2019 Shore Sports Network All-Shore Football Teams
Shore Sports Network is proud to unveil its 2019 All-Shore teams and season-ending award winners featuring the top performers from the 2019 Shore Conference football season.
Scroll down for bios and pictures of the First Team All-Shore selections and write-ups on the second- and third-team selections.
FIRST TEAM
Offense
QB – Jake Kazanowsky, Jr., Toms River North
The Shore Sports Network Offensive Player of the Year, Kazanowsky threw for 2,144 yards and 23 touchdowns to lead the Shore in both categories. He piloted a Toms River North offense that averaged 32.5 points per game and 350 yards per game as the Mariners went 9-2, won the American Division championship, reached the semifinals of the Central Jersey Group 5 state playoffs and finished No. 2 in the SSN Top 10. He was also selected as the American Division Offensive Player of the Year.
QB – Ryan Clark, Sr., Donovan Catholic
One of the top dual-threat quarterbacks in New Jersey, Clark ran for 1,179 yards and 17 touchdowns on 8.7 yards per carry and threw for 1,014 yards and nine touchdowns to lead Donovan Catholic to one of the best seasons in program history. Clark was the only quarterback in the Shore to run and throw for 1,000 yards and his rushing total was the seventh-most in the conference. Clark was selected as the Liberty Division Offensive Player of the Year and his play helped Donovan go 9-2, win the Liberty Division championship, reach the Non-Public Group 3 semifinals and finish No. 8 in the SSN Top 10.
RB – Trebor Pena, Sr., Ocean
The Shore Sports Network’s Most Valuable Player, Pena was dynamite on offense, defense and special teams to lead Ocean in its return to championship form. Pena led the Shore Conference in rushing with 1,550 yards and 19 touchdowns on an incredible average of 11.4 yards per carry and added two receiving touchdowns. On defense as a safety, Pena made 66 tackles and intercepted six passes, one of which he returned for a touchdown. He also returned a punt for a touchdown and was a dangerous kick returner. His 23 total touchdowns and 138 points tied for the most in the Shore Conference. His efforts were instrumental in Ocean going 8-1 and winning the Patriot Division title. Pena will continue his career at Syracuse University.
RB – Malik Ingram, Sr., Mater Dei Prep
With the power of a freight train and the feet of a ballerina, Ingram was one of the best running backs in New Jersey and the two-time First Team All-Shore selection turned in a great senior season to conclude a stellar career. Ingram was second in the Shore in rushing with 1,480 yards and led the conference with 21 rushing touchdowns on an average of 7.9 yards per carry. He added two touchdown receptions to tie for the conference lead in scoring with 23 touchdowns and 138 points. Ingram ran for over 100 yards in all three postseason games, including a career-high 313 yards and four touchdowns against Pope John and 147 yards and a touchdown against a stout Red Bank Catholic defense. Ingram also had a monster 310-yard, four-touchdown game against St. John Vianney. His play helped Mater Dei average 28.7 points per game, the fifth-best mark in the Shore, while going 8-4, reaching the Non-Public Group 3 state final and finishing No. 3 in the SSN Top 10. Ingram has FBS scholarship offers from Navy and Army plus offers from FCS schools Colgate, Indiana State and Central Connecticut State.
RB – Will Towns, Jr., Jackson Memorial
After sharing the backfield as a sophomore Towns took over as the Jaguars starting running back this season and literally ran with it, rushing for 1,372 yards and 12 touchdowns to finish third in the Shore Conference in rushing. He had six 100-yard games, including a career-high 242 yards and four touchdowns in a win over Brick and 232 yards and four touchdowns in a win over Freehold. Towns’ play helped Jackson go 8-3, reach the Central Jersey Group 4 state sectional final and finish No. 4 in the SSN Top 10. Towns holds a scholarship offer from the University of Massachusetts.
TE – Kevin Bauman, Sr., Red Bank Catholic
One of the top tight end recruits in the country, the 6-foot-5, 240-pound Bauman caught 15 passes for 272 yards and three touchdowns and was a dominant run blocker for the Caseys. He also had an outstanding year at defensive end with 11.5 sacks, 20 tackles for loss, 64 total tackles, 3 pass breakups and 2 forced fumbles for a defense that allowed just 12.9 points per game. A three-time First Team All-Shore selection, Bauman will take his talents to the big stage next year at the University of Notre Dame.
WR – Jayon Farrar, Jr., Long Branch
Farrar led the Shore Conference in receptions with 52 and totaled 601 yards and three touchdowns to cap a superb junior season. His signature game came in a win over Middletown South where he caught seven passes for 146 yards. He had four catches for 88 yards and two touchdowns against Toms River North and had 11 catches in a game against Middletown North. Farrar also threw a touchdown pass, had two interceptions on defense and returned two kickoffs for touchdowns.
WR – Zach Goodale, Jr., Toms River North
A big-play machine, Goodale averaged 28 yards per receptions with 21 catches for 587 yards and seven touchdowns, which tied for the most in the Shore, for an offense that averaged 32.5 points per game and 350 yards per game. His played helped Toms River North go 9-2, win the American Division title, reach the Central Jersey Group 5 semifinals and finish No. 2 in the SSN Top 10.
WR – Zach Browne, Jr., Toms River North
Part of a deep group of receivers at Toms River North, Browne caught 34 passes for 542 yards and five touchdowns for an offense that averaged 32.5 points per game and 350 yards per game. His play helped the Mariners go 9-2, win the American Division championship, reach the Central Jersey Group 5 semifinals and finish No. 2 in the SSN Top 10.
