St. Peter's Prep Marauders

November 20, 2010

A familiar feeling

Don Bosco, St. Peter's Prep

Brandon Napoleon (l) tries to avoid the rush of Razohnn Gross and Michael Strizak.

Click Here for more photos from St. Peter's Prep at Don Bosco Prep.

By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director

RAMSEY – For St. Peter’s Prep last night was just the latest chapter in what has been a half-decade nightmare. The players and the story may change, but for the Marauders the ending has remained the same.

St. Peter’s saw its title hopes dashed by Don Bosco Prep for the fifth year in a row. This time it was a 37-0 defeat at Granatell Stadium in the NJSIAA Non-Public, Group IV semifinals to end the Marauders’ season. Read More

November 19, 2010

St. Peter's Prep at Don Bosco

Savon Huggins, St. Peter's Prep

Savon Huggins and the Marauders looks to snap a five-game slide vs Don Bosco.

By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director

Non-Public, Group IV
St. Peter’s Prep (9-1) at Don Bosco Prep (9-0)
Friday, 7 p.m.

For each of the past four seasons the sight of Don Bosco Prep, has meant one thing for St. Peter’s Prep – the end of the line. Read More

November 6, 2010

Prep wins seventh in a row

Sheldon Royster, St. Peter's Prep

Senior Sheldon Royster raced 68 yards for a touchdown in the second quarter.

Click Here for more photos from Friendship Academy at St. Peter's Prep.

By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director

JERSEY CITY – As the state playoffs start up next weekend, few teams are entering the tournament as hot as St. Peter’s Prep.

The Marauders rolled to their seventh-straight victory after a dominant 42-7 win over Friendship Collegiate Academy of Washington D.C. yesterday afternoon at Caven Point. Read More

November 5, 2010

UC wins in final minutes

Kevin Morales, Union City

Kevin Morales' three goals led Union City to the North 1, Group IV semifinals.

Union City 3, Morris Knolls 2

Kevin Morales snapped a 2-all tie with just two minutes left as the Soaring Eagles advanced in the quarterfinals of the NJSIAA North 1, Group IV tournament yesterday in Union City. Read More

November 2, 2010

State playoffs start up

Andrew Romero, St. Peter's Prep

Andrew Romero scored the lone goal of the game for St. Peter's Prep yesterday.

St. Peter’s Prep 1, Immaculata 0

Andrew Romero’s goal in the second half proved to be the difference for the Marauders as they advanced in the NJSIAA Non-Public, North A tournament yesterday at Caven Point. Read More

October 31, 2010

Out of the shadows

Jose Veras, Dickinson

Dickinson's Jose Veras had the top time in Hudson County Championship Meet.

Click Here for photos from the Hudson County Championship Meet

By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director

BAYONNE - For the Dickinson boys cross country team the secret is out. In recent years the Rams have experienced great success within Hudson County with little fanfare.

But as Dickinson locked up a third-straight title at the Hudson County Cross Country Championships yesterday at Steven Gregg Park, the state has had little choice but to take notice of the Jersey City school’s rise as legitimate challenge in the state. Read More

October 29, 2010

Roundup: Prep jolt Bulldogs

Ajani Phillips, St. Peter's Prep

St. Peter's Prep freshman Ajani Phillips scored in on Thursday's OT win.

St. Peter’s Prep 3, Ferris 2

Andrew Romero had a goal and an assist as the Marauders overcame a two-goal deficit to defeat the Bulldogs in the second overtime last night at Caven Point. Read More

October 27, 2010

Roundup: Prep bounces back

Andrew Romero, St. Peter's Prep

Andrew Romero had a goal and three assists for St. Peter's Prep on Tuesday.

St. Peter’s Prep 4, Kearny 0

Andrew Romero had a goal and three assists as the Marauders extracted a small measure of revenge Tuesday night in Jersey City. Read More

October 26, 2010

Kearny back in finals

Kearny Kardinals

Kearny celebrates Danny Vieceli's overtime goal to defeat St. Peter's Prep.

Click Here for more photos from Kearny vs St. Peter's Prep.

