July 26, 2010
Sticking together
Sophomore point guard Kavon Stewart and Hudson Catholic have big goals for 2011.
By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director
JERSEY CITY – Whether it was at Paterson Catholic or on the AAU circuit with the Playaz Basketball Club, Reggie Cameron and Kavon Stewart have been practically inseparable on the court. So when it came time for the talented sophomores to find a new school after Paterson Catholic closed in May, it was no surprise to see them stay together.
Cameron and Stewart will remain teammates for the foreseeable future as they continue their high school careers at Hudson Catholic. Read More
July 10, 2010
Friars' Wilson to Temple
DE/TE Khadeem Wilson has committed at Temple (photo credit: St. Anthony football).
By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director
JERSEY CITY – St. Anthony defensive end/tight end Khadeem Wilson may be far from a finished product on the gridiron. Despite that, his recent verbal commitment to Temple University serves as a reminder of the considerable talent and potential of the senior.
“There’s a lot of work to be done, but athletically you don’t see a lot of kids who are 6’3” 240 who can run like that,” St. Anthony head coach Sean Fallon said. “He’s going to be special.” Read More
June 21, 2010
Speedin'
Zamir Thomas (left) and Rashawn Taylor competed in the 4x100 and 4x200 relay teams.
By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director
The New Jersey High School track season may be over, but the Snyder track team continued to make its mark this past weekend at the New Balance Outdoor Nationals in Greensboro, NC. Read More
June 4, 2010
Painful reminder
Senior John Armstrong had 11 kills for St. Peter's Prep yesterday.
By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director
HILLSBOROUGH – As each St. Peter’s Prep player was announced to the crowd and honored for their second place performance, the reaction for most of the recipients for their award was the same –disgust and disappointment.
One-by-one they were called up in recognition, but few could even bear to look at the certificate handed to them. Instead they were left to sit and watch opposing Southern Regional collect the state championship trophy they had wanted and had once again eluded Prep. Read More
Track: Snyder's Thomas, Prep's Glass victorious in Meet of Champions
June 3, 2010
On your mark... get set...
Najee Glass has the 10th best 400-Meter Dash time in the nation this year.
Click Here for photos from St. Peter's Prep and Snyder practices.
By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director
JERSEY CITY – Whenever Najee Glass of St. Peter’s Prep or Snyder’s Zamir Thomas is in need of added motivation, all they have to do is take a quick glance at what the other one is doing on the other side of the Lincoln Park track.
The two will once again be on the same track today, this time on the state’s biggest stage for the NJSIAA Meet of Champions in South Plainfield. Read More
June 2, 2010
One win away
Senior Kenny Walter had 10 kills and nine digs for St. Peter's Prep yesterday.
By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director
HILLSBOROUGH – Faced against a resilient Fair Lawn defense, the game plan for St. Peter’s Prep outside hitters Parker Kolodka and Kenny Walter was simple – keep attacking.
The Marauders’ dynamic outside duo did just that, combining for 25 kills as St. Peter’s Prep prevailed 25-22, 25-20 in the NJSIAA Semifinals yesterday at Hillsborough High School. Read More
May 31, 2010
Gold rush
Snyder junior Zamir Thomas took first in the 200 and 400-Meter Dash.
By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director
It was another big weekend on the track for Zamir Thomas as the Snyder junior medaled in three different events, taking gold in two of them, during this weekend’s Group II championships. Read More
May 29, 2010
Fantastic Four
Mike Blicharz (far right) and his teammates celebrate a North II championship.
Click Here for photos from Bayonne at St. Peter's Prep.
By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director
JERSEY CITY – There’s no denying that the bulls-eye is squarely on the back of St. Peter’s Prep. When you’re the top-ranked team in the state, such a target is unavoidable.
The Marauders continued to show why they are ranked number one with another dominant performance, a 25-14, 25-15 over Bayonne in the NJSIAA North II section final yesterday at The Barn. It marks the fourth-straight sectional title for St. Peter’s Prep (29-2).
Read More
May 28, 2010
Wings clipped
Hoboken's Ashley Barron slides to stop a relay throw from the outfield.
Click Here for photos from Whippany Park at Hoboken.
By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director
HOBOKEN – It’s an all-too familiar ending for the Hoboken softball team. For the third-straight season, the Red Wings’ season came to an end one win short of a section title.
Hoboken’s season ended with a thud dropping a 13-2 decision to Whippany Park in the North 2, Group I final yesterday at JFK Stadium. Read More
May 27, 2010
Still alive
Bayonne's Richie Boyle had 14 kills against Livingston.
Click Here for photos from Bayonne at Livingston.
By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director
LIVINGSTON - Just three points away from elimination, Bayonne decided they weren’t going to go down this way.
Rather than see their season come to an end, the Bees responded with their best play of the season, winning the next seven points to force a third game before completing the comeback with a stunning 16-25, 25-22, 25-21 victory over Livingston yesterday in the NJSIAA North II semifinals. Read More
May 26, 2010
No fear in these cats
Derek Strandberg overcame a leadoff triple to pick up the save for High Tech.
Click Here for photos from Dayton at High Tech Baseball.
