February 2, 2012

Keon Williams (left) and Jared Crayton (right) sign papers as part of the Signing Day ceremony. (Photo: Jason Bernstein)

2012 St. Anthony, St. Peter's Prep Signing Day Photos

JERSEY CITY – At a time when high school athletes are formally confirming their college futures, at St. Peter's Prep it was a time to reflect and celebrate the last four years of success at the downtown Jersey City school.

"It's been an honor to coach them, it really has," head coach Rich Hansen said of his contingent of prospects during Tuesday's ceremony. "I have stories about each and every one of them, but in the end the time goes so fast and we really don't have a lot of time together, but the time we do have is quality time and the four years meant a lot to me. They mean a lot to the school and I really think these guys are going to move on and do great things."

This year's class had five players signing to various Universities throughout the country. D.J. Singleton (who was in Texas for the International Bowl) signed with Wisconsin. Mike Giacone signed with Boston College. Brandon Napoleon is going to West Virginia. Jared Crayton is heading to Fordham and Keon Williams is off to Delaware State.

For Napoleon, one of New Jersey's top defensive back recruits, the commitment to West Virginia had greater meaning as it is the alma mater of his dad Eugene, a standout running back for the Mountaineers from 1986-1989.

"It's very special," Brandon said. "I committed the day before Father's Day so that was his present. It was just a very emotional moment between me and him."

Family , as well as the chance to play early, were factors for Crayton and Williams.

"It's a great school, I have a chance to play early, play right away," said Crayton, who rushed for more than 1,000 yards a season ago. "I think it's a great opportunity to go to a school like that and being able to go there for free and I think I can do a lot with that. I'm excited about going down there."

Williams will have the benefit of having another Jersey City native - St. Anthony tight end Nate Ortiz, joining him at Delaware State.

In addition to the five football players, St. Peter's Prep also recognized college-bound seniors Najee Glass (Florida for track) and soccer standouts Ryan Baird (Rutgers), Roberto Chernez (Bloomfield) and Rory Duffy (Rider).

"My experiences here were phenomenal," Williams said. "I will never have a chance to play with guys like this again because these are my brothers right now. I just enjoyed every moment of it. I just thank (Coach Hansen) and thank all of my teammates for making this experience what it was. I'm just happy for all of us and how it's turned out."

Prep standouts Brandon Napoleon (l) and Keon Williams (r) pose with coach Rich Hansen. (Photo: Jason Bernstein)

2012 St. Anthony, St. Peter's Prep Signing Day Photos