OL – Grant Puharic, Jr., Wall
The top lineman for the No. 1 team in the Shore, Puharic led a stout unit in the trenches as Wall ran for 2,363 yards and 30 touchdowns and threw for 1,311 yards and 15 touchdowns. The Crimson Knights were eighth in the Shore in scoring, averaging 26.6 points per game. Puharic was also a starter for a stingy Wall defense and recorded 45 tackles, 2 sacks and 2 fumble recoveries. His play helped Wall set a school record with a 12-1 record as the Knights won the Colonial Division title and the Central Jersey Group 3 state sectional championship
OL – Cam McNair, Jr., Donovan Catholic
McNair (No. 64 above) was an imposing figure up front with his 6-foot-5, 325-pound frame and his skills paved the way for Donovan Catholic’s explosive offense to lead the Shore Conference at 36.2 points per game. McNair’s blocking was a major reason the Griffins ran for 2,908 yards and 44 touchdowns, averaging 7.8 yards per attempt and 264 yards per game. The Griffins also averaged 356 yards per game. Donovan had one of the best seasons in program history with a 9-2 record, the Liberty Division championship, a trip to the Non-Public Group 3 state semifinals and the No. 8 ranking in the final SSN Top 10. McNair holds scholarship offers from West Virginia, Pittsburgh and Rutgers.
OL – Najae Hallenbeck, Sr., Toms River North
A hulking tackle at 6-foot-7 and 310 pounds, Hallenbeck was the top lineman for a Toms River North offense that was third in the Shore averaging 32.5 points per game. His blocking paved the way for Offensive Player of the Year Jake Kazanowsky to throw for 2,144 yards and 23 touchdowns and the Mariners to rush for 1,711 yards. Hallenbeck’s play helped Toms River North go 9-2, win the American Division title, reach the Central Jersey Group 5 semifinals and finish No. 2 in the SSN Top 10. Hallenbeck has offers from Rutgers, Central Michigan and Massachusetts and interest from several other FBS schools.
OL – Tajay Passmore, Sr., Mater Dei Prep
The 6-foot-3, 280-pound guard was the top lineman on a Mater Dei team that averaged 28.7 points per game and had a potent rushing offense. His blocking paved the way for the Seraphs to rush for 2,757 yards and 31 touchdowns on an average of 8.5 yards per carry and 230 yards per game. His play up front helped Malik Ingram rush for 1,480 yards and 21 touchdowns and quarterback Alex Brown throw for 1,716 yards and 15 touchdowns as Mater Dei averaged 373 yards per game. He was a big reason why the Seraphs reached the Non-Public Group 3 state final, the team’s fourth straight appearance in a state championship game, and finished No. 3 in the SSN Top 10.
OL – James Smith, Jr., Rumson-Fair Haven
The latest standout offensive lineman for Rumson, Smith (79) led the way up front for a Bulldogs team that reached the Central Jersey Group 3 final for the seventh straight season. His blocking led a line comprised of five first-year starters as Rumson ran for 1,222 yards and 14 touchdowns and threw for 1,191 yard and 11 touchdowns against a grueling schedule. Rumson finished No. 5 in the SSN Top 10.
UT – Casey Larkin, Jr., Wall
Larkin was an indispensable player for Wall and did a little bit of everything to lead the way in a historic season. Larkin ran for 1,038 yards and 12 touchdowns on an average of 6.5 yards per carry and posted a team-leading 19 receptions for 388 yards and three touchdowns. As a defensive back, Larkin made 41 tackles with three interceptions and pick-6. He was sorely missed in a Group 3 Regional Championship loss to Woodrow Wilson after suffering a concussion against Manasquan on Thanksgiving. Larkin’s play was a major reason why Wall set a school record with 12 wins and only one defeat, won the Colonial Division championship, captured the Central Jersey Group 3 state sectional title and finished No. 1 in the SSN Top 10. Larkin was also selected as the Colonial Division co-Offensive Player of the Year with teammate Logan Peters.
UT – Logan Peters, Jr., Wall
A great two-way player for the No. 1 Crimson Knights, Peters was one of the top quarterbacks in the Shore Conference and also a standout defensive back. He threw for 1,301 yards on 62 percent passing with 15 touchdowns and just two interceptions. He also ran for 630 yards and 10 touchdowns. As a safety, Peters made 43 tackles with a team-leading four interceptions, including a memorable game-clinching interception when Wall took down Mater Dei Prep, 14-7, to take over the top spot in the Shore. Peters was an integral contributor to a Wall team that set a school record for wins (12-1), claimed the Colonial Division title and won the Central Jersey Group 3 state sectional title. Peters was also the Colonial Division co-Offensive Player of the Year with teammate Casey Larkin.
K – Vincenzo Rea, Jr., Manalapan
Rea tied for the Shore Conference lead with six field goals and also tied for the longest kick with a 43-yard field goal. He also converted 22 of 24 extra points and was 6-for-8 on field goals. He added 13 touchbacks on kickoffs and as a punter dropped seven punts inside the 20-yard line.
Defense
DL – Collin McCarthy, Sr., Jackson Memorial
The Shore Sports Network Defensive Player of the Year, the 6-foot-7, 240-pound McCarthy had another dominant season with a conference-high 18 sacks plus a ridiculous 46 tackles for loss among his 85 total tackles. He posted season-highs in a win over St. John Vianney with five sacks and eight tackles for loss and had one sack and four tackles for loss in a win over Central Jersey Group 3 finalist Rumson-Fair Haven. He was unblockable in a state playoff win over Moorestown with four sacks, five tackles for loss, a forced fumble that Jackson returned for a touchdown and a fumble recovery. McCarthy had at least two tackles for loss in every game and recorded sacks in seven of 11 games. He finished his career with 34 sacks, 104 tackles for loss, 250 total tackles, four forced fumbles and three blocked kicks. His play helped Jackson Memorial go 8-3, reach the Central Jersey Group 4 sectional final and finish No. 4 in the SSN Top 10. A two-time First Team All-Shore selection, McCarthy will continue his career at the University of Connecticut.
