Don Bosco baseball coach Mike Stanton said his everyday lineup basically is a work in progress.
The Ironmen still are a little rough around the edges, prone to the kind of mistakes you'd expect from a team breaking in a bevy of new regulars. Put Boston College-bound senior Eric Stevens on the mound, however, and it's not hard to imagine what the finished product is going to look like.
That's because Stevens is one of those pitchers who makes growing pains seem almost invisible. He threw a gem Monday, scattering three hits and striking out 11 as the Ironmen, ranked No. 3 in the North Jersey Top 25, beat No. 6 Wayne Hills, 11-1, in a six-inning NJTCC matchup.
"I like leading the team and setting an example," Stevens said. "The young guys are starting to step up big, and the key seniors are coming through.
"Losing on opening day [to Paramus] was a good wakeup call. We've put together a nice string of games since then."
The Ironmen (5-1) have won five straight, and face one of their biggest tests of the season Saturday when they travel to state powerhouse Delbarton. Stevens (2-1) is penciled in for that start, and this game was a good warmup.
The Patriots (5-1) had no answer for Stevens' hard sinker. They didn't hit a ball in the air the entire game, and scored only one unearned run in the top of the sixth inning.
"I felt good," Stevens said. "What really helped was the offense getting six runs in the first inning. When the offense puts runs on the board like that, it's a big help because, as a pitcher, you can attack the zone more."
Even Wayne Hills coach Chris Ianneillo admitted that his team may have come out a little tight in the Patriots' first game against the Ironmen. Bosco had only three hits in the first inning, but were helped out by two errors, two walks and a fielder's choice on a line drive that struck the umpire.
"I think we were trying to do too much," said Ianneillo, whose team faces No. 1 Paramus on Wednesday "Maybe we were too fired up."
Second baseman George Iskenderian had the big blow in the first, a bases-loaded triple that made it 5-0. Stevens had two hits and an RBI, and Matt Dacey, an impressive sophomore first baseman who seems to have a good eye at the plate, added two hits and two RBI.
BY MARK J. CZERWINSKI
Photo Credit: CARMINE GALASSO
For the entire story go to The Record...
Don Bosco baseball coach Mike Stanton said his everyday lineup basically is a work in progress.
The Ironmen still are a little rough around the edges, prone to the kind of mistakes you'd expect from a team breaking in a bevy of new regulars. Put Boston College-bound senior Eric Stevens on the mound, however, and it's not hard to imagine what the finished product is going to look like.
That's because Stevens is one of those pitchers who makes growing pains seem almost invisible. He threw a gem Monday, scattering three hits and striking out 11 as the Ironmen, ranked No. 3 in the North Jersey Top 25, beat No. 6 Wayne Hills, 11-1, in a six-inning NJTCC matchup.
"I like leading the team and setting an example," Stevens said. "The young guys are starting to step up big, and the key seniors are coming through.
"Losing on opening day [to Paramus] was a good wakeup call. We've put together a nice string of games since then."
The Ironmen (5-1) have won five straight, and face one of their biggest tests of the season Saturday when they travel to state powerhouse Delbarton. Stevens (2-1) is penciled in for that start, and this game was a good warmup.
The Patriots (5-1) had no answer for Stevens' hard sinker. They didn't hit a ball in the air the entire game, and scored only one unearned run in the top of the sixth inning.
"I felt good," Stevens said. "What really helped was the offense getting six runs in the first inning. When the offense puts runs on the board like that, it's a big help because, as a pitcher, you can attack the zone more."
Even Wayne Hills coach Chris Ianneillo admitted that his team may have come out a little tight in the Patriots' first game against the Ironmen. Bosco had only three hits in the first inning, but were helped out by two errors, two walks and a fielder's choice on a line drive that struck the umpire.
"I think we were trying to do too much," said Ianneillo, whose team faces No. 1 Paramus on Wednesday "Maybe we were too fired up."
Second baseman George Iskenderian had the big blow in the first, a bases-loaded triple that made it 5-0. Stevens had two hits and an RBI, and Matt Dacey, an impressive sophomore first baseman who seems to have a good eye at the plate, added two hits and two RBI.
BY MARK J. CZERWINSKI
Photo Credit: CARMINE GALASSO
For the entire story go to The Record...
Rich Zawacki still remembers the time in 1972 when he was all but drafted to take over the tennis team at Don Bosco.