By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director

JERSEY CITY – For Kearny’s Danny Vieceli, making a mistake on the soccer field has never paid off like this.

Vieceli’s free kick in the second minute of overtime from the right of the box, which was meant to be a cross to a teammate, instead struck the far post and in to give the Kardinals a 3-2 victory over St. Peter’s Prep in the semifinals of the Hudson County Tournament at Caven Point. Read More

October 17, 2010

HCT: Dethroned

Franco Collechio, North Bergen

Franco Collechio (right) sent the Bruins into the semifinals with a penalty kick goal.

North Bergen 2, Harrison 1

Freshman Franco Collechio’s penalty kick goal was the game-winner to cap off the Bruins’ upset victory in the quarterfinals of the Hudson County Tournament yesterday in Harrison.
Read More

October 15, 2010

Going the distance

Ajani Phillips, St. Peter's Prep

Ajani Phillips scored a first half goal for St. Peter's Prep yesterday.

Click Here for more photos from St. Peter's Prep at Dickinson.

By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director

JERSEY CITY – With the ball 40 yards away, it might not seem as if a goal is imminent. For St. Peter’s Prep and Roberto Chernez it’s where they are at their most dangerous.

Chernez’s powerful leg on free kicks helped set up two goals in a span of 12 minutes as the Marauders blanked Dickinson 2-0 yesterday at Caven Point. Read More

October 10, 2010

In command

Brandon Napoleon, St. Peter's Prep

QB Brandon Napoleon threw for 105 yards and a touchdown in a win over Union City.

Click Here for more photos from Union City at St. Peter's Prep.

By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director

JERSEY CITY – Brandon Napoleon knew of the pressure facing him this season. Moving from safety to quarterback would be enough of a challenge for most. But Napoleon also had the daunting task of replacing an All-State QB in Raphael Ortiz and leading a team with state title aspirations. Read More

Boys Soccer: Harrison, St. Peter's Prep, North Bergen among HCT winners

September 25, 2010

Upset averted

Savon Huggins, St. Peter's Prep

Savon Huggins rushed for three touchdowns as St. Peter's Prep held off North Bergen.

Click Here for more photos from St. Peter's Prep at North Bergen.

By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director

NORTH BERGEN – For more than three quarters, all the pieces seemed to be in place for North Bergen to pull off the biggest upset Hudson County had seen in years. The Bruins had controlled the ball on offense and forced a pair of turnovers on defense, leaving St. Peter’s Prep in danger of their second-straight stunning loss.

After plenty of tense moments, the Marauders finally recovered as big plays late from Savon Huggins and Dan Lesce proved to be enough as Prep escaped North Bergen with a 28-14 victory. Read More

September 5, 2010

Great expectations

Brandon Napoleon, St. Peter's Prep

Junior Brandon Napoleon takes over as the Marauders' starting quarterback in 2010.

Click Here for more photos from St. Peter's Prep's football practice.

By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director

JERSEY CITY –St. Peter’s Prep is aware of all the expectations being placed upon them before the season. Many preseason rankings are calling the Marauders the top team in New Jersey and one of the best in the country. They also have three of the top prospects in the country. Read More

June 4, 2010

Painful reminder

John Armstrong St. Peter's Prep

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 St. Peter's Prep

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

Kenny Walter St. Peter's Prep

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

Zamir Thomas Snyder

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

St. Peter's Prep Marauders

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 15, 2010

Back on top

St. Peter's Prep

(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

Terrol Ishmail Dickinson

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

May 11, 2010

Primetime players

Kyle Robinson St. Peter's Prep

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

May 4, 2010

Roundup: Union City wins in eighth

Willy Tavares Union City

Willy Tavares had a sacrifice fly in the eighth inning for Union City.

Union City 6, St. Peter’s Prep 4

Willy Tavares plated with Ray Cassens with a single to break a 4-all tie and Edwin Hererra added a sacrifice fly in the eighth inning for the Soaring Eagles yesterday at Caven Point. Read More

May 2, 2010

Speed demons

Shanice Henry Snyder

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

Roundup: Prep sweeps Memorial

Kenny Walter St. Peter's Prep

Senior Kenny Walter had 10 kills and five blocks for St. Peter's Prep.

