2024-2025 Scholar-Athlete Awards
Selected from South Jersey Chapter member schools within the competitive West Jersey Football League, these Scholar-Athletes have been chosen by their coaches and peers for their achievements academically and athletically
List of Services
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Absegami - Michael Torres OL/DLList Item 1
Leader on the field and in the classroom.
- 4-year Varisty Letter Winner
- 4.25 GPA
- Colleges Interested In Attending: Multiple
Coach: Lamont Robinson
Athletic Director: Mark Prince Jr.
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Arthur P. Schalick - Reggie Allen, Jr RB/SList Item 2
He was the backbone of our program the last four years and is a student-athlete of high character.
- 4-year Varsity Letter Winner
- 3.30 GPA
- Clubs, Activities, Interests: Track and Field, Basketball
- College Interested In Attending: Urinsus College, Alvernia College, Eastern College, Wilkes University
Coach: Mike Wilson
Athletic Director: Douglas Volovar
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Atlantic City - Khajuan Roseborough QB/DBList Item 3
Khajuan is a student athlete of unbelievable character and poise. He leads by example and treats everyone, no matter the skill level with respect and dignity. He is also a fierce competitor.
- 3-year Varsity Letter Winner
- 3.50 GPA
- Clubs, Activities, Interests: Captian on the Basketball Team
- College Interested In Attending: Khajuan will be continuing his collegiate football career at West Chester University
Coach: Keenan Wright
Athletic Cirector: Chris Ford
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Atlantic County Institute of Technology - Josh Goldsmith TE/LB
He was one of the only three seniors on the team to start every game and play every snap. He will always be the cornerstone of Atlantic Tech football.
- 1-year Varsity Letter Winner
- 3.16 GPA
- Clubs, Activities, Interests: Strength and Conditioning
- College Interestef In Attending: Rutgers University
Coach: Chris Mancuso
Athletic Director: Rob Wagner
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Barnegat - Cole Toddings TE/LB
4 year letter winner. Two year captain. Great leader both on the field and in the school building. Very high character kid. Represents everything Barnegat football is about.
- 4-year Varsity Letter Winner
- 3.5912 GPA
- Clubs, Activities, Interests: National Honor Society, Interact Club, Basketball, Football
- College Interested In Attending: Cole will be continuing his collegiate football career at Colegate University (FCS)
Coach: Paul Covine
Athletic Director: John Germano
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Bridgeton - Thalibdeen Bowman OL/DLList Item 4
Thalibdeen Bowman has been a 4 year starter for the Bridgeton Football Team. He embodies what leadership, accountability, and hardwork looks like. He defines being a student athlete while maintaining the demands of 3 sports and academics. He is a gentle giant off the field but a force on the offensive and defensive line on the football field. He has always been a respectful young man and has been a great captain and leader for the young football players on the Bridgeton Team. He can be counted on for meeting the expectations set in place to be a successful member of the football team and will leave a legacy of leadership behind for the younger athletes to model. He will be a valuable asset to any team he chooses to join and we wish him nothing but the best of luck with the next chapter of his life.
- 4-year Varsity Letter Winner
- 3.25 GPA
- Clubs, Activities, Interests: Thalibdeen is a member of the Winter and Spring Track Team as well as the African American Club
- College Interested In Attending: North Carolina A&T, Penn State University
Coach: Dominique Williams
Athletic Director: Cynthia Wilks
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Buena Regional - Brian Passamante OL/DL
Brian is the ideal representation of what it means to be a student athlete. He is a stand out multi sport athlete who also serves as the captain of the football team. In addition he is one of the top students in his graduating class. Brian is an excellent young man with a bright future.
- 4-year Varisty Letter Winner
- 4.421 GPA
- Clubs, Activities, Interests: Football, Wrestling, Baseball, Student Council, National Honor Society, Buena Ambassadors, Peer Leadership
- College Interested In Attending: Salisbury University, TCNJ, Montclair University
Coach: Kyle Klein
Athletic Director: Doug Foglein
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Cedar Creek - Aiden Jinks OL/DL
One word to describe Aiden Jinks is resilient. Aiden is a humble leader who anchored both our offensive and defensive lines over the past three years. He is a respected leader amongst his peers through both the effort and perseverance he has displayed over his career.