By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director
SECAUCUS – Fearlessness and a short memory – two vital attributes required of a late-inning reliever. Yesterday, High Tech’s Derek Strandberg showed that he has both.
With the tying run on standing on third and nobody out in the seventh, Strandberg would retire the next three batters as the Lasercats defeated Dayton 4-3 in the NJSIAA North 2, Group I semifinals at Laurel Hill Park. Read More
May 25, 2010
Unstoppable Four-ce
Bayonne's Igor Pomyluyko won his second singles match in straight sets.
Click Here for photos from Bayonne vs Secaucus.
By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director
JERSEY CITY - Success and titles is nothing new for the Bayonne boys tennis team. Yesterday was no exception as six members of the squad were presented with the plaques from their victories from the Hudson County Individual Championships.
But as they posed with the honors of prior success, they knew there was more work – a fourth straight county championship, to be done. Read More
May 23, 2010
Ya Gotta Bee-lieve
Josh Ortiz (second left) is mobbed by Mike Santana and his Bayonne teammates.
Click Here for photos from Bayonne vs St. Mary's Baseball.
Click Here for photos from High Tech vs Secaucus Softball.
JERSEY CITY - For Bayonne and High Tech, yesterday was a reminder of it’s not how you start, but how you finish.
Trailing by seven runs in the top of the second, the Bees would storm back to take the lead only to find themselves down once again in the seventh inning. But Bayonne would tie to force extra innings before Josh Ortiz ended the instant classic with the game-winning hit in the eighth inning as the Bees topped St. Mary’s 12-11 to win the Hudson County Baseball Championship.
Read More. Click Here to View Photos
Earlier in the day, the Lasercats would overcome a disastrous start with 10 runs in the fifth inning. Back in the lead, High Tech’s powerful offense refused to let up as they defeated Secaucus 20-8 to win the Hudson County Softball Championship.
Read More. Click Here to View Photos
Track: Snyder's Thomas dominates in North 2, Group II Championships.
May 22, 2010
Hit therapy
Catcher Kelsey Snedeker drove in three runs in the first inning for Secaucus.
Click Here for photos from Secaucus at St. Dominic Academy.
By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director
JERSEY CITY – Coming off of a heart-breaking defeat on Thursday in the state tournament, it didn’t take the Secaucus softball team long to find an outlet to take out any lingering anger.
The Patriots quickly bounced back yesterday with two convincing victories, the nightcap an 8-2 victory of St. Dominic Academy in the semifinals of the Hudson County Tournament at Lincoln Park West. Read More
Baseball: High Tech rallies from six-run deficit to stun Secaucus.
May 21, 2010
In the past
Ashley Heredia comes in to score North Bergen's lone run of the game.
Click Here for photos from North Bergen at Montclair.
By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director
MONTCLAIR – As the North Bergen softball team walked off the field following a 2-1 loss to Montclair in the second round of the NJSIAA North 1, Group IV tournament, it was already time to put this game in the rearview mirror.
With another tournament game – this one a semifinal matchup in the Hudson County Tournament – less than 24 hours away, the Bruins have little choice but to exhibit a short memory on the diamond. For North Bergen (19-8) head coach Tom Eagleson, such a short turnaround is the perfect remedy after a tough loss. Read More
May 20, 2010
Relief effort
Danny Mirabel and St. Mary's are heading to the Hudson County Tournament final.
Click Here for photos from St. Mary's at North Bergen.
By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director
NORTH BERGEN – Pitcher Angel Paulino has been the driving force behind St. Mary’s success throughout the season. When it came time for Paulino’s teammates to help pick up the slack in the biggest game of the season, they showed they weren’t a one-man team.
Reliever Danny Mirabel came on to preserve a sixth-inning lead and 11th-seeded St. Mary’s (16-9) scored three times in the seventh to hold off North Bergen 7-4 yesterday in the semifinals of the Hudson County Tournament. Read More
May 18, 2010
Playing with a purpose
Willy Tavares is mobbed by his teammates after his game-winning single.
Click Here for photos from Memorial at Union City.
By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director
UNION CITY – As he was being mobbed by his Soaring Eagle teammates, Willy Tavares’ mind was on more than just his team.
Playing with a heavy heart just one day after the death of his grand father, Tavares delivered a walk-off RBI single in Union City’s 5-4 victory over Memorial in the first round of the NJSIAA North 1, Group IV tournament. Read More
May 16, 2010
Home away from home
Natalie Classen's three-run homer gave High Tech the lead in the second inning.
Click Here for photos from High Tech at Hoboken.
By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director
HOBOKEN – JFK Stadium may not be the home field for High Tech’s Natalie Classen, but with the success she’s had there, it’d be hard to find a place which fits her game as well.
After hitting two homers there in a game there earlier in the season, the sophomore added three more three hits yesterday including an inside-the-park homer as the Lasercats downed top-seeded Hoboken 10-4 in the quarterfinals of the Hudson County Tournament.
Read More
Baseball: North Bergen, Union City advance to HCT semifinals.
May 15, 2010
Back on top
(From left to right) Parker Kolodka, Alex Cogott and John Armstrong celebrate.
Click Here for photos from Bayonne vs St. Peter's Prep.
By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director
JERSEY CITY – St. Peter’s Prep may have won state sectional titles in each of the past three seasons. As impressive as the Marauders have been in recent years, the top prize in their own backyard – a county championship, had eluded them.