Rich Zawacki, who coaches bowling and tennis at Don Bosco, could earn his 600th tennis victory later this week.
"I remember one of the seniors coming up to me in the hallway," said Zawacki, who was right out of college and more interested in going to law school than coaching. "He said 'I hear you're taking over the tennis program. Do you know how to play?' "
Apparently, he knew enough.
Zawacki, who played varsity tennis at Bloomfield College, has 598 career wins as a tennis coach after Monday's 3-2 loss to Wayne Hills and could hit the 600 mark sometime this week. The Ironmen (2-1) host Wayne Valley at Ramapo College today, travel to Passaic on Wednesday and host Passaic Tech on Friday.
It would be the latest milestone in a brilliant coaching career for the Bosco alum that has spanned more then 38 years and three sports at the school.
"It's just fun," said Zawacki, 61, who also won 331 career games as the soccer coach before retiring in 1996. "There's a bond that develops between players and their coach that I enjoy. People tell me that I look young. It's because dealing with youth keeps you young."
Since 1972, Zawacki-coached teams have won more than 1,000 events in tennis, soccer and bowling. His teams have brought home seven State championships, 15 sectional titles and seven Bergen County titles, and he has never had a losing season in soccer or tennis.
"Whether it's soccer, bowling or tennis, his accomplishments simply mirror his passion," said senior Chris Minor, a four-year varsity starter at singles for the Ironmen.
"It's funny because you'll be sitting in his class and he'll say 'Hey, I coached your dad,' " senior Mike Kelly said. "You appreciate that he's been around so long and so successful that he must be a good coach."
And the memories come pouring out when you talk to him.
He talks about the Ironmen's first State soccer championship when they blanked Christian Brothers, 4-0, in 1979, just two years after he took over the fledgling program. One of his captains when he took over the program was eventual Bosco coach Roy Nygren.
"They were coached by Danny Kane who also coached the tennis team that kicked our butts every year [six times in the State final]," said Zawacki, whose only experience in soccer had come in college when his friends needed another body to play indoors.
His eyes light up when he remembers Bosco's second State bowling championship in 1993, when the Ironmen rolled 1,200 in the third and final game to come back from third place to win.
"Chris Mallo, who was averaging about 160 on the JV, bowled 266 that game to lead us," he said. "It was like chasing a dream. I'll never forget it."
In tennis, he talks about players such as Dan Sauter, whom he calls probably the best singles player to come through Bosco in his time, and Chris Riccobono, who won Bosco's first Bergen singles championship in 1997.
BY GREGORY SCHUTTA
Photo Credit: TYSON TRISH
To Read more go to The Record...
Rich Zawacki still remembers the time in 1972 when he was all but drafted to take over the tennis team at Don Bosco.
Rich Zawacki, who coaches bowling and tennis at Don Bosco, could earn his 600th tennis victory later this week.
"I remember one of the seniors coming up to me in the hallway," said Zawacki, who was right out of college and more interested in going to law school than coaching. "He said 'I hear you're taking over the tennis program. Do you know how to play?' "
Apparently, he knew enough.
Zawacki, who played varsity tennis at Bloomfield College, has 598 career wins as a tennis coach after Monday's 3-2 loss to Wayne Hills and could hit the 600 mark sometime this week. The Ironmen (2-1) host Wayne Valley at Ramapo College today, travel to Passaic on Wednesday and host Passaic Tech on Friday.
It would be the latest milestone in a brilliant coaching career for the Bosco alum that has spanned more then 38 years and three sports at the school.
"It's just fun," said Zawacki, 61, who also won 331 career games as the soccer coach before retiring in 1996. "There's a bond that develops between players and their coach that I enjoy. People tell me that I look young. It's because dealing with youth keeps you young."
Since 1972, Zawacki-coached teams have won more than 1,000 events in tennis, soccer and bowling. His teams have brought home seven State championships, 15 sectional titles and seven Bergen County titles, and he has never had a losing season in soccer or tennis.
"Whether it's soccer, bowling or tennis, his accomplishments simply mirror his passion," said senior Chris Minor, a four-year varsity starter at singles for the Ironmen.
"It's funny because you'll be sitting in his class and he'll say 'Hey, I coached your dad,' " senior Mike Kelly said. "You appreciate that he's been around so long and so successful that he must be a good coach."
And the memories come pouring out when you talk to him.
He talks about the Ironmen's first State soccer championship when they blanked Christian Brothers, 4-0, in 1979, just two years after he took over the fledgling program. One of his captains when he took over the program was eventual Bosco coach Roy Nygren.