Senior Kenny Walter had 10 kills and five blocks as the Marauders cruised to a 25-14, 25-20 victory over Memorial yesterday in West New York. Read More
Baseball Roundup: Hanna saves the day for St. Peter's Prep.

April 29, 2010

Roundup: Lebron excels for UC

Victor Lebron Union City

Union City's Victor Lebron struck out 12 and had three hits, including a homer.

Union City 8, St. Mary’s 6

Victor Lebron struck out 12 batters in six innings and delivered three extra-base hits at the plate to lift the Soaring Eagles yesterday in Union City. Read More

April 24, 2010

Roundup: SPP scores 15 in win

Nick Galasso St. Peter's Prep

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

April 22, 2010

Message sent

Kenny Walter St. Peter's Prep

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

April 19, 2010

HCV's All-County Teams

Ronald Roberts St. Peter's Prep

Ronald Roberts made dunks like this routine and is 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.

As we say farewell to the 2009-2010 season, here are our selections for Hudson County Varsity's First Annual All-County Teams.

HCV's All-County Boys Basketball Team
HCV's All-County Girls Basketball Team

April 17, 2010

Roundup: Union City, Prep hold on

Marc Hanna St. Peter's Prep

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

April 14, 2010

Roundup: Scianni, Marauders blank Hurricanes

Phil McGovern St. Peter's Prep

The Marauders' Phil McGovern had two hits and an RBI against County Prep.

St. Peter’s Prep 3, County Prep 0

Angelo Scianni tossed a four-hit shutout for the Marauders yesterday in Jersey City. Scianni (1-1) struck out eight batters and allowed five walks. Read More

April 13, 2010

Roundup: UC's Ventura has four hits

Yeudy Ventura Union City

Union City's Yeudy Ventura had a pair of triples in a four-hit afternoon.

Union City 8, Marist 0

Yeudy Ventura went 4-for-5 with a pair of triples as the Soaring Eagles emerged victorious for the third straight game yesterday in Bayonne. Read More

April 9, 2010

Roundup: Eight run sixth lifts Prep

Jeremy Selecky St. Peter's Prep

Third baseman Jeremy Selecky had three doubles for St. Peter's Prep yesterday.

St. Peter’s Prep 9, Dickinson 1

Jeremy Selecky hit three doubles, scored twice and had two RBI as the Marauders’ offense erupted for eight sixth-inning runs yesterday at Cochrane Stadium. Read More

April 7, 2010

Roundup: Cole, Gardner power Prep

Nick Galasso St. Peter's Prep

Right fielder Nick Galasso had an RBI for St. Peter's Prep yesterday.

St. Peter’s Prep 6, Xavier 1

Sean Cole and James Gardner each drove in two runs as the Marauders downed Xavier of Jersey City yesterday. Read More

April 6, 2010

Roundup: Pappaceno no-hits Hawks

Jeremy Selecky St. Peter's Prep

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 2, 2010

Driving force

Marc Hanna St. Peter's Prep

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

April 1, 2010

One mission

Alex Cogott St. Peter's Prep

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 19, 2010

Star struck

Noel Allen North Bergen

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 12, 2010

Secret weapon

Stephon Whyatt St. Peter's Prep

Stephon Whyatt hit a pair of 3-pointers in the fourth quarter to lift St. Peter's Prep.

Click Here for photos from St. Peter's Prep vs Seton Hall Prep.

By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director

PISCATAWAY – For three-and-a-half quarters Seton Hall Prep had seemed to find the answer to stopping St. Peter’s Prep’s powerful offense. Head coach Bob Farrell’s defense had succeeded in frustrating shooter Myles Davis and kept the ball away from 6-foot-8 Ronald Roberts.

One player Farrell and the Pirates were not able to account for was Stephon Whyatt.
Read More

March 9, 2010

Crowd pleaser

St. Peter's Prep

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

Ronald Roberts St. Peter's Prep

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 4, 2010

Roundup: Roberts, Prep take flight

Ronald Roberts St. Peter's Prep

Ronald Roberts had seven dunks in a 23-point performance for St. Peter's Prep.

