2021 Shore Sports Network All-Shore Football Teams
Shore Sports Network is proud to unveil its 2021 All-Shore teams and season-ending award winners featuring the top performers from the 2021 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.
*All-Shore Final Vote Winners*
*Offensive Player of the Year*
*Defensive Player of the Year*
2021 Shore Sports Network All-Shore Football Selections
FIRST TEAM
OFFENSE
QB – Alex Brown, Sr., Red Bank Catholic
The Shore Sports Network Offensive Player of the Year, Brown led Red Bank Catholic to an 11-1 record, the Constitution Division title, the Non-Public B state championship, and the No. 1 in the SSN Top 10 by throwing for 1,823 yards and 22 touchdowns and rushing for 565 yards and 10 touchdowns. He completed 67 percent of his passes, threw just two interceptions, and averaged 7.5 yards per carry on the ground. RBC had the No. 2 scoring offense in the Shore at 32.7 points per game. He accounted for 12 touchdowns in RBC’s three playoff games, including an unforgettable eight touchdown game vs. Morris Catholic in the first round of the playoffs the day after his mother passed away. A three-time All-Shore selection, Brown will continue his career at Bucknell University.
QB – Jalin Butler, Sr., Donovan Catholic
Butler’s dual-threat ability helped take the Griffins’ offense to another level as they averaged 32.6 points per game, the third-best mark in the Shore. Butler completed 61 percent of his passes for 1,124 yards with 14 touchdowns and four interceptions and ran for 939 yards and nine touchdowns on an average of 8.8 yards per carry. Butler also started in the secondary for the Griffins and made 43 tackles, recorded one sack, intercepted a pass, and had eight pass breakups. He was selected as the American Division Offensive Player of the Year by the coaches. His play helped Donovan go 9-2 on the field and finish No. 2 in the SSN Top 10.
RB – Nunes Bukula IV, Sr., Donovan Catholic
With power, speed, vision, and versatility, Bukula made his only season as the Griffins’ starting running back count by rushing for 1,249 yards and 13 touchdowns on an average of 8 yards per carry. He also caught six passes for 119 yards to average 124.4 scrimmage yards per game. He ran for a career-high 232 yards in a 35-0 win over Colts Neck and ran for 156 yards and two touchdowns in a 28-7 win over Red Bank Catholic. His play helped Donovan go 9-2 on the field and finish No. 2 in the SSN Top 10.
RB – Jaden Gallo, Sr., Holmdel
Gallo had a tremendous senior season to run his way into the Hornets’ record book, rushing for a single-season school record 1,401 yards and 15 touchdowns on an average of 8.1 yards per carry. He also caught six passes for 208 yards and two touchdowns, averaging an astonishing 34.7 yards per reception. He joined his brother, Dean, as the only players in school history to have two 1,000-yard rushing seasons.
RB – Jaiden Brown, Sr., Southern
A two-time First Team All-Shore selection, Brown ran for 1,124 yards and 13 touchdowns on an average of 6.3 yards per carry, caught a touchdown pass, and also threw a touchdown pass. He started on defense at linebacker, as well, and recorded a team-high 77 tackles. He is Southern’s all-time leading rusher with 3,454 yards, the Rams’ all-time leading scorer with 252 points, and this season became the first player in program history to record three straight 1,000-yard rushing seasons.
WR – Kyree Drake, Sr., Donovan Catholic
A serious threat to score every time he touched the ball, Drake was a big play waiting to happen for a Griffins’ offense that was No. 3 in the Shore averaging 32.6 points per game. Drake caught 30 passes for 512 yards and seven touchdowns on an average of 17.1 yards per reception and ran for 293 yards and six touchdowns on an average of 13.3 yards per carry. He also played in the secondary and recorded 31 tackles and intercepted two passes. His play helped Donovan go 9-2 on the field and finish No. 2 in the SSN Top 10.
WR – Cole Kozlowski, Sr., Manasquan
Kozlowski played multiple positions during his first two varsity seasons but settled in as a wide receiver this year and turned in a fantastic senior season. The 6-foot-2, 225-pound wideout caught 42 passes for 750 yards and a conference-high 10 touchdowns for a Warriors’ offense that finished tied for fifth in the Shore in scoring at 27.7 points per game. He was also an impact player on defense as a safety where he recorded four interceptions. His play helped Manasquan go 8-3 and reach the Central Jersey Group 3 semifinals.
WR – Najih Rahman, Jr., Red Bank Catholic
A complete receiver who can move the chains or stretch the defense with equal effectiveness, Rahman caught 32 passes for 520 yards and four touchdowns for a Caseys’ offense that was No. 2 in the Shore in scoring at 32.7 points per game. He had a touchdown catch in RBC’s 13-8 win over DePaul in the Non-Public B state championship game. His play helped the Caseys go 11-1, win the Constitution Division title, claim a state championship, and finish No. 1 in the SSN Top 10.
TE – Alex Bauman, Sr., Red Bank Catholic
The Shore Sports Network 2021 Most Valuable Player, the 6-foot-4, 230-pound Bauman was a force on both sides of the ball for the top-ranked Caseys. At tight end, he caught 26 passes for 432 yards and six touchdowns and was a standout blocker for a unit that rushed for 210 yards per game. Bauman was a game-wrecker as a defensive end with 79 tackles, eight sacks, 16 tackles for loss, 18 hurries, two fumble recoveries, and three pass deflections. His play helped the Caseys go 11-1, win the Constitution Division title, claim a state championship, and finish No. 1 in the SSN Top 10. He has yet to make a college commitment but has multiple FBS offers, including Notre Dame.