"They were coached by Danny Kane who also coached the tennis team that kicked our butts every year [six times in the State final]," said Zawacki, whose only experience in soccer had come in college when his friends needed another body to play indoors.
His eyes light up when he remembers Bosco's second State bowling championship in 1993, when the Ironmen rolled 1,200 in the third and final game to come back from third place to win.
"Chris Mallo, who was averaging about 160 on the JV, bowled 266 that game to lead us," he said. "It was like chasing a dream. I'll never forget it."
In tennis, he talks about players such as Dan Sauter, whom he calls probably the best singles player to come through Bosco in his time, and Chris Riccobono, who won Bosco's first Bergen singles championship in 1997.
BY GREGORY SCHUTTA
Photo Credit: TYSON TRISH
To Read more go to The Record...
The Fair Lawn Cutters sweeped by Don Bosco 25-9, 25-18.
The Cutters (2-0), the No. 1 team in the preseason North Jersey Top 5, dominated the No. 3 Ironmen (0-2). They jumped out to a 7-1 advantage in the first game and never trailed afterward.
"A good win," said coach Pete Zisa, who nonetheless wasn’t happy with the effort in the second game. "But we got kind of lax and gave away too many free points, too many unnecessary points."
Zisa has high expectations for the Cutters, who won league and County titles in 2009 with a 26-3 record and a young lineup. They’re now starting six seniors — many of whom played key roles in last year’s run to the State tournament semifinals — and Zisa is hoping experience begets greater success, as often is the case in high school sports.
"I considered last year more of a rebuilding year. And we played really well," Zisa said. "So this year, I’m hoping we can take that experience and take it to the next level."
The Cutters flexed their experience against Don Bosco, which graduated much of the lineup that finished 24-8 last season, including standout setter Doug Battersby. Fair Lawn went on an 11-2 run to seal the first game, and then buried Don Bosco with a 15-9 run in the second game.
The Fair Lawn Cutters sweeped by Don Bosco 25-9, 25-18.
The Cutters (2-0), the No. 1 team in the preseason North Jersey Top 5, dominated the No. 3 Ironmen (0-2). They jumped out to a 7-1 advantage in the first game and never trailed afterward.
"A good win," said coach Pete Zisa, who nonetheless wasn’t happy with the effort in the second game. "But we got kind of lax and gave away too many free points, too many unnecessary points."
Zisa has high expectations for the Cutters, who won league and County titles in 2009 with a 26-3 record and a young lineup. They’re now starting six seniors — many of whom played key roles in last year’s run to the State tournament semifinals — and Zisa is hoping experience begets greater success, as often is the case in high school sports.
"I considered last year more of a rebuilding year. And we played really well," Zisa said. "So this year, I’m hoping we can take that experience and take it to the next level."
The Cutters flexed their experience against Don Bosco, which graduated much of the lineup that finished 24-8 last season, including standout setter Doug Battersby. Fair Lawn went on an 11-2 run to seal the first game, and then buried Don Bosco with a 15-9 run in the second game.
Lacrosse, track and field and volleyball looks to have successful year. All picked to be among the best in Bergen County.
Lacrosse, track and field and volleyball looks to have successful year. All picked to be among the best in Bergen County.
Mike Stanton has three World Series rings and pitched in countless big games throughout his remarkable 20-year professional baseball career.
His biggest challenge on the diamond in quite some time came just moments after his debut as the head coach at Don Bosco, Thursday’s 3-1 loss to Paramus. That’s when the 42-year-old former All-Star had to convince a dugout full of teenagers that one game does not make a season, even if it felt that way.
“Everybody’s going to lose at some point, and I think that’s the lesson you have to take from this,” Stanton said. “You’ve got to realize that what happened here with Don Bosco two years ago [an undefeated season] isn’t supposed to happen. Obviously, you want to win every game you play, like they did two seasons ago, but our inexperience showed.
“Sometimes you have to tip your hat to the other team.”
The game itself was a showdown between two of North Jersey’s best teams, but was also compelling because of the contrast of the two opposing coaches.
Two baseball men, for sure, from two completely different ends of the sport’s spectrum.
Stanton ended up in his first game as a head coach facing Paramus’ Joe Cervino, whose 29-year legacy includes 492 victories and numerous championships.
On this day, the veteran and one of the best public school programs around trumped the rookie with the big-league résumé and the non-public powerhouse now in his control.
