2025-2026 NFFSJ 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: Lucas DeGemmaro K/PList Item 1
Best Kicker I have had a chance to coach over the past 13 years. He was our Academic award winner and 2 time all conference kicker
- 4-year Varisty Letter Winner
- 4.00 GPA
- Clubs, Activities, Interests: Football, Basketball & Lacrosse
- Colleges Interested In Attending: Villanova Universty, Long Island University, University of New Haven
Coach: Lamont Robinson
Athletic Director: Mark Prince Jr.
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Arthur P. Schalick: Jase Volovar WR/DBList Item 2
Jase was selected because of the way he goes about his business every single day. He is a fantastic young man, a strong student, and exactly the type of young man you want representing your program. He never complains, is always willing to learn, and is extremely coachable. Jase does things the right way, and that’s why he’s earned this recognition. Jase also received the teams Green & Gold Award as well as The Unsung Hero Award.
- 3-year Varsity Letter Winner
- 3.30 GPA
- Clubs, Activities, Interests: Basketball, Track and Field, Ski Club
- College Interested In Attending: Rowan University, Eastern University, Albright College, Dickinson College
Coach: Mike Wilson
Athletic Director: Douglas Volovar
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Atlantic City: Jayden Hemphill RB/LBList Item 3
Jayden is a pillar in our program because he exemplifies what AC Football is all about. He’s a tireless worker on and off the field and a fantastic teammate. Through tough times and adversity, Jayden remains steadfast on the objective no matter the score. I can’t think of another player more deserving of this award.
- 4-year Varsity Letter Winner
- 3.97 GPA
- Clubs, Activities, Interests: Social Media Club, Student Ambassador
- College Interested In Attending: Undecided
Coach: Keenan Wright
Athletic Cirector: Chris Ford
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Atlantic County Institute of Technology: David Nixon-Matos RB/LB
David Nixon Matos was a senior captain for the Atlantic Tech football team. He displayed determination and excellence on the field and in the classroom as a scholar athlete. He displayed tremendous character and brilliant leadership skills while starting a new football program. This scholarship represents the bridge between his dedication on the turf and his future aspirations. David holds every defensive school record at Atlantic Tech and was part of every single win in school's history.
- 2-year Varsity Letter Winner
- 2.94 GPA
- Clubs, Activities, Interests: David is a regular fixture in our weightroom
- College Interestef In Attending: Delaware Valley University, Ursinus College, Montclair State University
Coach: Chris Mancuso
Athletic Director: Rob Wagner
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Barnegat: Jack Haviland QB/DB
Amazing young man, Triple sport athlete, Team Captain in multiple sports true leader, very coachable,. He represents everything you want in a high school football player leading your program. Looking forward to playing at the next level.
- 3-year Varsity Letter Winner
- 3.80 GPA
- Clubs, Activities, Interests: Football, Basketball & Baseball, Honor Society, Interact Club,
- College Interested In Attending: TCNJ University
Coach: Paul Covine
Athletic Director: John Germano
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Bridgeton: Dante' Howell QBList Item 4
Dante' is currently our Valedictorian of Bridgeton High School. He will also graduate with his Associates Degree from Rowan College of SJ. Dante' has been the ideal model student athlete walking the hallways as a leader by true example. He never misses practices or games all while maintaining the highest academic honors in the Senior Class. He is kind, willing to help others especially the underclassmen, and can be counted on to create a positive environment for the 3 sports that he participates in. The healthy balance of academics, sports, and family is what really characterize who Dante is. He is the hardest working student in everything he does and has a smile on his face while doing so. We will miss him but we know his leadership legacy will be left behind for the underclassmen to model and follow.
- 4-year Varsity Letter Winner
- 4.57 GPA
- Clubs, Activities, Interests: African American Club, Winter Track, Spring Track, Church Group, Omega Psi Phi Mentor Group
- College Interested In Attending: Undecided
Coach: Dominique Williams
Athletic Director: Cynthia Wilks
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Buena Regional: Anthony Muzzarelli RB/LB
Anthony was selected to represent Buena Football because he consistently embodies what it means to be a Chief. A four-year starter and two-time captain, he has earned the trust and respect of his teammates through his work ethic, accountability, and leadership. Anthony leads by example on and off the field and is highly respected by his teachers, coaches, and peers for his character, commitment, and integrity.