This core of Prep seniors filled one the few voids left in an already stellar resume as they defeated Bayonne 25-13, 25-16 in the championship game of the Hudson County Volleyball Tournament last night at the John J. Moore Athletics and Fitness Center on the campus of NJCU. Read More
May 14, 2010
Flight school
Dickinson's Terrol Ishmail lands his long jump winning leap of more than 19 feet.
Click Here for photos from the HCTCA Championships.
By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director
SECAUCUS - The HCTCA Championships kicked off yesterday with the field events with the Dickinson boys and Bayonne girls taking early control at the top of the leader boards.
The Rams had a stranglehold on the jumping events, taking first place in both the high and long jumps. Junior Jose Veras took the high jump crown with a leap of 6’6” and Terrol Ishmail’s jump of 19’3.5” was tops in the long jump. Dickinson Dan Jean (fifth, long jump) and Hassan Hamed (tied third, high jump) also placed in the events. Read More
Volleyball: Bayonne sweeps Harrison, to face St. Peter's Prep in HCT Final
Softball Roundup: McNair's Rivas sets HR record, has six RBI
May 13, 2010
Garzon, Bayonne win big in HCT
Memorial senior David Garzon won his fourth-straight singles title.
Click Here for photos from the Hudson County Tournament Finals
JERSEY CITY - The past and future of Hudson County boys tennis were on display in the first singles final showdown between Memorial’s David Garzon and Secaucus’ Joshua Halpern.
Garzon’s high school career may be winding down, but yesterday, he wasn’t yet ready to relinquish his crown as the county’s premier player. The Tigers senior overcame a rough second set and a hamstring injury to win his fourth consecutive title with a 6-2, 2-6, 6-3 win over Halpern in the championships of the Hudson County Tournament at Saint Peter’s College. Read More
Boys Volleyball: Harrison sweeps Garfield
May 12, 2010
HCT: McNair, Harrison advance
Theodorous Economou had 17 assists for fourth-seeded McNair.
Peter Sikorski had 10 kills, five digs and three blocks as fourth-seeded McNair swept past fifth-seeded Union City 25-17, 25-21 in the quarterfinals of the Hudson County Tournament yesterday in Jersey City. Read More
Softball Roundup: Estremera's homer, five RBI power McNair
May 11, 2010
Primetime players
Senior Kyle Robinson scored four goals for St. Peter's Prep.
Click Here for photos from St. Peter's Prep at Livingston.
By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director
LIVINGSTON – The St. Peter’s Prep lacrosse team found themselves under the bright lights of primetime for the first time and responded with maybe their biggest win of the season.
With the Marauders’ backs against the wall, Kevin Cosgrove forced overtime with less than two minutes left. Nick Mangone completed the comeback with an overtime goal as Prep stunned the host Lancers 6-5 last night. Read More
Tennis: Hudson County Tournament starts. CLICK HERE FOR PHOTOS
Volleyball: Kearny advances in HCT.
Baseball: Union City locks up regular season title, High Tech rolls along.
May 10, 2010
Roundup: Harrison wins in eighth
Harrison's Jenny Escalante allowed just three hitts in the first round of the HCT.
Harrison 3, McNair 2
After being no-hit for the entire game, Zully Galabay tied the game for Harrison on a bloop single with two outs in the seventh. A bases-loaded hit by pitch in the eighth capped off a stunning win for the 15th-seeded Blue Tide in the first round of the Hudson County Tournament in Jersey City on Saturday. Read More
May 9, 2010
Coming up aces
Junior Azriel Andrickson struck out 11 batters in a complete-game victory.
Click Here for photos from Hoboken at North Bergen.
By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director
NORTH BERGEN – Sometimes it can take a pitcher multiple innings before they find that right rhythm on the mound. For North Bergen’s Azriel Andrickson he found it in his heart before he threw a pitch.
The Bruins’ ace turned that pre-game rhythm into a dominant performance as Andrickson went the distance in a 6-2 victory over Hoboken in the first round of the Hudson County Tournament. Read More
May 8, 2010
Back on track
Senior Ricky Touzet led Harrison with 15 kills and 11 digs in the victory.
Click Here for photos from Harrison at McNair.
By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director
JERSEY CITY – On the surface, yesterday’s match against McNair was merely one last tune-up before the start of the Hudson County Tournament for the Harrison boys volleyball team. But for the Blue Tide, who has lost three of their previous four matches, calling it a must-win might be more appropriate.
Harrison will enter next week’s tournament on a winning note after recovering from some early tension and earning a 25-23, 25-16 victory over the Cougars. Read More
Volleyball Roundup: Memorial enters HCT with sweep of Dickinson.
Softball Roundup: Mora's four RBI, relief win lead McNair over Snyder.
May 7, 2010
Patriot power
Junior Andrea Innis hit two homers and had seven RBI in the victory.
Click Here for photos from Secaucus at Harrison.
By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director
HARRISON – With the county and state tournaments looming, the Secaucus softball team knew it was time to establish a consistency that they’ve been seeking all season long. If yesterday’s performance is any indication, the Patriots may be on the verge of hitting that elusive hot streak.