- 3-year Varsity Letter Winner
- 102.80 GPA
- College Interested In Attending: Aiden will be attending Rowan University
Coach: Jim Melody
Athletic Director: Jim Erney
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Clearview Regional - Trevor Durkin OT/DT
This was a very difficult year for the Pioneers. Trevor was one of the seniors that stuck this season out. He has embodied courage, sacrifice, resilience, and toughness. These are just a few of the words that come to mind about him this year. His commitment to his teammates and coaches is nothing short of perfect. Trevor is a humble young man, never knowing what he really is deserving of. As a team captain, this is everything you want. Trevor has represented the green and gold through and through with the greatest of pride. As a senior Trevor was able to play with his freshman QB brother. He took protecting Benny to the next degree - making sure he was doing the right things and picking him up after every tackle. As a player, a leader, a mentor, and an older brother - we could not have asked for a better qualified young man than Trevor. It was truly my honor to be your coach. Keep standing for what you believe in and keep representing the Clearview with pride!
- 3-year Varsity Letter Winner
- 91.88 GPA
- Clubs, Activities, Interests: Football Team Captain, Basketball starter for the past 2 years, volunteer work at the Clearview Youth Football Organization
- College Interested In Attending: Syracuse University, Penn State University
Coach: Stephen Duncan
Athletic Director: Steve Asay
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Cumberland Regional - Mark Sooy QB/DB
Committed to being the best version of himself both on and off the field. Hardworking and unselfish.
- 3-year Varisty Letter Winner
- 3.40 GPA
- Clubs, Activities, Interests: Baseball, Senior Mentoring, STEM Academy
- College Interested In Attending: Rowan University, Albright College, FDU-Florham
Coach: Jason Coombs
Athletic Director: Collin Lewis
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Delsea Regional - Daniel Russo QB/LB
Daniel is a Four Year Varsity Starter that has played Quarterback, Running Back, and Linebacker. He is most proud of helping his team win a State Championship in 2023 and being named Team Captain. Daniel has run for 4,278 yards with 56 Touchdowns, passed for 1,884 yards with 16 touchdowns, 248 tackles, and 5 interceptions over his High School career. He has been named All Conference, All South Jersey, All State, Super 100, Maxwell Award winner as well as a State Champion. Daniel will be continuing his education and sports career at UPenn. He will majoring in business while attending the Wharton Business School at the University of Pennsylvania.
- 4-year Varsity Letter Winner
- 3.91 GPA
- Clubs, Activities, Interests: SGA, National Honor Society, Interact Club
- College Interested In Attending: Daniel will be continuing his collegiate football career at the Univerity of Pennsylvania while attending the Wharton Business School
Coach: Jason Volpe
Athletic Director: Ken Schoudt
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Egg Harbor Township - Matt Kaelble OL/DL
"Matt Kaelble was not only a dominant force on the field for Egg Harbor Township (EHT) football but also a dedicated scholar-athlete who led by example. His commitment to excellence extended beyond the game, as he balanced the demands of academics and athletics with discipline and perseverance. As a standout offensive lineman and defensive tackle, his strength and skill earned him multiple honors, including First Team All-Division and First Team All-County selections. However, it was his work ethic and leadership that truly set him apart, making him a role model for his teammates. Off the field, Matt exemplified the qualities of a true student-athlete, prioritizing his education while excelling in football. His selection to the Phil Simms North vs. South All-Star Game reflected not only his athletic ability but also his character and leadership. Matt's ability to juggle academic responsibilities with the rigors of football demonstrated his time management skills and determination—qualities that inspired those around him. His presence in the locker room and classroom alike reinforced the importance of hard work, discipline, and teamwork, making him an invaluable teammate and a shining example of what it means to be a scholar-athlete." - Rob Davis: EHT HFC
- 3-year Varsity Letter Winner
- 3.20 GPA
- Clubs, Activities, Interests: Football, Winter and Spring Track
- College Interested In Attending: Undecided but will make a decision within the next 2 weeks
Coach: Rob Davis
Athletic Director: Kevin Rutledge
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Hammonton - Anthony Liakhnovich OL/DL
Anthony's relentlessness in the classroom and on the field have helped him emerge as a leader in the program. Anthony has worked hard over his high school career to improve his ability on the field, clearing the path for him to have opportunities after high school. In addition to excelling in football, Anthony is also one of the top shot-put throwers in the state. His leadership and accomplishments will be missed.
