backfield th.

Graber, however, is taking it in stride. Not only is he encouraged by what he has seen from his prospective quarterbacks, but he knows that at just about every other spot on the field, he has experience and even some depth where there was none over the course of his first three seasons with the Huskies.

“This year, we have a little bit more depth on the line,” Graber said. “We have eight or nine guys competing for starting jobs and they are coming in every day and battling for their spot. They all want to play on Friday night. Within our program right now, that competition is great and it’s bringing out the best in all of our lineman and our players.”

The schedule could also make a major difference this season. Last year, Matawan had five games against Group IV and V programs and went 1-4 in those matchups. This season, the Huskies have two scheduled games against Group IV schools (Middletown South and Toms River East) and none against Group V. The only team on its schedule in 2022 that was also on the 2021 schedule is Toms River East and Matawan beat the Raiders a year ago.

Heading into the 2022 campaign, Matawan is loaded up on experience on both lines, in the wide receiver group and throughout the defense. Couple that with a schedule that does not include so many Group V and Group IV opponents – which raised the degree of difficulty for a team that was still learning in the trenches while Buonagura and Onuoha did their thing – and the Huskies have a chance to celebrate more wins this fall.

“The kids are working hard,” Graber said. “They are doing everything they can every day to give themselves a good opportunity for success and we’re excited for the chances that they have.”

Projected Offensive Starters:

(RS=returning starter, 3RS=3rd-year returning starter) Returning Starters: 8

QB: AM’IR MARTINEZ DE SCOTT, SO.; MICHAEL DIPIETRO, JR. RB: COLIN PALUMBO, SO.; WELMAN CROOMS, FR. WR: JOEY BODIN, SR. 3RS; KYESHAUN SYLVESTER, JR. WR: CAMERON COOPER, JR. RS; WELMAN CROOMS, FR. WR: BRIAN CHARLES GAGNERON, JR. RS; JAYDEN PERCODANI, JR. RS TE/FB: MORGAN BLAKE GAGNE, SO.; AIDAN ANTHONY, JR.; GAVIN PATINO, SR.; CHRIS BURSETH, JR.; LANCE SANTOS, SR.; THOMAS BECKER, JR. LT: NIKOLAUS WINZER, SR. 3RS LG: ZION SPENCE, SR. 4RS C: JORDAN REAMER, JR. RS; AIDAN KAUFFMAN, SO. RG: A.J. REAMER, SR. RS; CHRIS ZAZULA, JR. RT: JAYDEN ELIJAH, SO. RS; RYDER SILVERS, SR. 6-0

Projected Defensive Starters:

Returning Starters: 9

DE: NIKOLAUS WINZER, SR. 3RS DT: ZION SPENCE, SR. 4RS DT: JORDAN REAMER, JR. RS; A.J. REAMER, SR. DE: LANCE SANTOS, SR. RS; JAYDEN ELIJAH, SO. OLB: CHRIS BURSETH, JR.; AIDAN ANTHONY, JR. ILB: MORGAN BLAKE GAGNERON, SO. RS; AIDAN KAUFFMAN, SO. OLB: JOEY BODIN, SR. 3RS; DAMION STATHUM, SR.; SEIF WAHBY, SR. DB: CAMERON COOPER, JR. RS; TAHIR ALLI, SO. DB: KYESHAUN SYLVESTER, JR. RS; AM’IR MARTINEZ DE SCOTT, SO. DB: COLIN PALUMBO, SO., RS; WELMAN CROOMS, FR. DB: BRIAN CHARLES GAGNERON, JR.; JAYDEN PERCODANI, JR.

SR. JOEY B ODIN

Projected Special Team Starters:

K/P: JAKE ZIBBELL, SR. RS

HEAD COACH: John Tierney, 1ST season

CAREER RECORD: 0-0 ASSISTANT COACHES:

Joe Adelizzi (Defensive Coordinator/LB); Scott Peterka (OL); Mike Keller (QB); Vinny LoVerde (DB/Special Teams); Gennaro Balletta (WR); George Martian (DL); Vemba Bukula (RB); Dan O'Reilly (Head Freshmen); Marshall Witmer (FR); T.J. Maino (FR); Drew Steelman (Middle School Head Coach); Ryan Anderson (Middle School Asst.); Stacy Childs (athletic trainer) Team Record Last Five Years:

2021: 4-5 2020: 2-6 2019: 1-8 2018: 4-5 2017: 2-8

Offense: Multiple I Defense: 4-3

Player To Watch:

Ryan Allen, QB, Sr.