DL – Jake Louro, Jr., Red Bank Catholic
Louro had a breakout season to help Red Bank Catholic remain one of the best defensive teams in the Shore Conference, posting four sacks and 24 tackles for loss with 57 total stops from his defensive tackle position. RBC allowed just 12.9 points per game with one shutout and held five of its nine opponents to 10 points or less. Louro’s play helped the Caseys finish No. 7 in the SSN Top 10.
DL – Dominick Giudice, Jr., Mater Dei Prep
After a solid sophomore season, Giudice had a breakout year to blossom into a dominating edge rusher. The 6-foot-4, 240-pound junior racked up 17.5 sacks, the second-most in the Shore Conference, to go along with 14 tackles for loss, 44 total tackles and 26 quarterback pressures for a Mater Dei defense that was fifth in the Shore allowing just 11.3 points per game while recording four shutouts. One of his best games of the season came in the Non-Public Group 3 state final when he recorded three sacks in a loss to DePaul. His play helped the Seraphs reach their fourth straight state final and finish No. 3 in the SSN Top 10.
DL – Khurram Simpson, Sr., Mater Dei Prep
Mater Dei had two menacing players at defensive end with Simpson also turning in an outstanding season. The 6-foot-2, 240-pound senior recorded 14.5 sacks with eight tackles for loss and 25 quarterback pressures for a Seraphs defense that allowed just 11.3 points per game and posted four shutouts. Mater Dei reached the Non-Public Group 3 state final, making it four straight years the Seraphs played in a state championship game, and finished No. 3 in the SSN Top 10. Simpson will continue his career at Division 1 FCS powerhouse James Madison.
DL – Ian Ackerman, Sr., Wall
Ackerman was the senior leader of one of the best defenses in the Shore Conference and helped guide the way in a memorable championship season for Wall. Ackerman made 79 tackles, 47 of which were solo, with 3 sacks, 6 tackles for loss and 2 fumble recoveries for a Crimson Knights unit that was second in the conference allowing just 9.5 points per game with one shutout. Ackerman was also a standout on the offensive line for a team that ran for 2,363 yards and 30 touchdowns. His play helped Wall go 12-1 with a school record for victories, win the Colonial Division title, hoist the Central Jersey Group 3 state sectional title and finish No. 1 in the SSN Top 10.
LB – Gordon Forsyth, Sr., Rumson-Fair Haven
Forsyth moved from the defensive line to linebacker for his senior season and flourished with 144 tackles, 7 tackles for loss, 1 sack, 1 interception and 1 forced fumble for a defense that allowed 15.6 points per game playing arguably the most difficult schedule in Shore Conference history. Forsyth had double-digit tackles in 10 of 11 games, including a career-high 17 tackles against Middletown South, 16 tackles in an overtime win over Manalapan and 16 tackles against Wall in the Central Jersey Group 3 final. His play helped Rumson reach its seventh consecutive sectional championship game and finish No. 5 in the SSN Top 10. He will continue his career at Dickinson College.
LB – Charlie Gordinier, Sr., Red Bank Catholic
A steadying presence and the leader of one of the Shore Conference’s best defenses, Gordinier made a team-high 89 tackles with 11 tackles for loss, 3 sacks, 2 forced fumbles and 2 pass breakups. RBC allowed just 12.9 points per game with one shutout and held five of its nine opponents to 10 points or less. Gordinier was also a standout tight end and his two-way efforts helped the Caseys finish No. 7 in the SSN Top 10. Gordinier will continue his career at Boston College.
LB – Charlie Sasso, So., Wall
Sasso had the rare distinction of starting as a freshman and there was certainly no sophomore slump for the standout inside linebacker. Sasso was a complete all-around linebacker who could play the run and pass and also rush the quarterback. He was fifth in the Shore with 127 tackles, 73 of which were solo stops, along with 3 sacks, 5 tackles for loss, 3 interceptions, 3 fumble recoveries and 1 forced fumble. Wall’s defense was second in the Shore allowing just 9.5 points per game with one shutout and his play helped the Crimson Knights go 12-1 with a school record for wins, claim the Colonial Division title, win the Central Jersey Group 3 state sectional title and finish No. 1 in the SSN Top 10.
LB – Quamire Green, Jr., Donovan Catholic
The leader of the No. 1 scoring defense in the Shore, Green’s third year as a starting inside linebacker saw him make a team-high 102 tackles along with 4 sacks, 8 tackles for loss and a fumble recovery. Donovan allowed a conference-low 96 points in 11 games, an average of just 8.7 per game, with six shutouts. Green’s play helped the Griffins go 9-2, win the Liberty Division title, reach the Non-Public Group 3 state semifinals and finish No. 8 in the SSN Top 10.
DB – Clarence Lewis, Sr., Mater Dei Prep
A two-time First Team All-Shore selection, the Notre-Dame bound Lewis was a lockdown defensive back who intercepted three passes and made 53 tackles for a defense that allowed just 11.3 points per game and recorded four shutouts. Lewis was also sensational on offense as a wide receiver with 39 catches for a conference-high 636 yards and five touchdowns. His played helped Mater Dei go 8-4, reach the Non-Public Group 3 state final and finish No. 3 in the SSN Top 10.