- 2-year Varsity Letter Winner
- 4.869 GPA
- Clubs, Activities, Interests: Track and Field
- College Interested In Attending: Princeton University
Coach: Pat Lancetta
Athletic Director: Chris Sacco
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Holy Spirit - Matt Abbott TE/WR
Matt Abbott is everything you would want in a student-athlete. He was selfless and always put the team first. A true leader. He did whatever was asked of him and did it without hesitation, all while being a top student in the classroom.
- 3-year Varsity Letter Winner
- 5.1429 GPA
- Clubs, Activities, Interests: National Honor Society, Started his own business in the Spring of 2024
- College Interested In Attending: Rutgers University, Stockton University
Coach: Andrew DiPasquale
Athletic Director: Steve Normane
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Lower Cape May Regional - Zac Castellano CB/WR
- 3-year Varsity Letter Winner
- 3.80 GPA
Coach: Lance Bailey
Athletic Director: Eric Simonsen
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Mainland Regional - Daniel DeFeo OL/DL
Dan was a 4-year starter and was selected as a Team Captain for the 2024 season. Dan has been a 3-year member of our Football Leadership Committee and has placed on our 1,000lb record board for 3 straight years. Dan epitomizes all that is good with high school football - a great leader, player, student and most importantly, a great young man. He is a role model for our younger players because he is everything that we hope a Mustang Football player portrays. Dan was a key member of our 3 straight sectional championships; 2 state finals appearances and the 2023 state championship.
- 4-year Varsity Letter Winner
- 4.893 GPA
- Clubs, Activities, Interests: National Honor Society
- College Interested In Attending: Daniel will be continuing his collegiate football career at Montclair State University
Coach: Chuck Smith
Athletic Director: Bill Kern
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Middle Township - Micah McAnaney QB/WR/CB
Micah is an exceptional student who brings his aptitude and wit to the gridiron. He is a role model to his teammates and has always been a true student of the game. His skillset and work ethic will carry him to great heights in the future.
- 2-year Varsity Letter Winner
- 4.92 GPA
- Clubs, Activities, Interests: National Honor Society, Key Club, Varsity Lacrosse
- College Interested In Attending: Ursinus College
Coach: Gavin Liepe
Athletic Director: Joshua McCarty
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Millville - Jamal Wallace Jr. RB/LB
Jamal has been a 4 year starter who has played a pivotal role in winning 2 state titles and 3 sectional titles! Jamal has always been a hard working high character young man that his teammates and coaches could always rely on! In his senior season he lead the way on the ground with 1020 rushing yards.
- 4-year Varsity Letter Winner
- 3.82 GPA
- Clubs, Activities, Interests: Art, Sewing
- College Interested In Attending: University of Charleston
Coach: Bert Ayala
Athletic Director: Dave LaGamba
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Oakcrest - Evan McMahan OL/DL
Evan has always had an academic mindset since the first day I met him. Every decision from him and his family was always what benefited Evan academically. Emails from his father explaining he may miss practice because he'll have homework from his college courses made it REAL for me! Although he never missed practice, I still admired the fact he was already in college courses during his SR year. And I dont mean taking college courses , I mean being on an actual college campus while his high school teammates were at Oakcrest. Evan will be missed dearly and I have no doubt he will be doing something that will benefit us all in the future!
- 3-year Varsity Letter Winner
- 4.00 GPA
- Clubs, Activities, Interests: ROTC
- College Interested In Attending: Eastern University, Montclair University, Lycoming College
Coach: Mike Forest
Athletic Director: Dave Bennett
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Ocean City - Clifford Dirkes OL/DL
Cliff exemplifies what it means to be a student athlete. He is the complete package in and out of the classroom. He is such a well rounded young man. We are extremely proud of Cliff’s accomplishments and look forward to seeing him continuing to do great things in school, our community and into his future.
- 3-year Varsity Letter Winner
- 4.35 GPA
- Clubs, Activities, Interests: Football, Wrestling, Track, Concert Band, Jazz Band, Boy Scouts, NHS, Science Club
- College Interested In Attending: TCNJ, Coast Guard Academy, Kutztown University, Gettysburg College
Coach: Kevin Smith
Athletic Director: Mike Pellegrino
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Penns Grove - Knowledge Young WR/DB
Knowledge has been a model student-athlete on and off the field. His communication, leadership, hard work, and ability is unmatched. Knowledge entered his senior year with 130 credits. Knowledge will graduate with 150 high school credits. In addition, Knowledge will earn an Associate’s Degree prior to earning a High School Diploma. Sky is the limit for Knowledge.