OL – Caron McNair, Sr., Donovan Catholic
The 6-foot-5, 295-pound senior was the top lineman for a Griffins offense that was No. 3 in the Shore averaging 32.6 points per game and rushing for an average of 228 yards per game with 31 touchdowns. McNair also played along the defensive line and made 30 tackles, recorded three sacks, and returned an interception 47 yards for a touchdown. He was a key component for a Griffins team that went 9-2 on the field and finished No. 2 in the SSN Top 10.
OL – Vince Carpenter, Sr., Red Bank Catholic
(Ray Rich Photography).
At 6-foot-6 and pushing 300 pounds, Carpenter was an anchor up front for a Red Bank Catholic offense that was No. 2 in the Shore averaging 32.7 points per game, including rushing for 210 yards per game on an average of 6.6 yards per rush. His play helped the Caseys go 11-1, win the Constitution Division title, claim a state championship, and finish No. 1 in the SSN Top 10. Carpenter is signed with Purdue to continue his career in the Big Ten.
OL – Ashton Mejias, Sr., Red Bank Catholic
The 6-foot-2, 285-pound Mejias was a mauler up front for a Caseys’ offense that was No. 2 in the Shore averaging 32.7 points per game, including rushing for an average of 210 yards per game on 6.6 yards per carry. His play helped the Caseys go 11-1, win the Constitution Division title, claim a state championship, and finish No. 1 in the SSN Top 10.
OL – Jake Williamson, Sr., Middletown South
Williamson was the top lineman for an Eagles team that rushed for 187 yards per game on an average of 5.1 yards per attempt. The 6-foot-3, 270-pound senior was also an impact player on defense with 36 tackles, 3 sacks, 6 tackles for loss, a forced fumble, and two batted passes. Middletown South had the No. 2 scoring defense in the Shore at 10.1 points per game. Williamson’s presence as a player and a leader helped the Eagles go 9-2, win the Colonial Division title, reach the North 2, Group 4 sectional final, and finish No. 4 in the SSN Top 10.
OL – Christian Smith, Sr., Rumson-Fair Haven
A 6-foot-3, 265-pound multiple-year starter for the Bulldogs, Smith helped Rumson to another successful season that included a 9-2 record, the American Division title, the program’s eighth straight appearance in a sectional championship game, and the No. 3 ranking in the SSN Top 10. His blocking paved the way for Rumson to rush for 1,910 yards and 28 touchdowns. Smith will continue his career at Merrimack College.
OL – Cole Skinner, Jr., Point Boro
The 6-foot-6, 305-pound junior anchored a Point Boro offensive line that paved the way for the conference’s No. 1 scoring offense. The Panthers and their triple-option attack averaged 35.5 points per game and rushed for a conference-best 3,682 yards and 52 touchdowns on an average of 7.2 yards per carry. Skinner’s play in the trenches was a major reason Point Boro returned to championship form in 2021, going 10-2, winning the Patriot Division championship, winning the NJSIAA South Jersy Group 2 sectional title, and finishing No. 8 in the SSN Top 10.
Utility – Jamie Mazzacco, Sr., QB/RB/LB/K/P, Shore
Mazzacco was the true definition of a utility player for Shore, excelling in as many as five positions, accounting for 74 percent of the Blue Devils’ offensive production, and leading the way on defense and special teams. As Shore’s quarterback and sometimes tailback, Mazzacco was second in the Shore in rushing yards with 1,642 yards and tied for first with 26 touchdowns on an average of 6.1 yards per carry. He also threw for 747 yards and four touchdowns. On defense, Mazzacco played linebacker and recorded a team-high 80 tackles with four tackles for loss, two interceptions, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery. He was selected as the Patriot Division Defensive Player of the Year by the coaches. Mazzacco was also Shore’s kicker and punter, connecting on 27 of 30 extra points, kicking two field goals with a long of 33 yards, and averaging 36.4 yards per punt with four downed inside the 20-yard line. His 191 total points were the most in the Shore Conference.
Utility - Brett Patten, Jr., QB, Manasquan
Patten blossomed into one of the Shore’s best quarterbacks this season, throwing for 1,592 yards and 25 touchdowns against just six interceptions for a Warriors’ offense that tied for fifth in the Shore in scoring at 27.7 points per game. He was also a threat on the ground in Manasquan’s up-tempo, spread offense and rushed for eight touchdowns. His play helped Manasquan go 8-3 and reach the Central Jersey Group 3 semifinals.
Utility – Charlie Vitale, Sr., QB/DB, Point Boro
Vitale was the heart and soul of a Point Boro team that returned to glory in 2021. The Panthers won the NJSIAA South Jersey Group 2 sectional title, the Patriot Division championship, finished with a 10-2 record, and concluded the season ranked No. 8 in the SSN Top 10 in large part thanks to Vitale’s work at quarterback and defensive back. A three-year starter, Vitale orchestrated Point Boro’s triple-option attack to near perfection by rushing for 961 yards and 16 touchdowns on an average of 6.6 yards per carry and completing 71 percent of his passes for 512 yards and seven touchdowns with only one interception. He started in the secondary on defense and recorded 53 tackles and intercepted three passes, one of which he returned for a touchdown. He was selected as the Patriot Division Offensive Player of the Year by the coaches.
Utility – Micah Ford, So., QB/DB, Toms River North
After starting at running back as a freshman, Ford became Toms River North’s starting quarterback and was excellent in running its power spread offense. A young Mariners team only got better as the season progressed and Ford led the way by rushing for 1,451 yards and 17 touchdowns on an average of 6.7 yards per carry and throwing for 944 yards and eight touchdowns. He started in the secondary on defense and made 82 tackles with 2 tackles for loss, 1 interception, 3 forced fumbles, and 7 pass breakups. His play helped Toms River North go on a six-game winning streak in the second half of the season to reach the South Jersey Group 5 championship game, finish 7-4, and end the season ranked No. 6 in the SSN Top 10.