St. Peter’s Prep 98, Pope John 50

Ronald Roberts scored 16 first-half points as the third-seeded Marauders faced little resistance as they advanced to the second round of the NJSIAA Non-Public, North A tournament last night in Jersey City. Read More

March 1, 2010

More work to be done

St. Peter's Prep

The Marauders celebrate their third consecutive title after beating North Bergen.

Click Here for photos from St. Peter's Prep vs North Bergen.

By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director

JERSEY CITY – It’d be hard to blame St. Peter’s Prep for having a low-key celebration after their 81-65 victory over North Bergen in the final of the Hudson County Tournament.

As important as winning their third straight county championship for the first time since 1962 was for the Marauders, it isn’t their ultimate goal. That would be success in this week’s state playoffs. Read More

February 25, 2010

Prep comes alive in third to advance

Stephon Whyatt St. Peter's Prep

St. Peter's Prep guard Stephon Whyatt hit two 3-pointers in the third quarter.

Click Here for photos from Bayonne vs St. Peter's Prep.

By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director

JERSEY CITY – For St. Peter’s Prep, last night’s 90-69 victory in the semifinals of the Hudson County Tournament at the Yanitelli Center served as a reminder of just how dangerous they can be when everything is clicking.

After an unexpectedly challenging first half against, the top-seeded Marauders needed just eight minutes to take complete control and punch their ticket to Saturday’s final.
Read More

February 21, 2010

Roberts, Fluellen lead Prep to semis

Chase Fluellen St. Peter's Prep

Chase Fluellen had 15 points and 12 rebounds for Prep against Union City.

St. Peter’s Prep 81, Union City 43

Eleven different players scored for the Marauders led by Ronald Roberts’ 18 points as top-seeded St. Peter’s Prep advanced to the semifinals of the Hudson County Tournament yesterday in Jersey City. Read More

February 17, 2010

Target practice

Ronald Roberts St. Peter's Prep

Ronald Roberts (5) had 30 points and 15 rebounds for the Marauders last night.

Click Here for photos from High Tech at St. Peter's Prep.

By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director

JERSEY CITY – For the past two seasons the bulls-eye has been placed squarely on the back of St. Peter's Prep. After a landmark victory over legendary Oak Hill Academy that target has continued to grow even larger.

Less than 72 hours after that signature win, the Marauders found themselves with another challenge, this time from a motivated High Tech team. Prep was given a scare for three quarters, but in the end it proved to be too much Ronald Roberts and Myles Davis in a 90-72 victory last night at The Barn. Read More

February 14, 2010

Making history

Myles Davis St. Peter's Prep

Myles Davis drilled eight 3-pointers to finish with 33 points for the Marauders.

By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director

St. Peter’s Prep has had plenty of big wins in their transformation to one of the state’s premier teams. But none were bigger than the Maruaders’ stunning 84-81 victory over nationally-ranked Oak Hill Academy in last night’s PrimeTime Shootout in Trenton.

“This is the biggest win in the history of St. Peter’s Prep basketball on any level,” head coach Mike Kelly said. “I just can’t imagine that St. Peter’s Prep has been able. This was just a monumental win.” Read More

February 12, 2010

Marauders' season ends in semis

Gianni McLaughlin, Hunter Kiselick

Gianni McLaughlin (left) and Hunter Kiselick lock up in their 215-pound match.

Click Here for photos from Bergen Catholic at St. Peter's Prep Wrestling.

By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director

JERSEY CITY - How do you heal the emotional wounds of a heart-breaking playoff defeat? For St. Peter’s Prep head coach Anthony Verdi, he hopes the answer lies with a quick return to the mats after his Marauders fell to Bergen Catholic 33-27 in the Non-Public, North A semifinals last night.

“We’re going to try to get them back on the mat right away and not have them sit around until next Friday,” Verdi said. “Make sure they get back on the mat, clear their heads and put this behind them so we can go into the individual part of the season next week.” Read More

January 31, 2010

Prep falls in OT thriller

Myles Davis St. Peter's Prep

Myles Davis (center) had the shooting touch, scoring 31 points for St. Peter's Prep.