The Secaucus offense delivered early and often in what might have been its best game of the season, an 18-0 victory over Harrison yesterday in a dominant performance. Read More
More Softball: Rivas' homer, five RBI power McNair past Memorial
May 6, 2010
Hurricane warning
County Prep pitcher Alyssa Guzman helped herself at bat with three runs scored.
Click Here for photos from County Prep at McNair.
By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director
JERSEY CITY – If County Prep was looking to send a message heading into the Hudson County Tournament, they certainly succeeded.
The Hurricanes let their bats do all the talking on this day, scoring 11 runs in a three-inning scoring binge to defeat McNair 13-6 in a showdown of the top two teams in the division yesterday at Enos Jones Field. Read More
May 5, 2010
Double trouble
Eric Mozeika shows his excitement after a three-run homer in the sixth inning.
Click Here for photos from Tenafly at High Tech.
By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director
SECAUCUS – As High Tech’s top two pitchers and as the heart of the lineup, few duos have been as valuable as the Lasercats’ tandem of Jose Arismendi and Eric Mozeika.
Whether it was on the mound or at the plate, both standouts made their presence felt as Arismendi and Mozeika teamed up for five RBI and seven strong innings of pitching in High Tech’s 7-2 victory over Tenafly yesterday. Read More
Baseball Roundup: Borges steals the show for Union City.
May 4, 2010
Marshall Plan
Leonard Marshall is introduced as the new head coach at Hudson Catholic.
Click Here for photos from Hudson Catholic's football press conference.
By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director
JERSEY CITY – Since retiring from the NFL in 1994, Leonard Marshall has devoted himself to a career in education – first in getting his MBA at Seton Hall University and then as a professor at the school from 2004 until 2009, teaching Sports Management and Business Finance.
For Marshall, who was introduced yesterday as the new head football coach at Hudson Catholic, it’s an opportunity to not only get more involved with the game that made him famous, but to continue his journey as an educator. Read More
Baseball Roundup: Union City tops St. Peter's Prep in eight innings.
Volleyball Roundup: Bayonne, Harrison win again.
May 3, 2010
Off and running
David Rivera and Hudson Catholic defeated Weehawken in 11 innings on Saturday.
By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director
The Hudson County Basebal and Softballl Tournaments started up this weekend and if the first day of play is any indication, it will be a month full of thrills.
Saturday's action was highlighted by an 11-inning affair between 17th-seeded Hudson Catholic and 16th-seeded Weehawken in the preliminary round of the baseball tournament. After losing a lead in the seventh, the Hawks recovered to win 3-2 in extra innings.
On the softball side, Kearny, Bayonne and Marist started out strong with convincing wins over the weekend.
Below are the results and complete brackets for the Hudson County Baseball and Softball Tournaments.
Click Here for the Hudson County Baseball Tournament Info
Click Here for the Hudson County Softball Tournament Info
May 2, 2010
Speed demons
Snyder's Shanice Henry was sixth in the 200 Meter Dash and eighth in the 400.
By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director
The Snyder track team won two events in yesterday’s Bernards Invitational in Bernardsville.
Junior Zamir Thomas set the tone for the Tigers, winning the 200 Meter Dash with a time of 21.47 seconds. He was also the front leg of Snyder’s winning 4x100 Meter Relay team. The quartet of Thomas, Rashawn Taylor, Timoy Malcolm and Dwight Andrews won the event with a time of 43.92 seconds. Read More
May 1, 2010
High marks
County Prep's Victoria Pessolano struck 12 batters in seven innings.
Click Here for photos from Memorial at County Prep.
By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director
BAYONNE – As the number two starting pitcher on the County Prep staff, sophomore Victoria Pessolano hadn’t been asked to take the ball in pressure situations.
Head coach Meave Connelly gave Pessolano her first real test in the circle and she proved up to the challenge. Pessolano struck out 12 batters in a complete-game performance to lift the Hurricanes past division rival Memorial 10-2 yesterday at Bayonne Park.
Read More
Baseball Roundup: Hanna saves the day for St. Peter's Prep.
Volleyball Roundup: St. Peter's Prep sweeps, Memorial splits.
April 30, 2010
Roundup: Bees even score with UC
Rafal Kierznowski's 11 kills and six blocks were both match-highs for the Bees.
Richie Boyle had nine kills, seven digs, four aces and three blocks as the Bees knocked off Union City 25-14, 19-25, 25-23 yesterday in Bayonne. Read More
April 29, 2010
Sigh of relief
Nick Cordato is greeted by his Bayonne teammates after hitting a two-run homer.
Click Here for photos from Bayonne at Kearny.
By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director
KEARNY – Bayonne may have had a three-run lead in the bottom of the sixth, but for manager Phil Baccarella it felt like the onset of a recurring nightmare. Four times this season the Bees had lost a lead in the opponent’s final turn at bat and was in danger of making if five as Kearny brought the tying run up to the plate with nobody out.
This time would be different as Mike Santana came on in relief to escape the jam and Bayonne unloaded for eight runs in the seventh to defeat the home Kardinals 12-5 yesterday at Franklin Field. Read More
Baseball Roundup: Lebron strikes out 12 for Union City. Prep downs Hoboken.