- 4-year Varisty Letter Winner
- 3.80 GPA
- Clubs, Activities, Interests: Hunting
- College Interested In Attending: Rowan University
Coach: Kyle Klein
Athletic Director: Doug Foglein
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Cedar Creek: Jajuan McIntosh-Ward LB
Jajuan McIntosh-Ward is a First Team All-Conference selection and team captain who consistently demonstrated the leadership, accountability, and toughness that were instrumental in Cedar Creek High School’s state championship run. He led by example on and off the field, earning the respect of teammates and coaches while setting the standard for our program. In the classroom and throughout the building, Jajuan is a model student whose character, work ethic, and integrity make him a truly deserving nominee for the National Football Foundation.
- 2-year Varsity Letter Winner
- 87.00 GPA
- Clubs, Activities, Interests: Literary Magazine, Game Design & Development
- College Interested In Attending: Temple University, West Chester University, Monmouth University, Rutgers University - New Brunswick
Coach: Jim Melody
Athletic Director: Jim Erney
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Clearview Regional: Brody Selfridge OL/DL
Brody was one of only two seniors this year. His leadership helped shaped the new era of Clearview Regional Football. We can not thank Brody enough for his hard work on and off the field. We wish him the best in his future endeavors.
- 2-year Varsity Letter Winner
- 3.10 GPA
- Clubs, Activities, Interests: Weight Lifting
- College Interested In Attending: Rowan University, Stevenson University, Fairleigh Dickinson University, Wilkes University, Delaware Valley University
Coach: Stephen Duncan
Athletic Director: Steve Asay
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Cumberland Regional: Richard Pierce RB/DL
One of the most reliable young men you will ever meet. Takes care of business in the classroom and on the field. RJ epitomizes what it means to be a student athlete.
- 4-year Varisty Letter Winner
- 3.78 GPA
- Clubs, Activities, Interests: Weight lifting
- College Interested In Attending: Rowan University, Stevenson University, Fairleigh Dickinson University, Wilkes University, Delaware Valley University
Coach: Jason Coombs
Athletic Director: Collin Lewis
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Delsea Regional: Choyer Hamm DT/DE
Choyer is an extremely hard worker. His dedication to the program and leadership were an integral part of our season’s success. Choyer was our 2025 “All In” Player of the Year award winner, an honor given to the most dedicated player on the team..
- 2-year Varsity Letter Winner
- 3.20 GPA
- Clubs, Activities, Interests: N/A
- College Interested In Attending: McDaniel College
Coach: Jason Volpe
Athletic Director: Ken Schoudt
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Egg Harbor Township: Louis Correa TE/FB & DE
Louis Correa is a tremendous example of what it means to be a true Egg Harbor Township Scholar-Athlete. A senior at EHT with a 3.2 GPA, Louis consistently balances the demands of academics while competing in three varsity sports—football, basketball, and track. On the football field, he has been a reliable and versatile contributor on both sides of the ball, playing Defensive End and Tight End/Fullback. During the 2025 season, Louis recorded 56 tackles, 4 tackles for loss, 2 QB pressures, 1 sack, 1 forced fumble, and 1 fumble recovery, production that reflects his toughness, discipline, and football IQ. What truly separates Louis, however, is his leadership and character on and off the field. He is a relentless worker who never complains, leads by example, and brings a positive, team-first mindset to everything he does. Whether in the classroom, the weight room, or at practice, Louis approaches each day with purpose and consistency. He is respected by his teammates and coaches alike for his work ethic, accountability, and willingness to do whatever is needed for the good of the team. Louis Correa represents Egg Harbor Township High School with pride, and we are proud to recognize him as our Scholar Athlete: Rob Davis Egg Harbor Twp HFC
- 2-year Varsity Letter Winner
- 3.30 GPA
- Clubs, Activities, Interests: Football, Basketball, Track
- College Interested In Attending: Undecided
Coach: Rob Davis
Athletic Director: Kevin Rutledge
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Hammonton: Daniel Herman OL/DL
Dan is a smart, hardworking young man, who will undoubtedly be successful in the future. Dan is a program kid who has been involved in many activities within the school and is an excellent representative of the football program.