Click Here for photos from Christ the King at St. Peter's Prep.

By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director

NEWARK – Over the past three seasons, St. Peter’s Prep has undergone a rapid ascension from a struggling the make the HCIAA tournament to a state power. As remarkable as that transformation has been, the Marauders have their sights set on become a nationally-known team in the way they are on the gridiron.

Prep’s quest for that notoriety and the signature win that comes with it, fell just short in a 75-72 loss to Christ the King in the Newark National Invitational at the Prudential Center. Read More

January 28, 2010

Marauders, Bruins continue win streaks

Devin Ruiz, William Borke

Prep's Devin Ruiz (top) continues his match with William Borke sans head gear.

Click Here for photos from Bayonne at St. Peter's Prep Wrestling.

By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director

JERSEY CITY - St. Peter’s Prep continued to show why they are Hudson County’s premier team and one of the state’s best after a convincing 57-18 victory over Bayonne yesterday in Jersey City. Read More

January 20, 2010

Disaster averted

Keith Lumpkin St. Peter's Prep

The Marauders' Keith Lumpkin had 13 rebounds gainst North Bergen.

Click Here for photos from St. Peter's Prep at North Bergen.

By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director

NORTH BERGEN – Less than three minutes away from what would been the greatest win in school history, the last game for St. Peter’s Prep turned into a nightmare as a 10-point lead over St. Anthony ended in a crushing overtime defeat.

Last night in their first game since then, the Marauders once again saw a large lead in peril. Unlike the Dan Finn Classic, this one wouldn’t end in heartbreak as Prep held on for a 75-61 victory over the Bruins in front of a raucous crowd in North Bergen. Read More

January 17, 2010

Refuse to lose

Jordan Quick St. Anthony

Jordan Quick hit two 3-pointers in the fourth quarter to lead St. Anthony's comeback.

Click Here for photos from St. Anthony at St. Peter's Prep.

By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director

JERSEY CITY – This season’s edition of St. Anthony might not be the most talented group that Bob Hurley has coached in his many years at the school. But last night served as reminder to never count them out.

Trailing by 10 late in the fourth quarter, the Friars stormed back to defeat St. Peter’s Prep in a 67-64 overtime thriller in the nightcap of the Dan Finn Classic at the Jersey City Armory.
Read More

January 5, 2010

HCV's All-County Team

Huggins, Ortiz

Savon Huggins (left) and Raphael Ortiz (right) led Prep to the Non-Public, Group IV final.

By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director

The 2009 high school football season in Hudson County is in the books and while this season ended without anyone taking home a state championship, there were no shortage of memorable moments. Read More

December 28, 2009

Coaches make their picks

Corey Davis St. Peter's Prep

Corey Davis made the NJTCC Division 4 First Team on offense and defense.

Recently coaches made their selection for All-Conference honors for football. Here are the coaches' selections for All-Conference in NJTCC Division 4, NJTCC Division 6 and the BCSL National. Read More

December 18, 2009

Big expectations

Kevin Walker St. Peter's Prep

Point guard Kevin Walker is a three-year starter for the Marauders.

Click Here for photos from St. Peter's Prep Practice.

By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director

JERSEY CITY – On the surface it would seem like all the pieces are place for St. Peter’s Prep to take home a state championship.

The Marauders are blessed with size, speed and have everyone back from last season’s 23-3 campaign. But in the eyes of head coach Mike Kelly a run deep into March will be determined by the maturity of a group, which with only one senior starter, is still quite young. Read More

December 15, 2009

Opening act

Nick Bretzger St. Peter's Prep

Freshman Nick Bretzger made 23 saves for the Marauders in his varsity debut.

Click Here for more photos from St. Peter's Prep at Seton Hall Prep.

By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director

WEST ORANGE – The Marauders are still in search of their first win of the season, but they may have found their new goalie.

Nick Bretzger was a bright spot for St. Peter’s Prep, making 23 saves save in relief during his varsity debut in a 5-1 loss to Seton Hall Prep yesterday at Richard J. Codey Arena yesterday.