DB – Jermaine Corbett, Sr., Long Branch
Corbett was the 2018 SSN Offensive Player of the Year when he led New Jersey in rushing and this season showcased his versatility with a remarkable year on defense. The American Division Defensive Player of the Year, Corbett led the Shore with seven interceptions and was third in tackles with 133. He added 13 pass breakups, 11 tackles for loss, 2 forced fumbles, 2 fumble recoveries and 2 defensive touchdowns. As a running back, Corbett ran for 924 yards and six touchdowns and caught 16 passes for 233 yards and three touchdowns. He also returned a kickoff for a touchdown. A two-time First Team All-Shore selection, Corbett holds scholarship offers from Rutgers and Monmouth.
DB – Jayden Bellamy, So., St. John Vianney
A top-flight cornerback who could blanket an opponents’ top receiver, Bellamy intercepted four passes, added four pass breakups and had one defensive touchdown. He was also a standout receiver with 25 catches for 367 yard and two touchdowns.
DB – Ryan Ruane, Jr., Rumson-Fair Haven
A rangy safety who played well against both the run and pass, Ruane totaled 93 tackles and intercepted four passes for a Rumson defense that was 11th in the Shore allowing 15.6 points per game. He had 13 tackles and an interception against Middletown South and posted seven tackles, one interception and one sack against Toms River North. His play helped Rumson reach a seventh consecutive state sectional final and finish No. 5 in the SSN Top 10.
UT – Matt Spalletta, Sr., Toms River North
A three-way force for the Mariners, Spalletta impacted the game on offense, defense and special teams and was one of the most valuable players in the Shore. As a linebacker, Spalletta made 100 tackles with 25.5 tackles for loss, 6 sacks, 32 QB pressures, an interception and 2 pass breakups. As a wildcat quarterback, Spalletta ran for 277 yards and eight touchdowns and on special teams, he blocked four kicks and returned a kickoff for a touchdown. His play helped the Mariners go 9-2, win the American Division title, reach the Central Jersey Group 5 semifinals and finish No. 2 in the SSN Top 10.
UT – Chris Lotito, Sr., Middletown South
A versatile two-way player for the Eagles, Lotito had 56 tackles with 3 interceptions, 5 forced fumbles, 3 pass breakups, 1 sack and 1 fumble recovery as a defensive back. As a running back, Lotito ran for 626 yards and seven touchdowns, had one touchdown catch and also threw two touchdown passes. His play helped Middletown South reach the Central Jersey Group 4 semifinals and finish No. 9 in the SSN Top 10. Also a baseball standout, Lotito is signed with Seton Hall University to continue his career on the diamond.
P – Jake McKown, Sr., Jackson Memorial
McKown averaged 41.1 yards per punt with two inside the 20 and a long of 53 for the Jaguars. As a starting wide receiver he caught 24 passes for 326 yards and one touchdown and on defense recorded 28 tackles with three tackles for loss, one interception and five pass breakups. His play helped Jackson go 8-3, reach the Central Jersey Group 4 final and finish No. 4 in the SSN Top 10.
SECOND TEAM
Offense
QB – Jack Chamberlain, Sr., Red Bank
Chamberlain threw for 1,166 yards and 13 touchdowns and ran for a team-high 717 yards and 11 touchdowns to lead the Bucs to a 7-4 record and a playoff appearance.
QB – Mike Goodall, Sr., Toms River East
Goodall ran for a team-leading 877 yards and eight touchdowns and threw for 520 yards and three touchdowns to lead Toms River East to its best season in a decade. The Raiders won the Freedom Division title and reached the Central Jersey Group 4 semifinals.
RB – Jaiden Brown, So., Southern
Brown ran for 1,242 yards and 14 touchdowns with seven 100-yard games as the Rams went 7-3 and captured the Constitution Division title. He also had three interceptions on defense as a linebacker.
RB – Romeo Thomas, Sr., Colts Neck
Thomas ran for 1,282 yards and 19 touchdowns on 6.8 yards per carry and added a touchdown reception to help the Cougars go 8-2 for their first winning season since 2013.
RB – Andre Johnson, Sr., Manalapan
Johnson ran for 1,017 yards and 13 touchdowns for a balanced Manalapan offense as the Braves finished No. 6 in the SSN Top 10.
TE – Dominick Palumbo, Sr., Marlboro
Palumbo was a big-play tight end averaging 24.9 yards per reception with 20 catches for 497 yards and five touchdowns. On defense, he added 48 tackles with 10 tackles for loss, 8 sacks, 3 pass breakups, 1 forced fumble and 1 fumble recovery.
TE – Tyler Ochojski, So., Freehold
Ochojski caught 23 passes for 324 yards and 4 touchdowns and also had a great year on defense with 67 tackles, 11.5 sacks and 13 tackles for loss.
WR – Dominick Jacob, Sr., Toms River North
Jacob caught 25 passes for 410 yards and 5 touchdowns along with a 2-point conversion catch as the Mariners went 9-2, won the American Division title and reached the Central Jersey Group 5 semifinals.
WR – Matt Spencer, Sr., Middletown North
Spencer was fifth in the Shore in receiving with 34 catches for 525 yards and 7 touchdowns. He also had 23 tackles and four pass breakups as a defensive back and returned one kickoff for a touchdown.
WR – Makai Brown-Jones, Jr., Asbury Park
Brown-Jones was second in the Shore in receiving with 29 catches for 624 yards and five touchdowns, averaging 21.5 yards per catch. He also had one touchdown run. On defense, Brown-Jones had two interceptions, one of which he returned for a touchdown.