- 1-year Varsity Letter Winner
- 3.67 GPA
- Clubs, Activities, Interests: National Honor Society, Science League, Student Council, Math Club, Live It Be It Club, Physics Olympics, Chess Club, Interact Club
- College Interested In Attending: Rowan University
Coach: Pat Lancetta
Athletic Director: Chris Sacco
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Holy Spirit: Ty Costabile QB
Ty was the definition of a leader. He constantly did anything that was ever asked of him, continually made everyone around him better, all while maintaining a 4.5 GPA. He was as tough as it gets, not missing a single snap in his 3 years as a starter, and is the new record holder in several quarterback statistics at Holy Spirit. They don't make them like Ty anymore, and we are certainly going to miss him, but excited for him to continue at the next level.
- 4-year Varsity Letter Winner
- 4.50 GPA
- Clubs, Activities, Interests: Baseball, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Chess Club, National Honor Society
- College Interested In Attending: Rowan University
Coach: Andrew DiPasquale
Athletic Director: Steve Normane
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Long Branch: Nathan Pessoa OT/TE & DE/OLB
This student-athlete consistently demonstrated a strong work ethic and team-first mentality throughout the season. He approached every practice with focus and intensity, always willing to listen, learn, and apply coaching feedback. His versatility stood out, as he selflessly played multiple positions when the team needed him, often stepping into unfamiliar roles without complaint. Through his effort, discipline, and adaptability, he proved to be a dependable and valuable member of the football program
- 2-year Varsity Letter Winner
- 91.63 GPA
- Clubs, Activities, Interests: N/A
- College Interested In Attending: N/A
Coach: Ben Woolley
Athletic Director: Jason Corley
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Lower Cape May Regional: Will Garoh OL/DL
William Garoh is the epitome of what it means to be a varsity football player. One the field Will was a dominant force for the Caper Tigers as he was a 4 year starter on the offensive line. In his 4 years he was a: 3x First Team WJFL All Star Selection 2x South Jersey Honorable Mention Offensive Lineman Selection Will was also a Captain for the Caper Tigers. He was a part of two Divisional Champions teams and the first ever playoff win in school history (102 years of football). As a student Will is even more exceptional with a 4.0 GPA and part of the National Honors Society. Will leads by example in the classroom and on the practice field. He has grown to become a great competitor and fantastic leader amongst his peers.
- 4-year Varsity Letter Winner
- 4.00 GPA
- Clubs, Activities, Interests: Natioanl Honors Society, Key Club, Athletic Advisory Committee, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Wrestling
- College Interested In Attending: Gettysburg College
Coach: Lance Bailey
Athletic Director: Eric Simonsen
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Mainland Regional: Michael Piergiovanni OL/DL
Ultimate team player. Exemplifies the term scholar athlete. Mike was a team leader on the field, in the weight room and in the classroom. A great example for the player in our program to emulate on a daily basis.
- 3-year Varsity Letter Winner
- 5.357 GPA
- Clubs, Activities, Interests: College Board AP Scholar with Honor, AP Scholar with Distinction, obtained the AP Capstone Diploma, and made their National Recognition Program, Qualified for Mainland's Summa Cum Laude. Volunteer services: coach and announce for the Northfield Cardinals, volunteer at the Northfield Community School, and volunteer for miscellaneous tasks for the National Honors Society
- College Interested In Attending: University of Pennsylvania; Johns Hopkins University
Coach: Chuck Smith
Athletic Director: Bill Kern
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Middle Township: Noah Nagle TE/OLB
Face of our program. Natural leader and great human being. Will go on to make Middle Township extremely proud.
- 4-year Varsity Letter Winner
- 4.00 GPA
- Clubs, Activities, Interests: Wrestling, Track & Field
- College Interested In Attending: University of Pennsylvania, Franklin & Marshall College
Coach: Gavin Liepe
Athletic Director: Joshua McCarty
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Millville: Isaiah Johnson OL
Isaiah moved from Florida to Millville in the middle of his freshmen year. He instantly showed he deserved to be on the field and was a 3 year starter! Isaiah was always reliable and a big part of the team’s success. Isaiah was a leader on and off the field and a player of great character! I never had to worry about isaiah doing the what was needed in the classroom or on the field.
- 3-year Varsity Letter Winner
- 3.20 GPA
- Clubs, Activities, Interests: Enjoys reading books
- College Interested In Attending: Rowan University
Coach: Bert Ayala
Athletic Director: Dave LaGamba
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Oakcrest: Donovan Linthicum RB/LB
Donnie has maintained great grades while doing amazing on the field. He has been a team captain and MVP since he arrived at Oakcrest. Leading the state in tackels during his career has been an amazing accomplishment. Although that is something Donnie will never forget , its maintaining these great accomplishments while still handeling whats most important and thats the classroom. Very proud of this young man and how he has represented our school these last few years.