K/P – Sean Hurley, Sr., Central
Hurley was a perfect 36-for-36 on extra points, connected on field goals of 38 and 31 yards, booted 18 touchbacks on kickoffs, and averaged 46.7 yards per punt with six downed inside the 10-yard line. He helped Central to a championship season as the Golden Eagles went 6-4 and won the Liberty Division title.
DEFENSE
DL – Aiden Moriarty, Sr., Rumson-Fair Haven
A fearsome edge rusher from his defensive end position, Moriarty totaled 102 tackles with 40 solo stops, nine sacks, 11 tackles for loss, and 2 forced fumbles for the Shore’s No. 1 scoring defense. Rumson allowed just 6.8 points per game, recorded four shutouts, and nine of its 11 opponents to one touchdown or less. He was a major reason why Rumson finished 9-2, won the American Division title, reached its eighth straight sectional championship game, and finished No. 3 in the SSN Top 10.
DL – Jack Latore, Sr., Middletown South
Middletown South had the Shore’s No. 2 scoring defense allowing just 10.1 points per game and Latore was a major reason why. The 6-foot-4, 240-pound defensive end routinely blew up plays in the backfield with 5.5 sacks and 25 tackles for loss among his 89 total tackles. He also recovered three fumbles, forced a fumble, and knocked down a pass. He was also the Eagles’ starting tight end and caught two touchdown passes. His play helped the Eagles go 9-2, win the Colonial Division title, reach the North 2, Group 4 sectional final, and finish No. 4 in the SSN Top 10.
DL – Blake Rezk, Sr., Wall
A two-time First Team All-Shore selection, Rezk made 65 tackles with 8 sacks, 8 tackles for loss, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery for a Wall defense that was a top-10 unit in the Shore. His play helped the Crimson Knights go 6-3 on the field, reach the South Jersey Group 3 semifinals and finish No. 5 in the SSN Top 10.
DL – Levi Wilkins, Sr., Donovan Catholic
Wilkins was a major reason Donovan had the No. 4 scoring defense (11.5 ppg) in the Shore, recorded two shutouts, and held nine of its 11 opponents to two touchdowns or less. The 6-foot-4, 220-pounder totaled 57 tackles and a team-leading six sacks from his spot at defensive end. He was also a starting tight end and caught nine passes for 146 yards and a touchdown. His play helped Donovan go 9-2 on the field and finish No. 2 in the SSN Top 10. He will continue his football career at Bryant University.
LB – John Lista, Sr., Rumson-Fair Haven
The 2021 Shore Sports Network Defensive Player of the Year, Lista had a monstrous senior season to lead the Shore’s top-ranked defense. His 136 tackles were the third-most in the Shore and his 10 sacks tied for the second-most in the conference. He was a sideline-to-sideline menace who also had 11 tackles, a forced fumble, a fumble recovery, and an interception return for a touchdown. He spearheaded a Bulldogs’ defense that allowed just 6.8 points per game, recorded four shutouts, and held nine of 11 opponents to seven points or less. A two-time First Team All-Shore selection, Lista will continue his career in the Ivy League at the University of Pennsylvania.
LB – Nat Iannello, Sr., Donovan Catholic
The Shore Conference leader in tackles, Iannello made a whopping 172 tackles, recorded four sacks, broke up two passes, and recovered a fumble for a Griffins’ defense that was No. 4 in the Shore allowing 11.5 points per game. He recorded over 20 tackles twice with 22 vs. Rumson-Fair Haven and 26 vs. Red Bank Catholic. His play helped Donovan go 9-2 on the field and finish No. 2 in the SSN Top 10.
LB – Ryan McKay, Sr., Rumson-Fair Haven
McKay was an underrated yet invaluable centerpiece of Rumson’s standout defense. The senior recorded 126 tackles with 63 solo stops, added six tackles for loss, forced one fumble, and recovered another for a unit that allowed just 6.8 points per game, recorded four shutouts, and held nine of 11 opponents to seven points or less. He was also an extension of the coaching staff, making many calls on the field to put the defense in the right position. His play helped the Bulldogs go 9-2, win the American Division championship, reach their eighth straight sectional final, and finish No. 3 in the SSN Top 10.
LB – Tyler Ochojski, Sr., Freehold
After two years wreaking havoc as a defensive end, Ochojski slid back to linebacker and produced another great season with 85 tackles, six sacks, 10 tackles for loss, 2 forced fumbles, and 2 fumble recoveries. He also played tight end where he caught 12 passes for 146 yards. A three-time All-Shore selection, Ochojski will continue his career at Lehigh University.
LB – Charlie Sasso, Sr., Wall
An injury early in the season prevented Sasso from playing at his usual high level from start to finish, but last year’s SSN Defensive Player of the Year got healthy and turned in his third straight First Team All-Shore performance. In eight games, Sasso totaled 87 tackles with 5 tackles for loss, 1 sack, and 1 interception that he returned for a touchdown. Wall once again had a top-10 defense in the Shore allowing 16.4 points per game. His play helped Wall win six of its last seven games, finish 6-3 on the field, and reach the South Jersey Group 3 semifinals. Sasso will continue his career at Monmouth University.
DB – Sabino Portella, Jr., Red Bank Catholic
Portella was instrumental to RBC’s success with his efforts on both sides of the ball. As a safety, he recorded 68 tackles, two interceptions, three tackles for loss, and two pass breakups. He was also the Caseys’ leading rusher with 845 yards and nine touchdowns on an average of 6.1 yards per carry. His play helped the Caseys go 11-1, win the Constitution Division title, claim a state championship, and finish No. 1 in the SSN Top 10.