OL – Brian Fischer, Sr., Ocean
Fischer’s play up front helped Ocean rush for 2,200 yards and 29 touchdowns on an average of 245 yards per game. The Spartans were second in the Shore in scoring at 35.2 points per game. Fischer’s blocking also paved the way for SSN MVP Trebor Pena to rush for 1,550 yards and 19 touchdowns on an average of 11.4 yards per carry.
OL – Jack Wolter, Sr., Wall
A standout lineman for the No. 1 team in the Shore, Wolter’s play up front helped Wall rush for 2,363 yards and 30 touchdowns and pass for 1,311 yards and 15 touchdowns. The Crimson Knights were eighth in the Shore in scoring at 26.6 points per game. Wolter also played on the defensive line and made 30 tackles with two tackles for loss. His play helped Wall set a school record with 12 wins, win the Colonial Division title and hoist the Central Jersey Group 3 state sectional title.
OL – Tom Buxton, Sr., Donovan Catholic
Buxton was a standout in the trenches for a Griffins offense that led the Shore Conference in scoring at 36.2 points per game. His blocking helped Donovan run for 2,908 yards and 44 touchdowns, averaging 7.8 yards per attempt and 264 yards per game. The Griffins had one of the best seasons in program history with a 9-2 record, the Liberty Division championship, an appearance in the Non-Public Group 3 semifinals and the No. 8 ranking in the final SSN Top 10.
OL – Tracey Taylor, Sr., Long Branch
A two-time Second Team All-Shore selection, Taylor was the top lineman for a Long Branch offense that rushed for 1,322 yards and 11 touchdowns and threw for 1,415 yards and 12 touchdowns.
OL – Mateusz Zielinski, Sr., Manalapan
Zielinski’s play up front cleared the way for Manalapan to rush for 1,223 yards and 16 touchdowns and throw for 1,030 yards and eight touchdowns playing in the stout American Division.
UT – Isaiah Noguera, Sr., Mater Dei Prep
Noguera did a little bit of everything for the Non-Public Group 3 finalists with 303 yards rushing and 3 touchdowns, 18 catches for 365 yards and 2 touchdowns and 35 tackles and 4 interceptions on defense.
UT – Akhi Barksdale, Jr., Brick Memorial
Barksdale had a great all-around season as the Mustangs’ top offensive weapon with 542 yards rushing and 8 touchdowns on an incredible 13.4 yards per carry, plus 28 receptions for 342 yards and one touchdown. He added three pass breakups, an interception, a sack and a defensive touchdown.
K – Keaon Torres, Sr., Donovan Catholic
Torres led all Shore Conference kickers in scoring with 61 total points for an offense that was No. 1 in the Shore at 36.2 points per game. Torres kicked three field goals with a long of 42 yards and converted 52 of 56 extra points. His reliability helped the Griffins go 9-2, win the Liberty Division title, reach the Non-Public Group 3 semifinals and finish No. 8 in the SSN Top 10.
Defense
DL – Dominick Brogna, So., Donovan Catholic
Brogna became a force along the defensive line during his sophomore year and was a key component of the No. 1 scoring defense in the Shore allowing just 8.7 points per game. As a defensive tackle, Brogna made 65 tackles with 21 tackles for loss, 4 sacks and 2 pass deflections. His play helped the Griffins go 9-2, win the Liberty Division title, reach the Non-Public Group 3 semifinals and finish No. 8 in the SSN Top 10.
DL – Chris Aldrich, Sr., Donovan Catholic
Aldrich recorded 71 tackles with 16 tackles for loss and a team-leading six sacks as the Griffins had the No. 1 scoring defense in the Shore allowing just 8.7 points per game. He was a big reason Donovan had one of the best seasons in school history with a 9-2 record, the Liberty Division championship, an appearance in the Non-Public Group 3 semifinals and the No. 8 ranking in the final SSN Top 10.
DL – Jason Sherlock, Sr., Point Beach
The National Division Defensive Player of the Year helped spark the Garnet Gulls to rebound from a winless season to go 7-3 and reach the playoffs. Sherlock made 102 tackles with 9 sacks, 30 tackles for loss, 2 forced fumbles, 2 fumble recoveries and 1 interception. Sherlock was also Point Beach’s leading receiver with 22 catches for 238 yards and 2 touchdowns.
DL – Von Factor, Jr., Rumson-Fair Haven
A disruptive player along Rumson’s defensive line, Factor made 79 tackles with 3 sacks and 9 tackles for loss to help the Bulldogs reach their seventh straight state sectional championship game.
DL – John Costanza, Sr., Brick
Costanza made 104 tackles with 5.5 sacks, 15 tackles for loss, 2 forced fumbles and 2 pass breakups. He will continue his career at the University of Maine.
LB – Eddie Farrell, Sr., Middletown North
Voted as the Constitution Division Defensive Player of the Year, Farrell was second in the Shore with 134 tackles (52 solo) along with 5.5 sacks, 11 tackles for loss, 9 hurries, 2 pass breakups, 2 fumble recoveries and 1 forced fumble.
LB – Colin Riley, So., Wall
After seeing time as a freshman, Riley flourished in his first full year as a starter as one of the best edge rushers in the Shore. He was seventh in the Shore with 11 sacks to go along with 69 tackles, 7 tackles for loss, 1 fumble recovery and 1 forced fumble. Wall was second in the Shore in scoring defense at 9.5 points per game with one shutout in a special season where it went 12-1, won the Colonial Division title, claimed the Central Jersey Group 3 state sectional title and finished No. 1 in the SSN Top 10.