“Oh yeah, I’d definitely give some of that up for one of his rings,” Cervino joked before the game. “I never made the big leagues, but I got to wear Lou Brock’s jersey in my one season in the minors with the Cardinals back in 1971.
“I had one season, but then I took a job coaching high school baseball and it’s been my life ever since.”
Experience was clearly decisive Thursday, with Paramus doing everything right during a fundamentally sound performance that spoiled opening day for Stanton and Don Bosco.
Senior left-hander Mike Epstein kept the Ironmen off balance by changing speeds for six-plus innings, giving way to junior right-hander Joey Szorentini, who shut down a Don Bosco threat in the top of the seventh to preserve the triumph.
READ MORE...
Picture courtesy of Carmine Galasso
Mike Stanton has three World Series rings and pitched in countless big games throughout his remarkable 20-year professional baseball career.
His biggest challenge on the diamond in quite some time came just moments after his debut as the head coach at Don Bosco, Thursday’s 3-1 loss to Paramus. That’s when the 42-year-old former All-Star had to convince a dugout full of teenagers that one game does not make a season, even if it felt that way.
“Everybody’s going to lose at some point, and I think that’s the lesson you have to take from this,” Stanton said. “You’ve got to realize that what happened here with Don Bosco two years ago [an undefeated season] isn’t supposed to happen. Obviously, you want to win every game you play, like they did two seasons ago, but our inexperience showed.
“Sometimes you have to tip your hat to the other team.”
The game itself was a showdown between two of North Jersey’s best teams, but was also compelling because of the contrast of the two opposing coaches.
Two baseball men, for sure, from two completely different ends of the sport’s spectrum.
Stanton ended up in his first game as a head coach facing Paramus’ Joe Cervino, whose 29-year legacy includes 492 victories and numerous championships.
On this day, the veteran and one of the best public school programs around trumped the rookie with the big-league résumé and the non-public powerhouse now in his control.
“Oh yeah, I’d definitely give some of that up for one of his rings,” Cervino joked before the game. “I never made the big leagues, but I got to wear Lou Brock’s jersey in my one season in the minors with the Cardinals back in 1971.
“I had one season, but then I took a job coaching high school baseball and it’s been my life ever since.”
Experience was clearly decisive Thursday, with Paramus doing everything right during a fundamentally sound performance that spoiled opening day for Stanton and Don Bosco.
Senior left-hander Mike Epstein kept the Ironmen off balance by changing speeds for six-plus innings, giving way to junior right-hander Joey Szorentini, who shut down a Don Bosco threat in the top of the seventh to preserve the triumph.
READ MORE...
Picture courtesy of Carmine Galasso
The baseball team kicks off the season with a #2 ranking. Memories of their undefeated season are still fresh, but first year coach Mike Stanton knows that their undefeated season is a memory. Bosco is very young and will rely on many underclassmen during the season.
1. St. Joseph (27-4)
2. Don Bosco (26-5)
3. Ramsey (22-6)
4. Pequannock (23-6)
5. Old Tappan (20-12)
6. Ramapo (22-10)
7. Paramus (21-8)
8. Pascack Valley (13-12-1)
9. St. Mary (21-7)
10. Indian Hills (19-9)
The baseball team kicks off the season with a #2 ranking. Memories of their undefeated season are still fresh, but first year coach Mike Stanton knows that their undefeated season is a memory. Bosco is very young and will rely on many underclassmen during the season.
1. St. Joseph (27-4)
2. Don Bosco (26-5)
3. Ramsey (22-6)
4. Pequannock (23-6)
5. Old Tappan (20-12)
6. Ramapo (22-10)
7. Paramus (21-8)
8. Pascack Valley (13-12-1)
9. St. Mary (21-7)
10. Indian Hills (19-9)
The goals for Don Bosco’s team this winter were modest. Without some of its better athletes competing in the winter, the Ironmen were lacking in the sprints and hurdles and depth was an issue.
"Our whole focus was to win the County Relays," coach Rob DeCarlo said.
"We circled it on the calendar and we didn’t care about the conference or anything else, and even then we were lucky to win that by one point."
But a few weeks later, the Ironmen added their first State indoor title since 1994 by winning the Non-Public A championship despite having no sprinter, hurdler or relay team in the finals.
That’s how Don Bosco became the North Jersey boys indoor track Team of the Year.