DB – Shamar Williams, Jr., Long Branch
Williams was a big-time playmaker in the secondary for the Green Wave with five interceptions, which tied for the conference high. He returned three of those interceptions for touchdowns and added 45 tackles, 1 sack, 13 tackles for loss, two fumble recoveries, and two blocked kicks. He also played wide receiver and caught 15 passes for 198 yards. His play helped the Green Wave go 8-2, win the Freedom Division title, reach the South Jersey Group 4 semifinals, and finish No. 9 in the SSN Top 10.
DB – Tom Schork, Sr., Middletown South
Schork was an invaluable two-way leader for Middletown South and his play helped the Eagles go 9-2, win the Colonial Division title, reach the North 2, Group 4 sectional final, and finish No. 4 in the SSN Top 10. He was a standout defensive back for the Shore’s No. 2 scoring defense (10.1 ppg) with 26 tackles, one interception, 2 tackles for loss, and four pass breakups. He was also Middletown South’s quarterback, throwing for 802 yards and four touchdowns and rushing for 453 yards and seven touchdowns.
DB – Brian Haddow, Sr., Middletown North
Haddow was great on both sides of the ball for a Middletown North team that tied for the Independence Division championship. As a defensive back, he recorded 91 tackles with 5 tackles for loss, 5 pass breakups, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery. As Middletown North’s lead running back, Haddow ran for 950 yards and 10 touchdowns and caught 49 passes for 506 yards and one touchdown. He was selected as the co-Offensive Player of the Year in the Independence Division.
SECOND TEAM
OFFENSE
QB – Christian Rodriguez, Sr., Long Branch
The Freedom Division Offensive Player of the Year, Rodriguez threw for 1,464 yards with 19 touchdowns and six interceptions and ran for 406 yards and five touchdowns. He also started in the secondary and totaled 29 tackles with four tackles for loss, 3 interceptions, and 2 forced fumbles. His play helped Long Branch go 8-2, win the Freedom Division title, reach the South Jersey Group 4 semifinals, and finish No. 9 in the SSN Top 10.
QB – Tommy Giannone, Sr., Middletown North
Giannone threw for 2,073 yards with 15 touchdowns and nine interceptions to help lead the Lions to a share of the Independence Division championship.
RB – Chase Gumbrecht, Jr., Central
Gumbrecht had a breakout season and was the Shore Conference rushing champion with 1,825 yards and 25 touchdowns on an average of 8 yards per carry. He also had a receiving touchdown to finish second in the Shore with 156 total points. Gumbrecht was selected as the Liberty Division Offensive Player of the Year by the coaches. He was a major reason why Central went 6-4 and won the Liberty Division title.
RB – Kieran Falzon, Jr., Raritan
Falzon was third in the Shore with 1,512 yards rushing and 23 touchdowns on an average of 6.4 yards per carry to help the Rockets reach the Central Jersey Group 2 sectional final.
RB – Geoff Schroeder, Sr., Rumson-Fair Haven
Schroeder ran for 1,085 yards and 11 touchdowns on an average of 6.5 yards per carry to help the Bulldogs go 9-2, win the American Division championship, reach their eighth straight sectional final, and finish No. 3 in the SSN Top 10.
RB - Pete Pezzullo, Sr., St. John Vianney
Pezzullo ran for 1,011 yards and 14 touchdowns on an average of 7.6 yards per carry to conclude his career as a 1,000-yard rusher. He will continue his career at The University of St. Thomas, an FCS program in Minnesota.
WR – D'Maari Brown, Sr., Manchester
Brown turned in an exceptional senior season to lead the Shore Conference in receptions (62) and yards (816) while tying for second with nine touchdown receptions.
WR – DJ Thomson, Sr., Keyport
Voted as the National Division Offensive Player of the Year by the coaches, Thomson concluded a great high school career by catching 30 passes for 625 yards and nine touchdowns, finishing fourth in the Shore in yards and tied for second in touchdown receptions. He also ran for 212 yards and three touchdowns, returned two punts for touchdowns, and returned a kickoff for a touchdown. On defense, he recorded 41 tackles with 10 tackles for loss, 2 interceptions, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery. He will continue his career at East Stroudsburg University.
WR – Nick Vecchiarelli, Sr., Howell
Vecchiarelli had a fantastic season on both sides of the ball with 52 receptions for 725 yards and two touchdowns plus 97 tackles and two interceptions on defense. His 52 receptions were the second-most in the Shore and his 725 receiving yards were the third-most. Howell had the No. 11 scoring offense in the Shore at 24 points per game.
TE – Zac Searight, Sr., Middletown North
Searight was a reliable target in the passing game with 25 receptions for 294 yards and five touchdowns to help the Lions earn a share of the Independence Division title.
OL – Brian Byrne, Sr., Wall
A two-time All-Shore selection, Byrne was a four-year starter for the Crimson Knights and this season was the top lineman for an offense that was fourth in the Shore averaging 28.3 points per game. His blocking helped pave the way for Wall to rush for 216 yards per game.
OL – Dan Volpe, Sr., Colts Neck
The 6-foot-6, 305-pound Volpe was the top lineman for a Colts Neck team that rushed for 1,697 yards and 16 touchdowns and totaled 787 yards passing and six touchdowns. He is a two-time All-Shore selection and will continue his career at Towson University.
OL – Aaron Crooms, Sr., Donovan Catholic
Crooms is a two-time All-Shore selection and the 6-foot-1, 285-pound guard was an integral component of Donovan Catholic’s rushing attack that ran for 2,731 yards and 31 touchdowns on an average of 227.6 yards per game and 8.1 yards per carry. His play helped the Griffins go 9-2 on the field and finish No. 2 in the SSN Top 10.