LB – Brian Zapata, Sr., Jackson Memorial
A versatile playmaking linebacker, Zapata made 100 tackles with 23 tackles for loss, 9 sacks, 1 interception, 3 fumble recoveries, 2 pass breakups and 1 forced fumble to help the Jaguars go 8-3, reach the Central Jersey Group 4 championship game and finish No. 4 in the SSN Top 10.
LB – Matt Benedetti, Sr., Manalapan
Benedetti made 47 tackles with 8 tackles for loss, 6 sacks and 4 pass breakups for a defense that allowed 17.4 points per game against a difficult schedule. As a tight end, Benedetti caught 18 passes for 201 yards and five touchdowns.
LB – Jimmy Celentano, Sr., Jackson Liberty
The Freedom Division Defensive Player of the Year, Celentano made 100 tackles with 12 tackles for loss 1 sack, 1 forced fumble and 1 interception which he returned for a touchdown. He was also Liberty’s running back and ran for 604 yards and six touchdowns.
DB – Kevin Degnan, Sr., Red Bank Catholic
Degnan made 56 tackles with 2 sacks, 5 pass breakups and 6 tackles for loss for an RBC defense that was sixth in the Shore allowing just 12.9 points per game. On offense, Degnan posted 359 yards from scrimmage and 3 touchdowns on 30 touches.
DB – Nick Ferrogine, Jr., Red Bank
Ferrogine made 68 tackles with 5 tackles for loss, 1 sack, 1 interception, 1 fumble recovery and 1 blocked punt for the Bucs. He also caught 16 passes for 275 yards and two touchdowns.
DB – Dale McNally, Sr., Wall
McNally made 44 tackles and pulled down 2 interceptions with 1 sack, 3 tackles for loss and 1 fumble recovery for the top-ranked Crimson Knights, who were second in the Shore allowing just 9.5 points per game. Wall had a historic season with a 12-1 record, the Colonial Division title and the Central Jersey Group 3 state sectional championship.
DB – Ray Carlson, Sr., Toms River North
The Mariners’ top defensive back pulled down 5 interceptions with 62 tackles, 8 pass breakups, 3 tackles for loss and 1 fumble recovery. He also caught 9 passes for 255 yards and 3 touchdowns as the Mariners went 9-2, won the American Division title and reached the Central Jersey Group 5 semifinals.
UT – Yusuf Ahmed, Jr., Toms River East
Ahmed recorded a team-high 90 tackles with eight tackles for loss, one sack and one forced fumble and also ran for 510 yards and six touchdowns to help the Raiders to their best season in a decade. Toms River East went 9-2, won the Freedom Division championship and reached the Central Jersey Group 4 semifinals.
UT – Danny Fiore, Sr., Raritan
An injury limited Fiore to just seven games but his production over that span was enough for him to be named Patriot Division Defensive Player of the Year. Fiore made 43 tackles with 2 interceptions, 1 forced fumble, 1 fumble recovery and 1 blocked punt. As a running back, Fiore ran for 325 yards and 4 touchdowns on an average of 12 yards per carry and also had a receiving touchdown.
THIRD TEAM
Offense
QB – Kyle Davidson, Sr., Long Branch
In his one and only season as Long Branch’s quarterback after moving to the Shore from California, Davidson threw for 1,338 yards and 11 touchdowns to help the Green Wave reach the South Jersey Group 4 semifinals.
QB – Alex Brown, So., Mater Dei Prep
Brown was second in the Shore in passing with 1,715 yards on 63 percent completions with 15 touchdowns. Mater Dei’s offense was fifth in the Shore averaging 28.7 points per game and Brown’s play helped the Seraphs go 8-4 and reach the Non-Public Group 3 state final.
QB - Anthony Albanese, Sr., Brick Memorial - FINAL VOTE WINNER
Albanese threw for 1,210 yards and nine touchdowns with only one interception and added 506 yards rushing and four touchdowns. He was a First Team All-Division selection in the Constitution Division.
RB – Jarrod Pruitt, Sr., Toms River North
Pruitt ran for 950 yards and 11 touchdowns despite missing nearly two full games as the Mariners went 9-2, won the American Division title and reached the Central Jersey Group 5 semifinals.
RB – Kavon Chambers, Sr., St. John Vianney
Chambers ran for 781 yard and 7 touchdowns on an average of 7.8 yards per carry, added 137 receiving yard and also threw a touchdown pass.
RB – Shane McLaughlin, Jr., Shore
McLaughlin missed a portion of the season with a collarbone injury but still put up very good numbers in just seven games. He ran for 672 yards and 12 touchdowns on an average of 6.4 yards per carry and caught 14 passes for 227 yards and 4 touchdowns.
RB – Elijah Jules, Sr., Red Bank Catholic
Jules ran for 638 yards and 6 touchdowns on an average of 7.1 yards per carry and added 176 receiving yards to help RBC finish No. 7 in the SSN Top 10.
RB - Nasir Calhoun, Sr., Donovan Catholic - FINAL VOTE WINNER
Calhoun ran for 755 yards and 12 touchdowns on an average of 6.8 yards per carry for a Donovan offense that was No. 1 in the Shore in scoring at 36.2 points per game and ran for a total of 2,908 yards and 44 touchdowns. He was a First Team All-Division selection in the Liberty Division as the Griffins went 9-2, won the division title and reached the Non-Public Group 3 semifinals.