It's a new offensive system under a new head coach for the returning starter at quarterback for the Wildcats this season. Ryan Allen has an impactful and big offensive line in front of him and it allows him to help elevate the offense around him. Coach Tierney is looking to Allen to lead the charge again this season. "He's been a sponge and studying -- he and our backup quarterback (Ty Kline) have the two most times behind the huddle, they're really studying the offense, you have to know the offense, you have to know all the terminology," Tierney said. "When Ryan plays loose -- he's really, really good."

PlayerS Under the Radar:

Connor Bonicky, CB, Sr.; Mike Frawley, CB, Jr.; Liam Villinger, Jr. WR/DB; Steve Bordan, Sr., WR/DB The defense for Pinelands is the top unit heading into the season and while highlighted by the front seven, there's a secondary who can certainly play big in critical moments. Look to these four players to take that next step and final step in helping keep opponents' offenses out of the end zone this season. "Our secondary is very senior driven, it's probably our most experienced group, starting with Connor Bonicky (D3 recruit) and Mike Frawley at corner and then our two safeties, Steve Borden and Liam Villinger," Tierney said.

Impact NewcomerS:

Jaimin Parkinson, RB, So.; & Eric Kobilnyk, Fr., RB/LB

There is a lot of depth at the running back position but what stands out most is the athleticism. The sophomore Parkinson and the freshman Kobilnyk are going to get a lot of looks and could be key cogs in the offense for the next few seasons.

By: Vin Ebenau

SSN CONTRIBUTOR

NEW CAT LOOKS TO END PLAYOFF DROUGHT

It's been a long, long, long roam in the wilderness for the Pinelands Wildcats longing for 18 years since their last playoff appearance

THURSDAY 9/1 POINT BEACH

7PM FRIDAY 9/9 @BARNEGAT 7PM FRIDAY 9/16 @TOMS RIVER EAST 7PM THURSDAY 9/22 @MATAWAN 7PM FRIDAY 9/30 LAKEWOOD 7PM FRIDAY 10/7 JACKSON LIBERTY 7PM SATURDAY 10/15 @MONMOUTH 1PM FRIDAY 10/21 MANCHESTER 7PM

(L-R) MIKE HALL (4), ANTHONY RUCCI (7), RYAN ALLEN (12), MEKHI HALL (5) & JACK O’BRIEN (1)

A familiar Shore Conference face is now taking the reins to lead the Wildcats in 2022, John Tierney, who had served as an assistant coach at Lacey High School under the legendary Lou Vircillo before ending up at back Pinelands where he is a teacher, has earned the bump up to head coach.

It's been an open and welcomed change for the players who've embraced Tierney as their new leader. "Number one is just the players' reception to me being named (head) coach, and welcoming in the new coach, especially from the seniors' point of view," Tierney tells Shore Sports Network. "A lot of times, when seniors get new coaches, they're just kind of like, 'oh, this guy, he may not play me, he may look to younger players because it's a building process, but the seniors have been absolutely awesome. They definitely are leaders of the team, and leaders in the program, so that's one thing that's really stood out to me so far."

That bond is a key to the success of the program this season, as, in part, it will allow open growth and development of the underclassmen, many of whom played for Tierney as he worked at the middle school and freshmen levels in recent seasons.

"It's kind of weird because I was with this sophomore class when they came through in seventh grade, so I coached them in seventh and eighth grade and then I coached them their freshmen year, so I know them very well," Tierney said. "I know the juniors pretty well because I coached them when they were in eighth grade. I never coached these seniors so it's been a little process in getting to know each other, but it's going really, really well."

It'll be the team chemistry and the execution of plays on both sides of the ball that'll spark something special out of the 2022 season for the Wildcats.

Pinelands Continued on Page 95

HEAD COACH: Kyle Sandberg, 7th season

CAREER RECORD: 18-38 ASSISTANT COACHES:

Joe Arminio Jr. (LB); Andrew Bilodeau (RB); Dan Cicala (DC); Tony Durkin (OL); Frank Giannetti (DL); Matt Hughes (Head Freshmen Coach); Steve Petrosino (WR); Dylan Rainieri (Assistant Freshman Coach); Kristen Dilloian (Athletic Trainer)

Team Record Last Five Years:

2021: 1-9 2020: 3-5 2019: 9-2 2018: 3-6 2017: 2-8

Offense: 2-Back Pistol Defense: Multiple

Players To Watch:

Joe Rome, Sr., OL; Ryan Ushock, Sr., DL; & Derek Weltman, Sr., OL. These linemen will be the anchors, and catalysts of the Raiders' offensive and defensive lines and will be key players in making things happen for Toms River East this season running the ball and allowing the passing game to open up. "Joe Rome, first year last year, he's bought in since he's joined. He's outstanding, he's physical," Sandberg said. "I have two other linemen that are going to be three-year letter winners, ideally, in Ryan Ushock and Derek Weltman. They played as sophomores and to see them grow the past couple of years, we're excited."