OL – Charles Pearson, Sr., Rumson-Fair Haven
Pearson was a standout for a Rumson offense that rushed for 1,910 yards and 28 touchdowns and averaged 24.7 points per game. His play helped the Bulldogs go 9-2, win the American Division title, reach their eighth straight sectional final, and finish No. 3 in the SSN Top 10. He will continue his football career at Johns Hopkins University.
OL – Jason Trotta, Sr., Raritan
Trotta was the top lineman for a Raritan team that averaged 24.8 points per game, averaged 271 yards rushing per game and scored 30 rushing touchdowns. His play helped the Rockets reach the Central Jersey Group 2 sectional final. He will continue his career at The University of New Hampshire.
Utility – Kamore Gill, Sr., QB/RB/WR, Freehold
Gill took over as Freehold’s quarterback to start the season and later moved to running back and wide receiver. He was one of two players in the Shore to rush and pass for 1,000 yards each with 1,109 yards rushing and 16 touchdowns on an average of 6.9 yards per carry and 1,055 yards passing and five touchdowns. He also caught 18 passes for 214 yards and two touchdowns and intercepted two passes as a defensive back.
Utility – Mikal Braithwaite, Sr., QB/LB, Keansburg
The National Division Defensive Player of the Year as selected by the coaches, Braithwaite led the Titans by rushing for 939 yards and 11 touchdowns on an average of 7.1 yards per carry and throwing for 918 yards and eight touchdowns. On defense he made 81 tackles and one interception.
Utility – Rajahn Cooper, Sr., RB/LB, Red Bank Catholic
Cooper ran for 497 yards and five touchdowns on an average of 6.5 yards per carry, caught 16 passes for 283 yards and two touchdowns, and made 68 tackles with 2 sacks, 5 tackles for loss, and 3 forced fumbles to help RBC go 11-1, win the Constitution Division title and the NJSIAA Non-Public B state championship, and finish No. 1 in the SSN Top 10.
Utility – Zach Mendes, Sr., RB/LB, Marlboro
Marlboro had one of the best seasons in program history with a 7-3 record and Mendes led the way by rushing for 888 yards and 12 touchdowns, catching a touchdown pass, making 80 tackles with seven tackles for loss, recording two sacks, intercepting a pass, and forcing two fumbles.
Utility – Colin Kennedy, Sr, QB, Rumson-Fair Haven
Kennedy completed 60 percent of his passes for 889 yards and 10 touchdowns and ran for 444 yards and 11 touchdowns to help lead Rumson to a 9-2 record, the American Division title, the program’s eighth straight appearance in a sectional final, and the No. 3 ranking in the final SSN Top 10.
K/P – Michael Calton, Jr., Manalapan
Calton kicked 21 extra points and five field goals with a long of 38 yards. He was also Manalapan’s punter and averaged 43 yards per punt. Additionally, he had 15 touchbacks on kickoffs.
DEFENSE
DL – Nate Committee, Sr., Southern
Committee had 73 tackles, 5 sacks, 8 tackles for loss, 3 forced fumbles, and 2 fumble recoveries as a defensive end. He was also a standout fullback who helped lead the way for First Team All-Shore running back Jaiden Brown while adding two touchdown runs and a touchdown catch. Committee is also an All-Shore lacrosse defenseman and is committed to Division 1 Bellarmine University.
DL – Mason Shenk, Sr., St. John Vianney
Shenk recorded 81 tackles, 6 sacks, 21 tackles for loss, and 6 fumble recoveries as a defensive end and was also one of the top kickers in the Shore with 22 out of 26 extra points converted plus two field goals with a long of 32 yards. He is also a standout lacrosse player and is signed to play Division 1 lacrosse at Binghamton University.
DL – Ryan McPherson, Sr., Red Bank Catholic
McPherson recorded 50 tackles with 4 sacks and 13 tackles for loss for an RBC defense that was No. 3 the Shore allowing 11.4 points per game. His play helped the Caseys go 11-1, win the Constitution Division title and the Non-Public B state championship, and finish No. 1 in the SSN Top 10.
DL – Jack Lopez, Jr., Middletown North
Lopez was voted the co-Defensive Player of the Year in the Independence Division. He recorded 63 total tackles with 21 tackles for loss, 3 sacks, 2 forced fumbles, and 20 hurries to help the Lions claim a share of the Independence Division title.
LB – Dante Vernieri, Jr., Donovan Catholic
Vernieri had an exceptional junior season with 132 tackles, two sacks, and five interceptions to tie for the Shore Conference lead. He returned four of those interceptions for touchdowns to lead the Shore in that category. He was a major reason why the Griffins had the No. 4 scoring defense in the Shore at 11.5 points per game, went 9-2 on the field, and finished No. 2 in the SSN Top 10.
LB – Davin Brewton, So., Red Bank Catholic
Brewton won a starting job in the middle of RBC’s defense as a sophomore and turned in a great season with a team-high 119 tackles, 2 sacks, and 10 tackles for loss. The Caseys had the No. 3 scoring defense in the Shore at 11.4 points per game. Brewton’s play helped RBC go 11-1, win the Constitution Division title and the NJSIAA Non-Public B state championship, and finish No. 1 in the SSN Top 10.
LB – Colin Gallagher, So., Middletown South
Gallagher announced his presence with a wonderful sophomore season that saw him lead the Shore Conference with 12 sacks. He added 83 total tackles with 19 tackles for loss, 3 forced fumbles, a fumble recovery, and a pass breakup for an Eagles’ defense that allowed just 10.1 points per game to finish No. 2 in the Shore in scoring defense. His play helped Middletown South go 9-2, win the Colonial Division title, and reach the North 2, Group 4 sectional final.