Volleyball Roundup: Budny's 21 assists, four aces lift Bayonne.
April 28, 2010
Roundup: Bees tame Tigers in three
Rafal Kierznowski's 11 kills and six blocks were both match-highs for the Bees.
Rafal Kierznowski led all players with 11 kills and six blocks as the Bees held off Memorial 25-10, 16-25, 25-15 yesterday in Bayonne. Kierznowski also had 10 service points and three aces. Read More
April 27, 2010
Holding on
Union City's Andres Martinez had 23 assists in the win over Memorial.
Click Here for photos from Union City at Memorial.
By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director
WEST NEW YORK – For Union City it was all about regaining confidence.
After controlling play for most of the third game, the Soaring Eagles found themselves on the verge of self-destruction as five consecutive Memorial points put would had been a certain victory, in peril. Despite the tense situation, Union City would ensure this win would not get away as they held on for a 21-25, 25-16, 25-21 victory yesterday. Read More
Boys Volleyball Roundup: Harrison wins in three, Bayonne sweeps Dickinson
April 25, 2010
Invitation only
Matt Strzala and Bayonne went 4-2 in Pool Play at the Livingston Invitational.
Click Here for photos from the Livingston Invitational
By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director
LIVINGSTON – Some of the state’s top volleyball teams, including three from Hudson County, descended to Livingston for the Livingston Invitational. For the Hudson trio the results were mixed in the 16-team field which featured five squads among the top 20 in the state. Read More
April 24, 2010
Roundup: SPP scores 15 in win
Nick Galasso had three RBI and a triple for St. Peter's Prep.
St. Peter’s Prep 15, St. Mary’s 5
The Marauders unloaded for nine first-inning runs and never looked back yesterday at Lincoln Park. Read More
Boys Volleyball Roundup: Bayonne holds off Kearny
April 23, 2010
Roundup: Touzet lifts Blue Tide
Harrison's Ricky Touzet had nine kills and seven digs in the win.
Ricky Touzet had nine kills and seven digs as the Blue Tide downed West Essex 25-14, 25-8 yesterday in North Caldwell. Read More
April 22, 2010
Message sent
Senior outside hitter Kenny Walter had eight kills, seven aces and five digs.
Click Here for photos from St. Peter's Prep at Bayonne.
By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director
BAYONNE – In recent years, few volleyball rivalries in the state have matched the intensity or competitiveness of Bayonne and St. Peter’s Prep. Both teams have produced thrilling, closely-contested matchups, often with a conference or state sectional title on the line.
The first 2010 meeting between the Hudson powers however, was no contest. Read More
More Boys Volleyball: Harrison sweeps Jefferson
April 21, 2010
Roundup: Bees hold off Blue Tide
Richie Boyle had 15 kills and eight service points to lead Bayonne.
Senior Richie Boyle had 15 kills, eight service points and two blocks to help propel the Bees past Harrison 22-25, 25-23, 25-19 in a three-game thriller yesterday in Bayonne.
Read More
April 20, 2010
Back in business
Hoboken junior Sal Pagan had three RBI and picked up the save in relief.
Click Here for photos from Marist at Hoboken.
By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director
HOBOKEN – After a tough performance on his last outing on Friday, the Red Wings’ Sal Pagan was just waiting for the chance for redemption. Yesterday against Marist, he got that opportunity and took full advantage, both on the mound and at the plate
Pagan blasted a three-run homer in the fifth inning and then recorded the game’s final five outs out of the bullpen as Hoboken held off the Royal Knights 7-4 at JFK Stadium.
Read More
Baseball Roundup: Caraballo drives in three for Union City.
Softball Roundup: St. Dominic Academy wins twice behind Leale, Bolger.
April 19, 2010
HCV's All-County Teams
Who else joined Derrick Williams (c) and Myles Davis (r) on HCV's All-County Team?
By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director
The balls have been put away and the lights have been turned off on a 2009-2010 high school basketball season in Hudson County that certainly wasn't lacking in memorable moments.
This season saw legendary head coach Bob Hurley finally earn basketball's highest honor as he was elected to the Hall of Fame. We saw a true Hudson County Tournament for the first time with the Bayonne girls and St. Peter's Prep emerging victorious. The championships wouldn't stop there as Jersey City was the capital of New Jersey high school basketball for one evening in March as the Marauders and Friars took home sectional titles on the same night in Piscataway.
But the most memorable on-court moment didn't take place on the campus of Rutgers, but in the Jersey City Armory as St. Peter's Prep and St. Anthony engaged in a matchup, few will forget. The much-anticipated showdown lived up to the considerable hype as the Friars made a stunning late comeback before winning the instant classic in overtime.
As we say farewell to the 2009-2010 season, here are our selections for Hudson County Varsity's First Annual All-County Team.
HCV's All-County Boys Basketball Team
HCV's All-County Girls Basketball Team
April 17, 2010
Roundup: Union City, Prep hold on
St. Peter's Prep third baseman Marc Hanna went 2-for-3 with a run and a RBI.
St. Peter’s Prep 4, Bayonne 3
Mike Martucci was a perfect 3-for-3 at the plate as the Marauders held on for the victory yesterday at Caven Point. Read More
Volleyball Roundup: Kucza, Bees down County Prep
April 16, 2010
Power play
North Bergen's Carla Arismendi struck out seven batters and allowed just two hits.