- 3-year Varsity Letter Winner
- 3.70 GPA
- Clubs, Activities, Interests: Loves to Draw
- College Interested In Attending: Villanova University
Coach: Mike Forest
Athletic Director: Dave Bennett
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Ocean City: Eric Reiff OL/DL
Eric personifies what it means to be a student athlete. Eric is one of the most accountable student athletes in our building and represents OCHS as best as anyone can. Eric was a 1st team WJFL OL for us this season and he helped us qualify for our ninth straight post season appearance. Eric will be playing football at Dickinson College.
- 3-year Varsity Letter Winner
- 4.50 GPA
- Clubs, Activities, Interests: School Ambassador
- College Interested In Attending: Dickinson College
Coach: Kevin Smith
Athletic Director: Mike Pellegrino
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Penns Grove: Messiah Allah RB/DB
Messiah Allah has always been a student-athlete that you can count on to promote the characteristics and mantra of Penns Grove High School: Suit-up (Prepare for school in accordance with our dress code and professional dress), Show up. (Arrive to school on time and daily) and Step up. (Step up regarding their academics, leadership, and achievement). Although, Messiah may not have the many athletic accolades, will be an 8-Sport Varsity letter recipient in football, basketball, winter track, and spring track. Messiah currently maintains a 34.0 GPA, and is a member of the PGHS National Honor Society, and member of the Penns Grove High School Early college High School, and he is scheduled to earn his Associates Degree, (Liberal Arts), in May of 2026. Messiah has proven to be an amazing scholar-athlete at Penns Grove High School.
- 4-year Varsity Letter Winner
- 4.00 GPA
- Clubs, Activities, Interests: National Honor Society, Black History Club
- College Interested In Attending: Kean University
Coach: Mark MacCarone
Athletic Director: Anwar Golden
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Pennsville Memorial: Rylan Hardy RB/DB
While not the most vocal, Rylan has always been a leader in both the classroom and on the field. Rylan's hard work and dedication has paid off and he has excelled in both areas.
- 4-year Varsity Letter Winner
- 3.90 GPA
- Clubs, Activities, Interests: Band
- College Interested In Attending: University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, North Carolina State University, University of Virginia, Rutgers University - New Brunswick
Coach: Mike Healy
Athletic Director: Jamison Thomas
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Pinelands Regional: Logan Minor OL/DE
Logan Minor has been a senior captain and three-year varsity starter for the Pinelands Regional Wildcats, making an impact on both the offensive and defensive lines. He’s the kind of player every coach values—tough, dependable, and a true leader by example. Logan also serves as a Student Ambassador, representing our school with pride both on and off the field.
Logan has been nominated for the 2025 USA Football Heart of a Giant Award. Having been diagnosed with autism at a young age, he has used football as a way to grow, channeling his energy into something positive while overcoming challenges and continuing to develop as both a player and a young man.
- 3-year Varsity Letter Winner
- 3.90 GPA
- Clubs, Activities, Interests: AP coursework, Student Ambasador, Amercian Youth Football (AYF)
- College Interested In Attending: Logan will continue his education in the field of criminal justice
Coach: John Tierney
Athletic Director: MaryColleen Foley
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Pleasantville: Jeremiah Wright OL/DL
Jeremiah is a program guy that is extremely valuable for us. He does the roles that are needed.He is also a part of our Early College Program.
- 4-year Varsity Letter Winner
- 5.359 GPA
- Clubs, Activities, Interests: Football, Diaspra, Math Club, Track,
- College Interested In Attending: Kean University
Coach: Malachi Timberlake
Athletic Director: Matthew Zachariades
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St. Augustine Prep: Ethan Muller OL
Ethan arrived as a freshman and was one of reasons for that success. He has maintained a 92 average and earned a Full Scholarship to attend Long Island U.
- 3-year Varsity Letter Winner
- 92.00 GPA
- Clubs, Activities, Interests: Ethan enjoys hunting and fishing; he also works as an electrician and is very good at it.
- College Interested In Attending: Ethan was awarded a full scholarship to Long Island University, where he will continue playing football while earning his college degree
Coach: Pete Lancetta
Athletic Director: Mike Rizzo
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Southern Regional: Joe Spina OL/DL
Tremendous atusent athlete and an excellent representative of our school and community. Some of the best leadership skills we have had in our school district that is evident by his atttude, preperation and work ethic.