LB – Thomas Sardo, Sr., Holmdel
A two-time All-Shore selection, Sardo made 90 tackles with 3 sacks, 12 tackles for loss, 2 forced fumbles, and a pass breakup to conclude a great career for the Hornets.
LB – Jack Willi, Sr., Middletown South
Willi recorded a team-high 94 tackles along with 2.5 sacks, 10 tackles for loss, an interception, 2 forced fumbles, and a fumble recovery for an Eagles’ defense that was No. 2 in the Shore allowing just 10.1 points per game. His play helped Middletown South go 9-2, win the Colonial Division title, and reach the North 2, Group 4 sectional final.
DB – Beau Kemler, Jr., Rumson-Fair Haven
Kemler totaled 56 tackles including 3 interceptions, 3 tackles for loss, 2 fumble recoveries, and 1 forced fumble for Rumson’s top-ranked defense that allowed just 6.8 points per game. His play helped the Bulldogs go 9-2, win the American Division championship, reach their eighth straight sectional final, and finish No. 3 in the SSN Top 10.
DB – Matt Dollive, Sr., Wall
A great all-around athlete, Dollive was a standout cover corner who opposing offenses stayed away from in the passing game. He also shifted from wide receiver to running back and ran for 1,004 yards and 15 touchdowns on an average of 8.7 yards per carry. He is a two-time All-Shore selection. Dollive is also an All-Shore lacrosse player and is signed to continue his career at Rutgers.
DB – Yah-Sin Calhoun, Sr., Freehold
A two-time All-Shore selection, Calhoun recorded 70 tackles on defense and also caught 36 passes for 377 yards and two touchdowns.
DB – Jake Czwakiel, So., Middletown South
Another standout on Middletown South’s excellent defense, Czwakiel tied for the Shore Conference lead with five interceptions, one of which he returned for a touchdown. He finished with 45 tackles, 2 tackles for loss, and 5 pass breakups for a unit that was No. 2 in the Shore allowing just 10.1 points per game. Czwakiel was also one of the Shore’s best kickers who converted 25 of 27 extra points and kicked five field goals with a long of 31 yards. His play on defense and special teams helped the Eagles go 9-2, win the Colonial Division title, and reach the North 2, Group 4 sectional final.
THIRD TEAM
OFFENSE
QB – Stephen Jardim, Sr., Howell
Jardim led the Shore Conference in passing by completing 63 percent of his passes for 2,212 yards and 22 touchdowns with just six interceptions. Howell had the No. 11 scoring offense in the Shore at 24 points per game.
QB – Savon Myers, Sr., Manchester
A two-time All-Shore selection, Myers threw for 1,612 yards and 14 touchdowns and rushed for 559 yards and seven touchdowns on an average of 5.9 yards per carry.
QB - AJ Schwartz, Jr., Marlboro - FINAL VOTE WINNER
Schwartz threw for 834 yards and 14 touchdowns with just two interceptions and added 541 yards rushing and 5 touchdowns for an offense that was top-15 in the Shore averaging 23.4 points per game. He also made 27 tackles with two tackles for loss and intercepted three passes on defense. Schwartz's contributions helped Marlboro go 7-3 for its first winning season since 1999 and the program's second-most wins in a season in program history.
RB – Tyler Weisneck, Sr., Brick
Weisneck ran for 1,136 yards and nine touchdowns on an average of 7.3 yards per carry, which included a career-high 306 yards and two touchdowns in a win over Ocean.
RB – Jake Croce, So., Point Boro
The fullback in Point Boro’s triple-option offense that led the Shore in scoring at 35.5 points per game, Croce ran for 1,101 yards and 10 touchdowns on an average of 6.9 yards per carry to help the Panthers go 10-2, win the Patriot Division title and the NJSIAA South Jersey Group 2 sectional championship, and finish No. 8 in the SSN Top 10. He also caught nine passes for 120 yards and two touchdowns and totaled 29 tackles, 3 interceptions, and 2 tackles for loss on defense.
RB – Julian Jones, Jr., Monmouth
Jones ran for 1,198 yards and 14 touchdowns on an average of 6.4 yards per carry and caught 18 passes for 207 yards and a touchdown to help the Falcons go 6-4 and win the National Division title.
RB – Dan Primiano, Sr., Middletown South
Primiano ran for 1,027 yards and 10 touchdowns on an average of 6.2 yards per carry to help Middletown South go 9-2, win the Colonial Division title, and reach the North 2, Group 4 sectional championship game.
RB - Elijah Marquez, Sr., Manalapan - FINAL VOTE WINNER
Marquez ran for 624 yards and 8 touchdowns on an average of 4.5 yards per carry for a Manalapan team that went 6-3 and finished No. 10 in the SSN Top 10.
WR – Matt Dengler, Sr., Red Bank
Dengler caught 33 passes, tied for fourth in the Shore with 625 yards, and hauled in six touchdowns.
WR – Levi Wilson, Sr., Middletown North
Wilson caught 31 passes for 562 yards and six touchdowns and also had three interceptions on defense to help the Lions tie for the Independence Division championship.
WR – Kevin Maloney, So., Howell
Maloney had a great debut season at the varsity level by catching 34 passes for 573 yards and seven touchdowns. Howell had the No. 11 scoring offense in the Shore at 24 points per game.
WR – Kyle Verriest, Jr., St. John Vianney
Verriest built off a solid sophomore season by catching 28 passes for 426 yards and four touchdowns as a junior.
WR - Shawn Corchado, So., Freehold Township - FINAL VOTE WINNER
Corchado emerged as the No. 1 receiver in Freehold Township's spread offense and caught 38 passes for 497 yards and 6 touchdowns.