TE – Isaiah Gerena, Sr., Barnegat
Gerena made a huge impact after transferring from Holy Spirit, making 31 receptions for 399 yards in eight games. He also had a touchdown run. On defense, Gerena made 43 tackles with 7 tackles for loss, 1 sack, 3 pass breakups and 1 forced fumble.
TE – Ethan Capone, Jr., Donovan Catholic
The Griffins’ leading receiver caught 17 passes for 263 yards and four touchdowns for an offense that was No. 1 in the Shore averaging 36.2 points per game. His play helped Donovan go 9-2, win the Liberty Division title, reach the Non-Public Group 3 semifinals and finish No. 8 in the SSN Top 10.
WR – Patrick Jamin, Jr., Rumson-Fair Haven
Jamin caught 35 passes for 451 yards and 3 touchdowns to help Rumson reach its seventh straight state sectional final and finish No. 5 in the SSN Top 10.
WR – Jaylen Smith, Sr., Raritan
Smith caught 19 passes for 434 yards and 5 touchdowns on an average of 22.8 yards per reception for a Raritan offense that was fourth in the Shore scoring 30.6 points per game.
WR – Zack Novak, Sr., Jackson Memorial
Novak came on strong in the second half of the season and finished with 19 receptions for 397 yards and 6 touchdowns to help the Jaguars go 8-3, reach the Central Jersey Group 4 final and finish No. 4 in the SSN Top 10. Novak is committed to Villanova University for track and field.
WR – Willie Gross, Sr., Neptune
Gross averaged 27.9 yards per catch with 12 receptions for 335 yards and six touchdowns for a Neptune team that was sixth in the Shore in scoring at 27.6 points per game.
WR - Khalil Garrett-Dogan, Sr., Neptune - FINAL VOTE WINNER
Garrett-Dogan caught 30 passes for 410 yards and 3 touchdowns for a Neptune offense that was sixth in the Shore in scoring at 27.6 points per game. The Scarlet Fliers went 6-4 and finished second in the Freedom Division. Garrett-Dorgan was a First Team All-Division selection by the coaches.
OL – Sean Laverty, Sr., Jackson Memorial
Laverty was a two-way standout in the trenches for Jackson and on offense paved the way for the Jaguars to rush for 2,246 yards and 19 touchdowns. On defense, Laverty recorded 42 tackles with 9 sacks, 15 tackles for loss and 1 interception. His play helped Jackson go 8-3, reach the Central Jersey Group 4 final and finish No. 4 in the SSN Top 10.
OL – Thomas Lidondici, Sr., Colts Neck
Lidondici helped pave the way for an offense that ran for 2,094 yards and 29 touchdowns and was seventh in the Shore Conference averaging 27 points per game.
OL – Tom Mielnikiewicz, Sr., Middletown South
Mielnikiewicz was the top lineman for an Eagles team that ran for 2,000 yards and 20 touchdowns and threw for 929 yards and 9 touchdowns en route to reaching the Central Jersey Group 4 semifinals and finishing No. 9 in the SSN Top 10.
OL – Kevin Lind, Sr., Raritan
Lind was the top lineman for a Rockets offense that was fourth in the Shore Conference averaging 30.6 points per game. Raritan ran for 2,070 yards and 31 touchdowns and threw for 916 yards and 8 touchdowns.
OL – Griffin Jackstadt, Sr., Barnegat
Jackstadt was a standout two-way lineman for the Bengals who helped them rush for 1,531 yards and 18 touchdowns. On defense, Jackstadt made 80 tackles with 20 tackles for loss, 2 sacks, 12 hurries, 5 pass knockdowns and 1 blocked punt. He will continue his career in the Ivy League at the University of Pennsylvania.
OL - Jeremy VanMeter, Sr., Neptune - FINAL VOTE WINNER
A First Team All-Division selection in the Freedom Division VanMeter was the top lineman on a balanced Scarlet Fliers offense that was sixth in the Shore averaging 27.6 points per game.
UT – Mikal Braithwaite, So., Keansburg
The National Division Offensive Player of the Year, Braithwaite threw for 965 yard and 9 touchdowns, ran for 537 yards and 4 touchdowns and recorded 36 tackles with 1 interception on defense. His play helped the Titans reach the playoffs and post their first winning season since 2007.
UT – TJ Paturzo, Sr., Lakewood
Paturzo was fourth in the Shore in rushing with 1,287 yards and 13 touchdowns.
UT – Sha’Kim Shuler, Jr., Freehold
Shuler threw for 926 yards and eight touchdowns, ran for 687 yards and 11 touchdowns and caught six passes for 79 yards.
UT - Steven Cassidy, Sr., Marlboro - FINAL VOTE WINNER
Cassidy caught 26 passes for 313 yards and 4 touchdowns as an H-back and recorded 75 tackles with 2 sacks, 2 tackles for loss, 1 pass breakups and 1 forced fumble as a linebacker. He was a First Team All-Division selection in the Constitution Division.
K – George Kaiafas, Sr., Point Beach
Kaiafas tied for the Shore Conference lead with six field goals, including a long of 33, and was 17 for 18 on extra points. He had three game-winning field goals in victories over Keansburg and Keyport (twice), helping the Garnet Gulls rebound from a winless season to go 7-3 and reach the playoffs.
K - Cade Torres, Jr., Shore Regional - FINAL VOTE WINNER
Torres converted 22 of 27 extra points and connected on four field goals with a long for 40 yards. He also averaged 35 yards per punt with a long of 50 and two punts downed inside the 20-yard line. Torres was the All-Division kicker in the Patriot Division.