"Winning the State group was certainly a goal last year – in fact we thought we’d walk away with it and not winning was a huge disappointment," DeCarlo said. "But this year the kids said they were the most relaxed they ever were in a meet before we got to the State meet."
So Mike Belgiovine earned a pair of third-place finishes in the 800 and 1,600, and Rafael Vargas and Howie Rosas went 3-4 in the 3,200, performances expected of three members of the state’s best cross-country team.
The goals for Don Bosco’s team this winter were modest. Without some of its better athletes competing in the winter, the Ironmen were lacking in the sprints and hurdles and depth was an issue.
"Our whole focus was to win the County Relays," coach Rob DeCarlo said.
"We circled it on the calendar and we didn’t care about the conference or anything else, and even then we were lucky to win that by one point."
But a few weeks later, the Ironmen added their first State indoor title since 1994 by winning the Non-Public A championship despite having no sprinter, hurdler or relay team in the finals.
That’s how Don Bosco became the North Jersey boys indoor track Team of the Year.
"Winning the State group was certainly a goal last year – in fact we thought we’d walk away with it and not winning was a huge disappointment," DeCarlo said. "But this year the kids said they were the most relaxed they ever were in a meet before we got to the State meet."
So Mike Belgiovine earned a pair of third-place finishes in the 800 and 1,600, and Rafael Vargas and Howie Rosas went 3-4 in the 3,200, performances expected of three members of the state’s best cross-country team.
Basketball
Don Bosco Junior Vaughn Gray and his coach Kevin Diverio
As a junior- Vaughn was the highest rated player by the coaches in the "old NNJIL- or new state conference"
This is a tremendous honor in itself because of the level of competition night in and night out. At 6'5 Vaughn excels in the open court with his size and quickness. He averaged 21.4ppg 5.1 assists and 6.3 rebounds.
A three year varsity player and repeat first team all county selection.
Wrestling
119- junior, Joe Orecchio, Don Bosco, Coach Nunzio Campanile
(25-5) Joey Orecchio had another outstanding season for the Ironmen. Despite missing almost a month due to injuries Joe managed to win 25 matches this season. With an injured knee he placed 6th in the prestigious Beast of the east tournament. He followed that up with his 3rd district title and his 3rd region title. Joe finished his season with 2nd state medal, earning 4th place in the NJ state tournament. Joe is currently wrestling at the junior nationals, in preparation for his senior campaign as well as his college career. Only a junior Joey is on track to be the most decorated wrestler in Don Bosco history
140- sophomore, Sal Mastriani, Don Bosco, Coach Nunzio Campanile
(33-7) Only a sophomore Sal has amassed over 65 wins for his career. He placed 3rd in the BCCA, 2nd in the District, and won his 1st Region title. Sal made his 2nd trip to Atlantic City this season to cap a tremendous season. More importantly, Sal Mastriani is undoubtedly the hardest worker on the Don Bosco team. His toughness and work ethic were a major catalyst behind the ironmen earning their 1st team state championship. The Ironmen expect Sal to continue to lead them to great things in the next two years.
160- freshman, Frank Mattiace, Don Bosco, Coach Nunzio Campanile
(32-12) Frank Mattiace is the definition of perseverance and the beneficiary of hard work. Only a freshmen Frankie took some tough losses early the season and they benefited him greatly as the season went on. Frank placed 5th in the BCCA, 3rd in the District, 1st in the Region, and finally 6th in the NJ State tournament. Despite some heartbreaking losses Frank continued to believe in his abilities and worked harder every week. That work paid off in the end. Frank peaked at the end of the season and earned a medal in Atlantic City. A tremendous accomplishment for any freshmen, but astounding at 160lbs.
189- freshman, Razohan Gross, Don Bosco, Coach Nunzio Campanile
(26-8) Razohnn is another outstanding freshman for the Ironmen. Razohnn is another wrestler that steadily improved over the course of the season. Razohnn, placed 3rd in the BCCA, 1st in the Districts, and 1st in the Region. A gifted athlete, Razohnn combined raw talent with a tough aggressive style that often overwhelmed opponents. That style should continue to help Razohnn as he expands his wrestling arsenal. Also a football player Razohnn looks to be a 2 sport standout for Don Bosco next year.
Basketball
Don Bosco Junior Vaughn Gray and his coach Kevin Diverio
As a junior- Vaughn was the highest rated player by the coaches in the "old NNJIL- or new state conference"
This is a tremendous honor in itself because of the level of competition night in and night out. At 6'5 Vaughn excels in the open court with his size and quickness. He averaged 21.4ppg 5.1 assists and 6.3 rebounds.