TE – Loukas Plasteras, Sr., Monmouth
The 6-foot-4, 230-pound Plasteras caught 18 passes for 233 yards and three touchdowns and was also a sturdy blocker who helped Julian Jones rush for nearly 1,200 yards. He also had a big year as a defensive end with 49 tackles, 2 sacks, a team-high 16 tackles for loss, 2 forced fumbles, and a fumble recovery.
OL – Makel Davis, Jr., St. John Vianney
The 6-foot-2, 245-pound Davis was the top lineman for a St. John Vianney offense that averaged 20.5 points per game and rushed for 1,816 yards and 24 touchdowns, and had over 1,000 yards passing.
OL – Lorenzo Portella, So., Red Bank Catholic
Already a two-year starter, Portella was a standout along the offensive line for an RBC offense that was second in the Shore in points per game (32.7), averaged 210 yards rushing per game on an average of 6.6 yards per carry, and had the SSN Offensive Player of the Year in quarterback Alex Brown. His play helped the Caseys go 11-1, win the Constitution Division title, claim the Non-Public B state championship, and finish No. 1 in the SSN Top 10.
OL – Todd Dudley, Sr., Central
Dudley’s blocking helped pave the way for the Shore Conference’s leading rusher, Chase Gumbrecht, who ran for 1,825 yards. The Golden Eagles ran for 2,623 yards, averaged 325 yards per game, and had the No. 7 scoring offense in the Shore at 26.4 points per game.
OL – Peter Thomas, Sr., Red Bank
Thomas was a three-year starter and the top lineman for a Red Bank offense that passed for 1,764 yards and 15 touchdowns.
OL – Justin Kozak Sr., Toms River South
Kozak led the way up front for an Indians as their top offensive lineman and on defense where he recorded 72 tackles, 8 tackles for loss, and a fumble recovery.
OL - Josh Kaye, Jr., Toms River North - FINAL VOTE WINNER
The 6-foot-1, 230-pound junior helped open holes for a Mariners offense that ran for 2,425 yards and 21 touchdowns on an average of 6.2 yards per carry and averaged 21.3 points per game. His play helped the Mariners to 7-4 and reach the South Jersey Group 5 sectional final.
Utility – Connor Dietz, So., QB, Brick Memorial
Dietz had a record-breaking varsity debut by rushing for 1,368 yards and 18 touchdowns on an average of 8 yards per carry and passing for 1,010 yards and five touchdowns. He also had two touchdown catches to set a Brick Memorial single-season scoring record with 130 points.
Utility – Jashawn Carter, So., RB, Asbury Park
Carter ran for 903 yards and 11 touchdowns on an average of 8.9 yards per carry and caught 19 passes for 412 yards and three touchdowns during an excellent sophomore year for the Blue Bishops.
Utility – Mysun Rush-Esdaile, Sr., WR/DB, Donovan Catholic
Rush-Esdaile was an important two-way player for the Griffins who made 74 tackles with 2 tackles for loss, 1 sack, and 5 pass deflections as a defensive back and added 167 receiving yards and two touchdowns. His play helped the Griffins go 9-2 on the field and finish No. 2 in the SSN Top 10.
Utility – David Onuoha, Sr., RB/LB, Matawan
Onuoha was the Huskies’ leader on both sides of the ball with 1,093 yards rushing and 10 touchdowns plus 157 tackles, 4 sacks, 14 tackles for loss, 2 forced fumbles, and a fumble recovery. His 157 tackles were the second-most in the Shore this season.
Utility – Tyler Douglas, Jr., QB/DB, Ocean
Douglas was the Spartans’ top all-around player with 881 yards passing and 9 touchdowns, 815 yards rushing and 8 touchdowns, 64 tackles, and 3 interceptions.
Utility - Tyler Gordon, Jr., LB/RB, Point Boro - FINAL VOTE WINNER
Gordon recorded 74 tackles, 5 sacks, 5 tackles for loss and two interceptions as a linebacker and also punched in six touchdowns as a fullback to help Point Boro go 10-2, win the Patriot Division championship, claim the NJSIAA South Jersey Group 2 sectional title, and finish No. 8 in the SSN Top 10.
Utility - Cooper Yorke, Sr., QB/LB/K, Jackson Liberty - FINAL VOTE WINNER
Yorke did a little bit of everything for the Lions with 110 tackles, 1 sack, 10 tackles for loss, 2 forced fumbles, and a pass breakup on defense and 230 yards rushing plus 250 yards passing and two touchdowns at quarterback. He was also one of the top kickers in the Shore Conference in covering 7 of 9 extra points and 6 of 7 field goals with a long of 41 yards.
K/P – Cody Wohlrab, Jr., Freehold Township
Wohlrab converted 15 of 17 extra points and his seven field goals (long of 35 yards) were the most in the Shore Conference. He also averaged 35.5 yards per punt with six punts downed inside the 20-yard line.
K - Jeffrey Spengler, Sr., Raritan - FINAL VOTE WINNER
Spengler was a reliable placekicker for a Raritan offense that was routinely in scoring territory averaging 24.8 points per game. The Rockers senior was 32-for-38 on extra points and kicked five field goals with a long of 29 yards to help Raritan reach the Central Jersey Group 2 sectional final.
DEFENSE
DL – Nico Ippolito, Sr., Donovan Catholic
Ippolito was a major reason Donovan’s linebackers were able to run free and pile up tackles as he took up gaps and provided great run support for the Shore’s No. 4 scoring defense (11.5 ppg). He totaled 23 tackles, 3 sacks and 1 tackle for loss. He was also a standout offensive lineman for an offense that had the No. 3 scoring offense in the Shore at 32.6 points per game and rushed for 2,731 yards and 31 touchdowns on an average of 227.6 yards per game and 8.1 yards per carry.