Click Here for photos from North Bergen at High Tech.
By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director
NORTH BERGEN – Bruins pitcher Carla Arismendi has plenty of pitches at her disposal when she’s steps into the circle. For most of yesterday’s showdown against High Tech she only needed one – her fastball.
In a fight of power vs. power it was Arismendi’s heater which won out over the lethal Lasercats lineup. She allowed just two hits to outduel Erica Colon as North Bergen knocked off their in-town rivals 2-0 at North Hudson Park. Read More
Volleyball Roundup: Touzet shines for Harrison
April 15, 2010
Rising Tide
Senior Matt Surmacz had three kills and two blocks to help lead the Blue Tide.
Click Here for photos from Harrison at County Prep.
By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director
JERSEY CITY – To find the answer behind Harrison volleyball’s turnaround this season, one only has to look towards the front.
The intimidating front-court trio of junior Rahim Douelfakar and seniors Matt Surmacz and Chris Osiecki helped key a 25-17, 25-19 victory over County Prep yesterday as the Blue Tide (7-2) are just one win away from matching their total of a year ago. Read More
Baseball Roundup: Union City dominant in win over Bayonne
April 14, 2010
Bringing the heat
Junior Stephanie Bolger struck out 12 batters for St. Dominic Academy.
Click Here for photos from St. Dominic Academy at Bayonne.
By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director
BAYONNE – After an up-and-down first season as St. Dominic Academy’s starting pitcher, Stephanie Bolger knew that location and consistency were two areas she would have to improve at to take her game to the next level.
Yesterday was an example of just what the junior is capable of doing in the circle. Bolger was downright dominant at times, striking out 12 batters to help lead the Blue Devils past Bayonne 8-1 yesterday at Gorman Field. Read More
Baseball Roundup: Marauders' Scianni blanks County Prep
April 13, 2010
Off to the races
North Bergen's Danny Rondon won the 1,600 by more than eight seconds.
Click Here for photos from Patriot Invitational 2.
By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director
SECAUCUS - Yesterday's second stage of the Patriot Invitational was certainly a memorable one for the Dickinson boys track team. The Rams took home three first place finishes in the seven events for the boys. Jose Veras led the charge for Dickinson, winning the 110 high hurdles and finishing second in the long jump, an even which saw the Rams take home the top three spots. Read More
Baseball Roundup: Ventura's four hits lead Union City. Prep tops North Bergen
Boys Volleyball: Bayonne outlasts Memorial
April 11, 2010
Roundup: Matias goes deep for UC
Union City's Jose Matias slugged a two-run homer yesterday, one of two hits he had.
Union City 12, St. Mary (Rutherford) 2
First baseman Jose Matias’ two-run homerun was the big blow in a nine-run fifth inning as the Soaring Eagles earned their second win in a row yesterday in Rutherford. Matis finished 2-for-3 on the day for Union City (3-3). Read More
April 9, 2010
Home sweet home
Union City's Jefry Castro struck out seven batters in a complete game effort.
Click Here for photos from Memorial at Union City.
By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director
UNION CITY – Coming off of a 1-3 road trip to start the season, Union City knew it was imperative to open up their home schedule on a winning note.
Playing in their first-ever regular season game at their new rooftop field, the Soaring Eagles couldn’t have envisioned a better opening as they stormed past Memorial 10-1 yesterday at Roosevelt Stadium. Read More
More Baseball: Marauders take out Dickinson with eight in sixth
Volleyball: Mixed results for Bayonne
April 8, 2010
House of Kards
Shortstop Janitza Aquino went 3-for-4 with three runs scored for Kearny.
Click Here for photos from Kearny at Union City.
By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director
UNION CITY – For Kearny shortstop Janitza Aquino, all she needed was just one pitch to make her presence felt.
The junior took the first pitch she saw and laced it into left for an RBI double to give the Kardinals a lead they would never relinquish as they held off Union City 10-7 yesterday at the Midtown Athletic Complex. Read More
April 7, 2010
Learning experience
Weehawken shortstop Ray Feliciano scored twice and drove in two runs.
Click Here for photos from Dwight Englewood at Weehawken.
By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director
WEEHAWKEN – With a roster that relies heavily upon freshmen and sophomores, the early success of Weehawken had been one of the surprises from the season's opening week.
After winning their first three games of the season, the Indians quest for a fourth-straight win would come up just short as Dwight-Englewood rallied in the seventh for a come-from-behind victory yesterday at Weehawken Stadium. Read More
Baseball Roundup: St. Peter's Prep knocks off NY foe 6-1
Boys Volleyball Roundup: Bayonne come back to win in three
April 6, 2010
Roundup: Pappaceno no-hits Hawks
Prep's Jeremy Selecky went 2-for-2 with two runs and two RBI yesterday.
St. Peter’s Prep 10, Hudson Catholic 0
Paul Pappaceno was dominant, tossing a five-inning no-hitter for the Marauders yesterday afternoon at Caven Point. Read More
April 4, 2010
In command
Winning pitcher Danny Perez allowed just three runs and five hits in 5.1 innings.