A three year varsity player and repeat first team all county selection.
Wrestling
119- junior, Joe Orecchio, Don Bosco, Coach Nunzio Campanile
(25-5) Joey Orecchio had another outstanding season for the Ironmen. Despite missing almost a month due to injuries Joe managed to win 25 matches this season. With an injured knee he placed 6th in the prestigious Beast of the east tournament. He followed that up with his 3rd district title and his 3rd region title. Joe finished his season with 2nd state medal, earning 4th place in the NJ state tournament. Joe is currently wrestling at the junior nationals, in preparation for his senior campaign as well as his college career. Only a junior Joey is on track to be the most decorated wrestler in Don Bosco history
140- sophomore, Sal Mastriani, Don Bosco, Coach Nunzio Campanile
(33-7) Only a sophomore Sal has amassed over 65 wins for his career. He placed 3rd in the BCCA, 2nd in the District, and won his 1st Region title. Sal made his 2nd trip to Atlantic City this season to cap a tremendous season. More importantly, Sal Mastriani is undoubtedly the hardest worker on the Don Bosco team. His toughness and work ethic were a major catalyst behind the ironmen earning their 1st team state championship. The Ironmen expect Sal to continue to lead them to great things in the next two years.
160- freshman, Frank Mattiace, Don Bosco, Coach Nunzio Campanile
(32-12) Frank Mattiace is the definition of perseverance and the beneficiary of hard work. Only a freshmen Frankie took some tough losses early the season and they benefited him greatly as the season went on. Frank placed 5th in the BCCA, 3rd in the District, 1st in the Region, and finally 6th in the NJ State tournament. Despite some heartbreaking losses Frank continued to believe in his abilities and worked harder every week. That work paid off in the end. Frank peaked at the end of the season and earned a medal in Atlantic City. A tremendous accomplishment for any freshmen, but astounding at 160lbs.
189- freshman, Razohan Gross, Don Bosco, Coach Nunzio Campanile
(26-8) Razohnn is another outstanding freshman for the Ironmen. Razohnn is another wrestler that steadily improved over the course of the season. Razohnn, placed 3rd in the BCCA, 1st in the Districts, and 1st in the Region. A gifted athlete, Razohnn combined raw talent with a tough aggressive style that often overwhelmed opponents. That style should continue to help Razohnn as he expands his wrestling arsenal. Also a football player Razohnn looks to be a 2 sport standout for Don Bosco next year.
CONNOR LEEN, Don Bosco — A four-year varsity player, this senior overcame the leg injuries that plagued his junior year to become the offensive threat that the Ironmen had been missing.
With 38 goals and 29 assists in the always-tough Gordon Conference, Leen was instrumental in the 11-12-2 record that the Ironmen compiled. He scored at least one goal in 19 of the 21 games he played, displaying excellent speed in getting to the net as well as a strong shot from the point in.
Leen closed out his career with 58 goals, 65 assists and 123 points.
Bergen Record
CONNOR LEEN, Don Bosco — A four-year varsity player, this senior overcame the leg injuries that plagued his junior year to become the offensive threat that the Ironmen had been missing.
With 38 goals and 29 assists in the always-tough Gordon Conference, Leen was instrumental in the 11-12-2 record that the Ironmen compiled. He scored at least one goal in 19 of the 21 games he played, displaying excellent speed in getting to the net as well as a strong shot from the point in.
Leen closed out his career with 58 goals, 65 assists and 123 points.
Bergen Record
Former New York Yankees pitcher Mike Stanton takes over the reins of one of New Jersey top rated programs. The Ironmen have a preseason ranking of 2, according to the Bergen Record, but are looking to replace the familiar names that were a mainstay in the lineup over the last couple of years. Eric Stevens, a Boston College recruit, will be the ace of the staff, but their will be contributions from many, which include Michael Gomez, Joe McNamara, Jordan Gross, Tyler Mitts and Steve Lombardi.
The position players are led by catcher Ken O’Donnell and OF Nick Bruno, but should get some help from Matt Dacy and Grant Van Orden, both sophomores.