- 3-year Varsity Letter Winner
- 4.00 GPA
- Clubs, Activities, Interests: National Honor Society, Shore Conference Student Ambassador, Class President, STYLE, AYF Youth Football Coach, Team Captain, Track and Field
- College Interested In Attending: TCNJ University, Montclair State University, Stevenson University
Coach: Chuck Donohue, Sr.
Athletic Director: Chuck Donohue, Jr.
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Triton Regional: Chika Ogbuokiri TE/DE
Chika has done everything that is asked of him and more, as both a student and an athlete. From my viewpoint as a coach, he is a tireless worker, dependable, and respectful. He has assumed a significant role within our Football program by mentoring younger players and leading by example. He takes on all challenges with great enthusiasm, and he is constantly trying to better both himself and those around him, which is a true testament to his desire to succeed and lead by example.
- 3-year Varsity Letter Winner
- 3.32 GPA
- Clubs, Activities, Interests: African American Club, Track, Basketball, Football
- College Interested In Attending: Rutgers University - New Brunswick
Coach: Domenic Tomeo
Athletic Director: Joel McKenna
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Vineland: Zachary Zavis OL
Zach Zavis is a selfless teammate who always does what needs to be done, when it needs to be done, and to the best of his ability. As a cornerstone of the Vineland offensive line, Zach played all five positions without hesitation, always putting the team’s needs first. Throughout his time in the program, Zach has been committed to becoming the best version of himself, serving as a role model for younger teammates, excelling in the classroom, and consistently showing kindness and respect to others. When speaking with his coaches, Zach has shared his interest in becoming a football coach in the future, which reflects his passion for the game and his desire to give back to others.NEED BIO
- 3-year Varsity Letter Winner
- 4.10GPA
- Clubs, Activities, Interests: Football
- College Interested In Attending: Undecided
Coach: Jose Guzman
Athletic Director: Sylvester Cifaloglio
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West Deptford: Brady Cobb QB/K
Brady is a true student-athlete. 3-year starter at Quarterback and 2-year Captain. As smart a player I have had the privilege to coach. His improvement over the last three years has coincided with our program going from 3-8 in 2023 to 9-2 in 2025. Despite playing 3 sports he went above and beyond to make all team related workouts and invest everything in to making himself the best player he can be. Excited to see what his future holds because of his strong work ethic and desire to challenge himself.
- 3-year Varsity Letter Winner
- 4.00 GPA
- Clubs, Activities, Interests: National Honor Society, DECA, STEM Club, Gifted & Talented, Key Club
- College Interested In Attending: Cornell University, Johns Hopkins University, Bentley University
Coach: John R. Emel
Athletic Director: Keith Williams
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Wildwood: Liam Carmel OL/LB
Liam has been a four year starter on both sides of the ball for the Wildwood Warriors. He is a two-time 1st team all conference LB, two-time team captain, and two-time team MVP. He's the heart and soul of the Warrior program.
- 4-year Varsity Letter Winner
- 3.79 GPA
- Clubs, Activities, Interests: National Honors Society
- College Interested In Attending: McDaniel College, Ursinus College, Gettysburg College, Franklin & Marshall College
Coach: Ken Loomis
Athletic Director: Tom Kelly
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Woodstown: Lucas Fulmer WR/DB
It has been an absolute honor to coach Lucas, a young man who consistently demonstrates leadership, resilience, and character. After suffering an injury in Week 5, Lucas remained a vocal leader and constant presence at practice, supporting his teammates and continuing to set the tone for our program. His commitment to the team never wavered, and his actions showed true selflessness and dedication. Lucas exemplifies what it means to be a true student-athlete. He maintains a 4.0 GPA, earned a 1400 SAT score, and is a proud member of the National Honor Society. His discipline, work ethic, and ability to excel both academically and athletically make him highly deserving of this scholarship, and I am confident he will continue to achieve great success beyond high school.
- 3-year Varsity Letter Winner
- 4.76 GPA
- Clubs, Activities, Interests: Woodstown High School Basball & Basketball Teams
- College Interested In Attending: Clemson University, University of South Carolina, University of Tennessee - Knoxville, Rowan University
Coach: Frank Trautz
Athletic Director: Joseph Ursino