Click Here for photos from Hudson Catholic at County Prep.
By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director
JERSEY CITY – For many high school pitchers, having complete command and confidence in one off-speed pitch is a challenge. Hudson Catholic right-hander Danny Perez isn't like most at this level - he has command of two.
Despite a lack of an over-powering fastball in his arsenal, Perez kept the County Prep off-balance with a devastating changeup-curveball combination in a 7-3 victory yesterday at Lincoln Park. Read More
April 3, 2010
Hall pass for Hurley
Bob Hurley has won 984 games and 10 Tournament of Champions titles.
By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director
With 984 career wins, 24 state championships and 10 Tournament of Champions titles in his 38 seasons at St. Anthony, head coach Bob Hurley’s status as one of the greatest high school coaches ever was never in question. Now you can add another honor to the seemingly endless list of accomplishments – hall of famer.
According to multiple reports, Hurley will be inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield, Mass on August 13. The official announcement will come on Monday at a press conference in Indianapolis. Read More
April 2, 2010
Driving force
Marc Hanna struck out seven batters in six innings to pick up the win.
Click Here for photos from St. Peter's Prep at St. Mary's.
By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director
JERSEY CITY – For Marc Hanna and Phil McGovern their chemistry goes beyond your typical pitcher-catcher relationship. It’s one that has grown from having similar personalities and driving each other to school each morning for more than a year.
That chemistry was on full display as the two carpool mates were the difference as St. Peter’s Prep opened their season on a winning note, knocking off St. Mary’s 7-2 in a matchup of last season’s HCIAA Coviello and Seglio champions yesterday at Caven Point.
Read More
Boys Volleyball Roundup: Bayonne sweeps past Dickinson
April 1, 2010
One mission
Alex Cogott and the Marauders have won the NJSIAA North title three straight years.
Click Here for photos from St. Peter's Prep Practice.
By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director
JERSEY CITY – For the St. Peter’s Prep volleyball team, their time is now.
After falling short in the NJSIAA championship game as sophomores and juniors, this senior year represents the chance for this veteran group to achieve the one goal that has eluded them during this recent run of success. Read More
March 29, 2010
Back in business
Junior pitcher Carla Arismendi is one of eight returning starters for North Bergen.
Click Here for photos from River Dell at North Bergen scrimmage.
By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director
NORTH BERGEN – For the Bruins softball team, this is an opportunity that rarely comes along. Returning eight starters is a luxury any coach would love to have. With eight starters coming back from a team which went 23-4 a year ago, head coach Tom Eagleson was hard-pressed to remember having a team with this combination of talent and experience.
“It’s been a long time since we only lost one (starter),” he said. “Usually we lose three or four. Only (losing) one starter this year, is going to be nice.” Read More
March 28, 2010
New team, same goals
Sophomore Kris Kucza is one of five new starters for Bayonne this season.
Click Here for photos from Bayonne Practice.
By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director
BAYONNE – Replacing five starters from last year’s Hudson County championship squad won’t be an easy task for the Bayonne volleyball team.
While the challenge of replacing so many players may seem daunting, the expectations remain high for the Bees team which may be lacking in experience, but might be one of the biggest in the state. Read More
March 23, 2010
Prime performers
Marist's Marv Williams was named Player of the Year in Tri-County Hudson Division B.
By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director
North Bergen’s Noel Allen and Marist’s Marv Williams took home the top honors as the Hudson County coaches made their selections for All-Division Teams recently in boys basketball. Read More
March 19, 2010
Star struck
Noel Allen (left) is one of three from Hudson County in the North-South All-Star Game.
By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director
Three basketball standouts from Hudson County will be amonst the participants Sunday's NJ Coaches Association North-South All-Star Game. Read More
March 17, 2010
Coaches make their picks
Connie Hayes was one of two Bees to earn All-Division honors in Division A.
Recently Hudson County coaches made their selections for All-Division honors for girls basketball. Here are the coaches’ selections for All-Division teams in Tri-County Hudson Divisions A, B and C Read More
March 12, 2010
Jump for joy
St. Anthony celebrates after upsetting Paterson Catholic 63-49 last night.
Click Here for photos from St. Anthony vs Paterson Catholic.
Click Here for photos from St. Peter's Prep vs Seton Hall Prep.
PISCATAWAY - In what has already been an impressive season for St. Anthony and St. Peter's Prep you can now add another accomplishment to their already impressive resumes - sectional champions.
One year after being blown out at home by Seton Hall Prep in the semifinals, the Marauders extracted some revenge against their Essex County rival. After struggling to find a consistency on the offensive end for the first three quarters, St. Peter’s Prep broke through in the fourth behind a pair of Stephon Whyatt 3-pointers to earn a 64-54 win in the NJSIAA Non-Public, North A final. Read More. Click Here to View Photos
Winning championships is nothing new for the Friars, but few might be as unexpected as this one. Entering last night’s NJSIAA Non-Public, North B final as heavy underdogs, St. Anthony used a monster performance from Elijah Carter and a stifling defensive effort to upset previously unbeaten Paterson Catholic 63-49.
Read More. Click Here to View Photos
Both teams will now play tomorrow in the Group final at the Ritacco Center in Toms River and are one win away from a spot in the Tournament of Champions.