Former New York Yankees pitcher Mike Stanton takes over the reins of one of New Jersey top rated programs. The Ironmen have a preseason ranking of 2, according to the Bergen Record, but are looking to replace the familiar names that were a mainstay in the lineup over the last couple of years. Eric Stevens, a Boston College recruit, will be the ace of the staff, but their will be contributions from many, which include Michael Gomez, Joe McNamara, Jordan Gross, Tyler Mitts and Steve Lombardi.
The position players are led by catcher Ken O’Donnell and OF Nick Bruno, but should get some help from Matt Dacy and Grant Van Orden, both sophomores.
Seniors Howie Rosas, Michael Belgiovine, Rafael Vargas, and junior, Phelan McCormack, took second in the 4 mile relay this past weekend at the National Scholastic Track and Field Championships in NYC. These championships are the high school indoor track nationals. Congratulations Ironmen and coaches!
Photo credit: John Nepolitan
Seniors Howie Rosas, Michael Belgiovine, Rafael Vargas, and junior, Phelan McCormack, took second in the 4 mile relay this past weekend at the National Scholastic Track and Field Championships in NYC. These championships are the high school indoor track nationals. Congratulations Ironmen and coaches!
Photo credit: John Nepolitan
Ramsey, NJ – Brian McAleer has been named Athletic Director of Don Bosco Prep, announced John Stanczak, principal of the school.
The 33-year-old Waldwick resident, who has been the Admissions Director for Don Bosco Prep for the past eleven (11) years, was the top choice for the position because of his proven record in the school’s administration, and his knowledgeable leadership in the spiritual, scholastic, and athletic aspects of the school.
“Brian understands the mission and philosophy of Don Bosco Prep, and he understands how athletics fits in with the larger picture of the school,” Stanczak stated. “He is someone who has had extensive experience with the students and parents within the community. Coupled with his gifts and talents as a coach, and his excellent relationships with our coaching staff, we have confidence in his abilities as athletic director.”
Brian McAleer was raised in West Nyack, NY, and attended high school at Albertus Magnus and Don Bosco Prep, where he played lacrosse and football. He is a graduate of St Joseph’s University, Philadelphia, PA, where he earned a bachelor's degree in 1999. Upon graduation, he was hired as admissions director at Don Bosco Prep. For the past ten (10) seasons, he has also served as freshman lacrosse coach, and founded the annual Tri-state Connor Corish Freshman Lacrosse Tournament.
McAleer is both enthusiastic and honored to take the reins of Don Bosco’s athletic program, which was named the top program in New Jersey last year by the National Collegiate Scouting Association and SI.com, and the 9th rated athletic program in the nation by Sports Illustrated. “We have exceptional coaches, and I want to continue to move Don Bosco Prep ahead in athletics and student involvement in sports,” McAleer said.
With last season’s Don Bosco Prep football Ironmen having been rated the top high school team in the nation by USA Today, ESPN Rise, Max Preps, and the National Prep Football Poll, and with storied teams in baseball, track, basketball, and skiing among the 18 sports offered, McAleer says he is thrilled with the opportunity being offered him, "I am very excited about the opportunity to develop an athletic program that will not only teach students about athletics at such a prestigious institution, but develop them as future leaders as well".
McAleer is expected to move into the position of athletic director by the end of the current school year.
Ramsey, NJ – Brian McAleer has been named Athletic Director of Don Bosco Prep, announced John Stanczak, principal of the school.
The 33-year-old Waldwick resident, who has been the Admissions Director for Don Bosco Prep for the past eleven (11) years, was the top choice for the position because of his proven record in the school’s administration, and his knowledgeable leadership in the spiritual, scholastic, and athletic aspects of the school.
“Brian understands the mission and philosophy of Don Bosco Prep, and he understands how athletics fits in with the larger picture of the school,” Stanczak stated. “He is someone who has had extensive experience with the students and parents within the community. Coupled with his gifts and talents as a coach, and his excellent relationships with our coaching staff, we have confidence in his abilities as athletic director.”
Brian McAleer was raised in West Nyack, NY, and attended high school at Albertus Magnus and Don Bosco Prep, where he played lacrosse and football. He is a graduate of St Joseph’s University, Philadelphia, PA, where he earned a bachelor's degree in 1999. Upon graduation, he was hired as admissions director at Don Bosco Prep. For the past ten (10) seasons, he has also served as freshman lacrosse coach, and founded the annual Tri-state Connor Corish Freshman Lacrosse Tournament.