Read More

December 6, 2009

Not again

Tony Jones Don Bosco

Tony Jones (26) scored all five touchdowns for Don Bosco to defeat the Marauders.

By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director

EAST RUTHERFORD – St. Peter’s Prep entered Giants Stadium hoping to shock everyone and upset Don Bosco Prep, the nation’s No. 2 ranked team, yesterday in the NJSIAA Non-Public, Group IV title game.

Don Bosco’s Tony Jones had other ideas.

The Ironmen’s senior running back scored five times and racked up 276 yards of total offense and five touchdowns to lead Don Bosco to a 35-15 victory over the Marauders in the snow. It marked St. Peter’s Prep’s fifth straight loss to the Ironmen. Read More

Editor's Note: Due to exclusivity agreements with the NJSIAA, photos from this game are not available at this time. If you wish to be alerted when photos are available from this game, please send an e-mail at bernstein@hudsoncountyvarsity.com

December 4, 2009

True toughness

Raphael Ortiz St. Peter's Prep

As the oldest of six children, Raphael Ortiz is a leader on and off the field.

Click Here for photos from the Marauders' 2009 season.

By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director

JERSEY CITY – One of the most important tasks for a starting quarterback is being a leader for the rest of the team.

Growing up as the oldest of six children (five younger sisters ranging in age from 5 to 15), St. Peter’s Prep QB Raphael Ortiz learned the importance of being a positive role model and leading by example well before he became the starting quarterback. Read More

More St. Peter's Prep vs Don Bosco Prep Coverage

Marauders seek an upset in second chance against the Ironmen

December 2, 2009

'Heart of a lion"

Ducarmel Hyacinthe St. Peter's Prep

Senior DB Ducarmel Hyacinthe has become an inspirational leader for Prep.

Click Here for photos from the Marauders' 2009 season.

By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director

JERSEY CITY – Heart and leadership comes in all shapes and sizes. Few players demonstrate that more than the Marauders’ Ducarmel Hyacinthe.

Standing at just 5-foot-4 and 145 pounds, “Duke” has carved out a role in the secondary and on special teams for St. Peter’s Prep thanks to a work ethic and toughness rarely seen from guys twice his size. Read More

More Football: Hansen, Voorhees share big stage after sharing a sideline

November 22, 2009

In good hands

Savon Huggins St. Peter's Prep

Savon Huggins had 192 rushing yards and three touchdowns to lead St. Peter's Prep.

Click Here for more photos from Bergen Catholic at St. Peter's Prep.

By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director

JERSEY CITY – With less than two seconds left in the half and the ball on the Bergen Catholic 1-yard line, St. Peter’s Prep could have been content with a short field goal and a three-point lead.

But for head coach Rich Hansen and the Marauders, the decision was easy – put the ball in Savon Huggins’ hands. Read More

November 20, 2009

An incoming crusade

Sheldon Royster St. Peter's Prep

Sheldon Royster's 36-yard catch set up the winning score against Bergen Catholic.

Click Here for photos from Prep's win over Bergen Catholic in September.

By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director

When St. Peter’s Prep and Bergen Catholic squared off back in September, both sides knew it might not be the last time these North Jersey powers would see each other this season.

Eight weeks later the Marauders and Crusaders find themselves facing each other once again, this time with a spot in the NJSIAA Non-Public, Group IV championship game on the line.
Read More

November 7, 2009

Searching for answers

Tim Flannery St. Peter's Prep

Marauders FB Tim Flannery had a 22-yard reception in defeat.

Click Here for more photos from St. Peter's Prep at Don Bosco Prep.

By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director

RAMSEY – For Rich Hansen and the Marauders, it must feel like a recurring nightmare.

In a matchup of state powers, St. Peter’s Prep fell to rival Don Bosco Prep 42-9 last night at Granatell. The loss marks the Marauders’ fourth in a row to Don Bosco, each of them blowouts. Read More

October 29, 2009

Harrison rallies to down Prep

Bryan Aguilar Harrison

Harrison's Bryan Aguilar scored twice in six minutes against St. Peter's Prep.