March 10, 2010
On the move
Wilbur Valdez takes over as the head coach at Union City after seven seasons at Ferris.
By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director
When he was scouting Union City from the opposing sidelines, Wilbur Valdez could see the potential was there for the program to become something special. It is now up to Valdez, who officially was named the Soaring Eagles’ head coach last week, to transform that potential into on-field success. Read More
March 9, 2010
Crowd pleaser
The St. Peter's Prep student section celebrates with the players after a 83-59 win.
Click Here for photos from Don Bosco Prep at St. Peter's Prep.
By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director
JERSEY CITY – For JJ Hladik and the Marauders it would have been difficult to write a better script than this.
Playing in their final home game of the season (the last ever for Hladik and six other seniors), St. Peter’s Prep dominated Don Bosco Prep 83-59 in a NJSIAA Non-Public, North A semifinal which ended with the “Marauder Nation” student section storming the court to celebrate with their fellow classmates. Read More
March 6, 2010
Rare air
The Marauders' Ronald Roberts had 30 points, 14 rebounds and four blocks.
Click Here for photos from DePaul Catholic at St. Peter's Prep.
By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director
JERSEY CITY – For most high school basketball players the game is played below the rim. Ronald Roberts is one of those rare exceptions where the rim does not represent a ceiling as he flies through the air and across the court.
The 6-foot-8 senior was a human highlight reel as he continued his torrid scoring pace to help lead St. Peter’s Prep to a 79-58 victory over DePaul Catholic in the quarterfinals of the NJSIAA Non-Public, North A tournament. Read More
March 5, 2010
Double trouble
St. Anthony's Devon Collier had nine points and seven rebounds last night.
Click Here for photos from Gill St. Bernard's at St. Anthony.
By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director
JERSEY CITY – Before the season began, St. Anthony and head coach Bob Hurley envisioned plenty of games where their size advantage would allow them to dominate opponents in the paint and on the glass.
Injuries and ineligibility dashed those plans for most of the season. But last night the Friars’ duo of Devon Collier and Derrick Williams showed why they are amongst the state’s best big men in a 58-30 victory over Gill St. Bernard’s in the quarterfinals of the NJSIAA Non-Public, North B tournament last night at the CERC. Read More
March 4, 2010
Out in front
Freshman Ariana Simon scored nine of her 15 points in the first quarter for Secaucus.
Click Here for photos from High Tech at Secaucus.
By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director
SECAUCUS – Throughout the season, Secaucus has made a habit of putting games away early on. Despite some stressful moments late in the game, the Patriots once again took a quick lead and made it stick, defeating High Tech 50-43 in the second round of the NJSIAA North 2, Group I tournament last night. Read More
Boys Basketball Roundup: Roberts, Walker have double-doubles for Prep.
March 3, 2010
Gill powered
Holy Family's Christina Gill (right) scored 16 of her 35 points in the fourth quarter.
Click Here for photos from Marist at Holy Family.
Click Here for photos from St. Mary's at Marist.
By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director
BAYONNE – All season long Holy Family has relied upon the one-two inside combination of Diane Forker and Christina Gill to do the heavy lifting on offense. With Forker and guard Kaydee Murphy sidelined with injuries, the Falcons would need Gill to take her game to a new level.
The senior forward responded with the biggest game of her career, finishing with 35 points and 18 rebounds as Holy Family outlasted Marist 71-61 in the first round of the NJSIAA Non-Public, North B tournament. Read More
Click Here to View Photos
Boys Basketball: St. Mary's rediscovers shot to defeat Marist. View Photos
Boys Basketball Roundup: Dickinson wins in OT, Bayonne advances.
March 2, 2010
Worth the wait
Anthony Ugarte had 10 points in Harrison's first home playoff game since 1991.
Click Here for photos from McNair at Harrison.
By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director
HARRISON – With their team playing in its first home state playoff game since 1991, the Blue Tide’s four senior starters were determined not to have their careers end on this night.
Trailing in the fourth after an extended scoring drought, Harrison responed with 14 points in the final six and a half minutes to ensure the program’s first playoff game in 12 years would result in a win, a 36-28 victory over McNair in the first round of the NJSIAA North 2, Group I tournament. Read More
Girls Basketball Roundup: High Tech, Secaucus to meet after wins
March 1, 2010
Repeat performances
Bayonne (left) and St. Peter's Prep (right) both repeated as champions last night.
Click Here for photos from Bayonne vs Lincoln Girls Basketball.
Click Here for photos from St. Peter's Prep vs North Bergen Boys Basketball.
JERSEY CITY - For Bayonne and St. Peter's Prep, ending the season as champions is hardly a new feeling for them.
The Bees got off to a fast start as MVP Tara Flynn hit a trio of 3-pointers in the opening half. After a late surge by Lincoln, Bayonne showed the experience and poise that made them the top seed as they held on for a 39-33 win to repeat as champions.
Read More. Click Here to View Photos
The Marauders continued their domination of Hudson County, winning their third-straight championship behind the trio of Kevin Walker, Ronald Roberts and Myles Davis. But for three-time winners such as Walker and Keith Lumpkin, they know more work needs to be done with a goal of state title in their sights.
Read More. Click Here to View Photos