DL – Mario Chierchia, Sr., Manalapan
Chierchia made 50 tackles with 3 sacks, 7 tackles for loss, 2 forced fumbles, and one fumble recovery for a Manalapan defense that had the No. 8 scoring defense in the Shore at 16.1 points per game.
DL – J.J. Cavanagh, Sr., Manasquan
Cavanagh made 45 tackles with 3 sacks, 18 tackles for loss, 1 forced fumble, and 1 interception return for a touchdown to help the Warriors go 8-3 and reach the Central Jersey Group 3 semifinals.
DL – Darian Newcomb, Sr., Brick
Newcomb was a two-way standout in the trenches for Brick and recorded two sacks and six tackles for loss along the defensive line in addition to being the team’s top offensive lineman. He was a four-year starter.
DL – Jackson Whitacre, So., Shore Regional
Whitacre posted 60 tackles with a team-high 10 sacks, a team-leading 16 tackles for loss, 2 fumble recoveries, and a forced fumble for a Blue Devils’ defense that was No. 7 in the Shore allowing 13.9 points per game.
DL – De'ondre Banks, Jr., Neptune
Banks totaled 65 tackles, 8 sacks, and 15 tackles for loss to lead the way for the Scarlet Fliers’ defense.
DL - Shane Garrett, Jr., Ocean - FINAL VOTE WINNER
Garrett was a steady presence along the defensive line for Ocean and produced three forced fumbles plus three fumble recoveries.
LB – Connor Reynolds, Jr., Point Boro
Reynolds was the top defender for a Point Boro defense that was No. 6 in the Shore allowing 13.7 points per game. The junior made 61 tackles with 7 sacks and 5 tackles for loss to help the Panthers go 10-2, win the Patriot Division title and the NJSIAA South Jersey Group 2 sectional title, and finish No. 8 in the SSN Top 10.
LB – Alex Dekis, Sr., Raritan
A two-time All-Shore selection, Dekis recorded a team-high 97 tackles with two tackles for loss, three fumble recoveries and a forced fumble to help the Rockets reach the Central Jersey Group 2 sectional final.
LB – Ryan Burns, Sr., Manasquan
Burns totaled 83 tackles with 2 sacks, 9 tackles for loss, 2 fumble recoveries and a forced fumble to help the Warriors go 8-3 and reach the Central Jersey Group 3 semifinals.
LB – Connor Farrell, Sr., Donovan Catholic
A two-time All-Shore selection, Farrell had his season cut short when he suffered a leg injury during an Oct. 8 win over Wall. He totaled 33 tackles with and two tackles for loss for a Griffins’ defense that was No. 4 in the Shore allowing 11.5 points per game.
LB – John Dodaro, Sr., Lacey
Dodaro was voted as the Independence Division co-Defensive Player of the Year by the coaches for making 79 tackles with 2 sacks, 7 tackles for loss, 1 interception, and a forced fumble as the Lions earned a share of the division title.
LB – Anthony Musso, Sr., Central
Musso was the coaches’ selection as the Liberty Division Defensive Player of the Year for a season in which he totaled 108 tackles, 6 sacks, 7 tackles for loss and two forced fumbles. The Golden Eagles won the Liberty Division title and allowed just six points in four division games.
LB - Ty Kazanowsky, Jr., Toms River North - FINAL VOTE WINNER
The 6-foot-4, 225-pound outside linebacker recorded 84 tackles, 5 sacks, 13 tackles for loss, 1 interception, and 32 hurries to help Toms River North go 7-4 and reach the South Jersey Group 5 sectional final.
DB – Joe Diorio, Sr., Red Bank Catholic
A lockdown cornerback who was routinely assigned to the opponents'’ No. 1 wide receiver, Diorio intercepted two passes, broke up two passes, and made 27 tackles with three tackles for loss on the Shore’s No. 3 scoring defense (11.4 ppg). His play helped the Caseys go 11-1, win the Constitution Division title and the Non-Public B state championship, and finish No. 1 in the SSN Top 10.
DB – Brian Doherty, Sr., Rumson-Fair Haven
Doherty was an outstanding cover corner for the Bulldogs and did not allow a reception longer than eight yards all season. He finished with 46 tackles and three interceptions for a Rumson defense that was No. 1 in the Shore allowing just 6.8 points per game. Doherty’s play helped Rumson go 9-2, win the American Division title, reach its eighth straight sectional final, and finish No. 3 in the SSN Top 10.
DB – Jake Davis, Sr., Wall
Davis made 43 total tackles and intercepted a pass as Wall’s strong safety and was also the Crimson Knights’ quarterback, rushing for 685 yards and two touchdowns on an average of 7.4 yards per carry and throwing four touchdown passes. He will continue his career at The University of Pennsylvania.
DB – Justin Kurc, Sr., Brick
Kurc’s four interceptions tied for second-most in the Shore Conference and he added three forced fumbles and a blocked kick. He also had two touchdown catches and a touchdown run.
DB – Jeremiah Pruitt, So., Toms River North
Pruitt had 89 tackles and two interceptions in the secondary and also caught 19 passes for 311 yards and three touchdowns to help the Mariners reach the South Jersey Group 5 sectional final and finish No. 6 in the SSN Top 10.
DB – Matt Cassidy, So., Marlboro
Cassidy had a superb sophomore season with a team-high 111 tackles, including 76 solo tackles and 14 tackles for loss, and also tied for the team lead with three interceptions. He added 13 receptions for 158 yards and two touchdowns as a wide receiver. His play helped Marlboro go 7-3 for its first winning season since 1999.
DB - Rylan Fegan, Sr., Shore Regional - FINAL VOTE WINNER
Fegan made 31 tackles and tied for second in the Shore Conference with four interceptions to help the Blue Devils go 7-4 and reach the South Jersey Group 1 sectional semifinals.
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