Click Here for more photos from St. Peter's Prep at Harrison.

By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director

HARRISON – While the Blue Tide have collected wins in the BCSL National wins and Group I titles over the years, one thing they have not had the chance to prove is that they are the undisputed best team in Hudson County.

This year’s inaugural Hudson County Tournament has given Harrison that opportunity and thus far they have taken full advantage. The second-seeded Blue Tide used a trio of second half goals to down St. Peter’s Prep 3-1 in the semifinals of the Hudson County Tournament. Read More

October 24, 2009

Running wild

Savon Huggins St. Peter's Prep

Savon Huggins (left) set a Marauder single-game rushing record in last night's victory.

Click Here for more photos from St. Joseph (Mont) at St. Peter's Prep.

By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director

JERSEY CITY – Early in last night’s game, the Marauders’ Savon Huggins let it be known to his team that no one was going to stop him. Huggins’ vow proved to be prophetic as the junior running back set a St. Peter’s Prep record for rushing in a convincing 42-19 victory over No. 2 ranked St. Joseph (Montvale) last night at Caven Point. Read More

October 18, 2009

Rolls-Royster

Sheldon Royster St. Peter's Prep

Sheldon Royster touched the ball just four times, but had 172 yards and two touchdowns.

Click Here for more photos from North Bergen at St. Peter's Prep.

By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director

JERSEY CITY – With a crowded backfield and just one football to go around, finding touches for Sheldon Royster has been a challenge at times for St. Peter’s Prep. Royster didn’t get many touches, but when he did, he took advantage of them as the Marauders cruised past North Bergen 49-16 at Caven Point.

“(It’s difficult) sometimes,” Royster said about getting into a groove. “When (Coach Rich Hansen) gives me my carries I’ve got to do what I’ve got to do.” Read More

October 6, 2009

Up to the task

Eddie Silva Kearny

Eddie Silva scored twice as Kearny snapped a two-game losing streak.

Click Here for more photos from St. Peter's Prep at Kearny.

By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director

KEARNY – Before his team’s game against St. Peter’s Prep, Kearny coach Billy Galka challenged forward Eddie Silva to be the offensive presence that the Kardinals were missing in consecutive home losses to Dickinson and Memorial.

Silva, who started the season on the JV team, proved up to the challenge. The junior netted a pair of goals as the Kardinals got back on track with a 3-0 victory over St. Peter’s Prep yesterday at Harvey Field. Read More

September 27, 2009

Bouncing back

Gianni McLaughlin St. Peter's Prep

Gianni McLaughlin's forced fumble in the fourth quarter helped preserve a Prep win.

Click Here for more photos from St. Peter's Prep at Bergen Catholic.

By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director

ORADELL – For the past two weeks, St. Peter’s Prep had heard all the doubters and the skeptics. But the No. 9 ranked Marauders rose from the adversity, overcoming a fourth quarter deficit to down No. 3 ranked Bergen Catholic 26-23 yesterday at Crusaders Stadium.

“It speaks volume about our character,” Marauders coach Rich Hansen said. “It speaks volumes about the kind of kids we have in our program.” Read More

September 10, 2009

Big dreams ahead

Savon Huggins St. Peter's Prep

Junior Savon Huggins (right) is one of the state's best running backs

By Jason Bernstein
Editorial Director

JERSEY CITY – After being the dominant football power in Hudson County for more than a decade, the Marauders are ready for their toughest challenge to date. With their sights set on a state championship and a possible national ranking, St. Peter’s Prep enters the season with a grueling schedule that includes Don Bosco, Bergen Catholic, St. Joseph of Montvale and St. Joseph’s Prep in Philadelphia. It’s a challenge that Hansen relishes for his Maraduers squad that is ranked fifth in the state.

“We feel we’ve upgraded our schedule,” Hansen said. “It’s where we need to be and where we should be. Anything less would be a disservice to the program. This is what high school football is all about going in great venues and playing against great teams in great environments with a lot on the line. We’re excited about it.” Read More

Click Here for more photos from St. Peter's Prep Practice.