Player Under the Radar:

Joe Scala, Sr., DB This is a senior you're going to want to keep an eye on due to his rising skill set. His intangibles have also shown that he's resilient and capable of overcoming some odds. "He's a swiss army knife, he's a jack of all trades in a way. He can do a lot for us but his leadership has evolved," Sandberg said. "He's had a couple of things this year that didn't go his way but he is responding in a positive way. That's something you look for as a coach in a leader, how do you handle adversity."

Impact Newcomer:

Nevin Hart, Jr., WR Sandberg has a lot of seniors on this team but also a good amount of newcomers and underclassmen, especially at the skill positions. One such player you can look at bursting onto the scene at the varsity level this season is Nevin Hart. "One of the most intelligent football players I've ever met, he's got to find a way to use his knowledge and his abilities to help his team and we're excited about that," Sandberg said.

By: Vin Ebenau

SSN CONTRIBUTOR

SAVAGES, MONSTERS, & DOGS

It's been a tough couple of years for Toms River High School East after riding a high wave in 2019 when they finished 9-2 and made a playoff run, but they're now looking to bust through the tide to friendlier waters -- and results.

THURSDAY 9/1 @TOMS RIVER SOUTH 6PM FRIDAY 9/9 MANCHESTER 6PM FRIDAY 9/16 PINELANDS 6PM FRIDAY 9/23 BARNEGAT 6:30PM FRIDAY 9/30 @POINT BORO 7PM SATURDAY 10/8 @MATAWAN 12PM FRIDAY 10/14 TOMS RIVER NORTH 6PM FRIDAY 10/21 @JACKSON LIBERTY 6PM

(L-R) JOE ROME (64), AMARI PHILLIPS (10), JOE SCALA (4) & RYAN USHOLK (50)

ver the last couple of seasons, there's been a slip in the standings with the Raiders having a tough time closing out games or navigating through some tough opponents among the Shore Conference elite.

The way back to winning starts with this year's senior group -- particularly up front -- who've seen the successful 2019 season and a couple of losing seasons, as well. "We've got a lot of seniors on the line, both offensive line and defensive line, and I think that's the strength of the team," seventh-year Toms River East head coach Kyle Sandberg told Shore Sports Network. "That senior leadership on the line is what's going to anchor this team, there's no doubt about it."

There's a little more size on the offensive and defensive lines as well this season which is something the Raiders haven't had as much of in recent seasons as traditionally has been the case in the program. "We are the biggest we've been in a while, but we're still not big compared to other teams at the Shore," Sandberg said. "When you look at our line this year, both offensively and defensively, we got a few kids that are bigger and (more) physical than we've had in the past but, overall, compared to other schools, we're still one of the smaller ones."

Even with the size, it'll be up to each player at all positions to execute on the field. "Something we've tried to instill since I've been here, we're small, yes, but we're tough, we're scrappy, we're intense and we're trying to be savages out there and just run around and around, and be playmakers and dogs," Sandberg said.

One of the things Sandberg is telling his players is to go out there and get after it, but in different terms. "Intensity. I guess it's savages, monsters, and dogs, just flying around to the football, being tough, having grit. The second thing is competitiveness, be competitive," Sandberg said. "If you can be competitive if you can be tough, if you can have some grit, and be intense, a lot can happen."

SR. OL JOE ROME

Top Position Groups:

Offensive/Defensive Line A"Our line is our anchor, they're the strength," Sandberg said. The lines on both sides are indeed the top group for East going into the season with some experience to boot. They have more size this season and more reps in the system. If they execute, the Raiders will put up some points. "If our line can block and make some holes they're (running backs) going to hit it quick. If we can protect our quarterback and give our wide receivers a chance to run their routes and be open, it's going to work," Sandberg said. Rivalry Game:

Sept. 2 @ Toms River South & Oct. 14 Toms River North When you play high school football in Toms River, there are two big rivalry games you get amped up for and that's when you go head to head with your crosstown rivals no matter the record. For Toms River East, their opener is a rivalry game against Toms River South as is the second to last game of the season against Toms River North. The former provides the Raiders with an opportunity to open up with a big win and the latter could be a critical game for them to determine playoff or consolation game fate.