Defense
DL – Devon Meza, Sr., Keyport
Meza made 68 tackles with 3 sacks and 11 tackles for the loss to lead the Red Raiders.
DL – John Foreman, Sr., Manasquan
Foreman was a Liberty Division All-Division selection by the coaches and spearheaded a Manasquan defense that was seventh in the Shore allowing 14.1 points per game.
DL – Quinn Pavlinetz, Sr., Holmdel
Pavlinetz made 48 tackles with 4 sacks, 8 tackles for loss, 2 pass knockdowns, 1 fumble recovery and 1 blocked kick to help the Hornets post a third straight winning season for the first time since 1986-1988.
DL – Aiden Moriarty, So., Rumson-Fair Haven
The sophomore defensive end was one of the top sack artists in the Shore with 13.5 sacks to go along with 70 tackles as the Bulldogs reached their seventh consecutive sectional final and finished No. 5 in the SSN Top 10.
DL – Imeer Johnson, Jr., Central
Johnson was a defensive force for the Golden Eagles with 49 tackles, 8 sacks, 17 tackles for loss, 3 fumble recoveries, 2 forced fumbles, 1 safety and 3 defensive touchdowns.
DL - Patrick Frawley, Jr., Point Boro - FINAL VOTE WINNER
Frawley made 52 tackles with 5 sacks, 3 forced fumbles and 2 fumble recoveries for the Panthers and was a First Team All-Division selection in the Patriot Division.
LB – Matt Krellin, Sr., Middletown South
Krellin made 60 tackles with 7 tackles for loss, 2 sacks, 1 interception and one forced fumble. As a wide receiver, Krellin led the Eagles with 29 catches for 488 yards and 5 touchdowns. Middletown South reached the Central Jersey Group 4 semifinals and finished No. 9 in the SSN Top 10.
LB – Dominick Nocero, Jr., Donovan Catholic
A standout linebacker for the No. 1 scoring defense in the Shore (8.7 ppg), Nocero made 78 tackles with 11 tackles for loss, 5 sacks, 2 forced fumbles and 1 fumble recovery. He also had a punt return for a touchdown. His play helped the Griffins go 9-2, win the Liberty Division title, reach the Non-Public Group 3 semifinals and finish No. 8 in the SSN Top 10.
LB – Julian Young, Jr., St. John Vianney
Young made a team-high 72 tackles with 1 sack, 3 tackles for loss and was a Colonial Division All-Division selection by the coaches.
LB – Vinny Palmieri, Sr., Toms River North
The leader of Toms River North’s defense, Palmieri made 99 tackles with 8 tackles for loss, 2 sacks and a fumble recovery as the Mariners went 9-2, won the American Division title and reached the Central Jersey Group 5 semifinals.
LB - Dean Terry, Sr., Wall - FINAL VOTE WINNER
One of several standouts for the No. 1 Crimson Knights, Terry made 95 tackles with 3 sacks, 8 tackles for loss, 1 safety and 1 fumble recovery on a defense that was second in the Shore allowing just 9.5 points per game. Wall went 12-1 to set a school record for wins, won the Colonial Division title and captured the Central Jersey Group 3 state sectional championship.
DB – Terry Carlstrom, Sr., Shore
Carlstrom was among the conference leaders with five interceptions and was also a deep threat as a receiver with a team-leading 28 catches for 469 yards and 4 touchdowns.
DB – Anthony Borriello, Jr., Red Bank Catholic
Borriello pulled down a team-high four interceptions and added 51 tackles, 3 tackles for loss and 1 forced fumble. He also split time at quarterback, rushing for 241 yards and 2 touchdowns and throwing for 151 yards and 1 touchdown.
DB – Justin Reilly, Sr., Manalapan
Reilly totaled 37 tackles with 3 tackles for loss and two pass breakups for a Braves team that yielded 17.4 points per game against a tough American Division slate.
DB – Matt DeSarno, Sr., Wall
DeSarno was a key two-way player for the No. 1 Crimson Knights with 38 tackles, one sack and two forced fumbles for a defense that was second in the Shore allowing just 9.5 points per game. DeSarno also delivered 404 yards rushing and six touchdowns plus 136 receiving yards as Wall went 12-1 to set a school record for wins, claimed the Colonial Division title and secured the Central Jersey Group 3 state sectional championship.
DB - Wally Doman, Jr., Jackson Memorial - FINAL VOTE WINNER
Doman recorded 103 tackles with 5 tackles for loss, 1 interception, 10 pass breakups, 3 fumble recoveries and 1 forced fumble to help the Jaguars to 8-3 and reach the Central Jersey Group 4 championship game. He was a First Team All-Division selection in the Colonial Division.
UT – Knajee Alston, Sr., Asbury Park
Alston ran for a team-high 826 and eight touchdowns and added 116 receiving yards. On defense, Alston recorded a team-high 47 tackles with 10 tackles and 7 tackles for loss.
UT – Evan Jennings, Sr., Holmdel
Jennings made 40 tackles with 2 tackles for loss, 3 pass breakups, 2 fumble recoveries and 1 defensive touchdown. He also ran for two touchdowns. His play helped Holmdel record a third straight winning season for the first time since 1986-1988.
UT – Mike Kudlacik, Sr., Lacey
Kudlacik made a team-high 66 tackles with 13 tackles for loss, 2 sacks, 7 hurries, 1 interception, 4 forced fumbles and 3 fumble recoveries as a linebacker. As a tight end, Kudlacik caught 15 passes for 226 yards and 4 touchdowns. His play helped Lacey go 7-4 and reach the Central Jersey Group 3 semifinals.
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