- 4-year Varsity Letter Winner
- 4.00 GPA
- Clubs, Activities, Interests: National Honor Society, Penns Grove Early College High School Program, Football Indoor and Outdoor Track
- College Interested In Attending: Undecided
Coach: Mark MacCarone
Athletic Director: Anwar Golden
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Pinelands - Heath Nelson WR/LB
One of the best young men I have coached in 25 years, a leader on and off the field who never let anything slow him down or not accomplish his goals!
- 3-year Varsity Letter Winner
- 4.80 GPA
- Clubs, Activities, Interests: Volleyball, Track, SAW Club, Woodshop Club
- College Interested In Attending: Navy "A" School
Coach: John Tierney
Athletic Director: William Sundermann
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Pleasantville - Julius Townsel WR/DB
Julius is a student athlete that always does the right thing. He is a leader and is a respectful young man. He was a captain for our team.
- 4-year Varsity Letter Winner
- 3.00 GPA
- Clubs, Activities, Interests: Football, Track, National Honor Society
- College Interested In Attending: Undecided
Coach: Malachi Timberlake
Athletic Director: Matthew Zachariades
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Southern Regional - Keegan Foote RB/K OLB/P
Keegan is an excellent representative of our football program, athletic program and school. Keegan is a member of both the National Honor Society and Language Honor Society at Southern. As the Rams kicker Keegan scored 41 points this past season, 6 out 8 FG and 23 out of 25 extra points. As on OLB, Keegan had 41 tackles on the season, a scak for sfety, blocked punt and 3 fumble recoveries. Keegan played a major role in Southern's Shore Conference "B" South Divisional Championship and NJSIAA state Group V Playoff berth.
- 3-year Varsity Letter Winner
- 101.94 GPA
- Clubs, Activities, Interests: National Honor Society, Class President, Language Honor Society, Stafford School District Sportsmanship Day, Dr. Seuss Read Across America
- College Interested In Attending: Undecided
Coach: Chuck Donohue, Sr.
Athletic Director: Chuck Donohue, Jr.
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St. Augustine Prep - Matthew Bonczek LB
Matt Bonczek is one of the greatest student-atthleteshletes I have encountered in all my years as a Head Football Coach. He excelled in the classroom and on the football team. He was a 4yr starter at LB and led the team in tackles. He was selected Team Captain by his peers and did a great job serving in that capacity. Matt will be attending Marist University in the fall where he will continue his football career.
- 4-year Varsity Letter Winner
- 4.00 GPA
- Clubs, Activities, Interests: Matt is an avid weight lifter at St. Augustine and also speed trains with Dave Klemic where he served as a volunteer coach in the youth flag football leage Dave operates
- College Interested In Attending: Matt will be continuing his collegiate football career at Marist University
Coach: Pete Lancetta
Athletic Director: Mike Rizzo
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Vineland - Noah Cruz TE/LB
Noah Cruz has been selected by his head football coach as the NFF Scholar-Athlete recipient, recognizing his exceptional leadership both on and off the field. His relentless work ethic, dedication to his team, and genuine kindness toward all students and staff at Vineland High School make him a true role model in the school community.
4-year Varsity Letter Winner
3.50 GPA
Clubs, Activities, Interests: Football, Track and Field, Weight Lifting
College Interested In Attending: East Stroudsberg University
Coach: Jose Guzman
Athletic Director: Sylvester Cifaloglio
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West Deptford - Logan Rivell RB/DB
Top Vote Getter for Captain in 2024 - unselfish player who worked to contribute to the team in any manner needed. Battled through two consecutive season ending injuries to become a Two-Way Starter as a Senior. Played multiple positions at a high level in helping the program return to the playoffs. Recognized on the Touchdown Club of South Jersey All-Academic Team and received West Deptford Football’s “Dick Butkus Defensive Back of the Year Award Winner” this past season.
- 2-year Varsity Letter Winner
- 3.60 GPA
- Clubs, Activities, Interests: Extended School Year Service, Football Parents Club Service
- College Interested In Attending: Accepted to Rowan University
Coach: John R. Emel
Athletic Director: Keith Williams