McAleer is both enthusiastic and honored to take the reins of Don Bosco’s athletic program, which was named the top program in New Jersey last year by the National Collegiate Scouting Association and SI.com, and the 9th rated athletic program in the nation by Sports Illustrated. “We have exceptional coaches, and I want to continue to move Don Bosco Prep ahead in athletics and student involvement in sports,” McAleer said.
With last season’s Don Bosco Prep football Ironmen having been rated the top high school team in the nation by USA Today, ESPN Rise, Max Preps, and the National Prep Football Poll, and with storied teams in baseball, track, basketball, and skiing among the 18 sports offered, McAleer says he is thrilled with the opportunity being offered him, "I am very excited about the opportunity to develop an athletic program that will not only teach students about athletics at such a prestigious institution, but develop them as future leaders as well".
McAleer is expected to move into the position of athletic director by the end of the current school year.
The constantly increasing number of interested athletes and parents proves that Ironmen rowing is bigger than ever at Don Bosco Prep! Since it's inception in 2003, our crew has amassed a fleet of over 10 boats, 2 prestigious Stotesbury Cup gold medals, and one national championship gold medal. From a small team of about a dozen hopeful oarsmen and one dedicated coach, we have built a program that spans two separate seasons and offers the opportunity for both recreational and serious competitive rowers to belong to Ironmen crew. In 2006, we put on our first ever club sponsored fall season at Bosco. Over 35 experienced and novice rowers & coxswains signed up to be a part of our maiden fall program. It was an instant success and we are thrilled to be able continue offering as part of the DBP crew experience. Focusing on the technical aspects of rowing, and building a solid learn to row program for incoming freshmen, we have approximately 8 weeks of club rowing spanning the months of September and October. During the Spring Varsity season, our focus shifts gears to the competitive aspects of the sport. More frequent and intense practices set the stage for success at local and national regattas, as well as the opportunity for our athletes to earn their Varsity letter in the sport of rowing.
The coaching staff of Don Bosco extends an invitation to anyone that wishes to learn more about crew, to contact us for more information. Rowing is a unique and often misrepresented sport. However, with a history rooted in Ivy league institutions, it has a regal past and promising future. Universities such as Columbia, Northwestern, Princeton, Harvard & Yale often recruit high school students for their crew teams, offering many full and partial scholarships. Often overshadowed by mainstream sports such as football, basketball and baseball, crew offers a foothold into some of the most academically acclaimed colleges. If you are interested in this classic sport, please come down to our dock site and check it out. We row on the Passaic river and launch from the Bergen County park located in North Arlington. It's about a 30 minute drive south of the school. Please see our contact page if you'd like to reach out to one of the coaching staff or our Oarsmen Club booster officers.
The constantly increasing number of interested athletes and parents proves that Ironmen rowing is bigger than ever at Don Bosco Prep! Since it's inception in 2003, our crew has amassed a fleet of over 10 boats, 2 prestigious Stotesbury Cup gold medals, and one national championship gold medal. From a small team of about a dozen hopeful oarsmen and one dedicated coach, we have built a program that spans two separate seasons and offers the opportunity for both recreational and serious competitive rowers to belong to Ironmen crew. In 2006, we put on our first ever club sponsored fall season at Bosco. Over 35 experienced and novice rowers & coxswains signed up to be a part of our maiden fall program. It was an instant success and we are thrilled to be able continue offering as part of the DBP crew experience. Focusing on the technical aspects of rowing, and building a solid learn to row program for incoming freshmen, we have approximately 8 weeks of club rowing spanning the months of September and October. During the Spring Varsity season, our focus shifts gears to the competitive aspects of the sport. More frequent and intense practices set the stage for success at local and national regattas, as well as the opportunity for our athletes to earn their Varsity letter in the sport of rowing.
The coaching staff of Don Bosco extends an invitation to anyone that wishes to learn more about crew, to contact us for more information. Rowing is a unique and often misrepresented sport. However, with a history rooted in Ivy league institutions, it has a regal past and promising future. Universities such as Columbia, Northwestern, Princeton, Harvard & Yale often recruit high school students for their crew teams, offering many full and partial scholarships. Often overshadowed by mainstream sports such as football, basketball and baseball, crew offers a foothold into some of the most academically acclaimed colleges. If you are interested in this classic sport, please come down to our dock site and check it out. We row on the Passaic river and launch from the Bergen County park located in North Arlington. It's about a 30 minute drive south of the school. Please see our contact page if you'd like to reach out to one of the coaching staff or our Oarsmen Club booster officers.
