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Ben Shue: A THREE-SPORT STAR SHINES IN CRUSADER COUNTRY

May 01, 2025

Ben Shue’s incredibly successful career in BC football, wrestling and track & field.Being a successful student-athlete at Bergen Catholic is not the easiest thing to achieve, let alone being a standout in three different sports, but for BC’s Ben Shue ’25, he was able to carve out a unique legacy as a champion Crusader in all of his sports and has left his mark in Crusader Country as one of the most accomplished student-athletes to ever wear the scarlet & gold. Ben Shue will go down as the greatest thrower in Bergen Catholic track & field history, having won the 2024 New Balance National Championship in the discus, in addition to winning a New Jersey state title in the same event as a junior. For his incredible accomplishments, Shue was honored by being named New Jersey’s 2023-2024 Gatorade Boys Track & Field Player of the Year, becoming only the third Bergen Catholic student-athlete to ever earn Gatorade Player of the Year honors alongside Alecko Eskandarian ’00 (1999-2000 National Boys Soccer Player of the Year) and Jonathan Germano ’13 (2012-2013 NJ Football Player of the Year). Shue will be taking his throwing talents to Austin, Texas, to compete as a member of the University of Texas Longhorns track & field program, one of the best programs in the entire nation, and a school that routinely produces U.S. Summer Olympians. “Ben is the epitome of what a Bergen Catholic student-athlete represents and is a great role model for all current and future students,” says BC Athletic Director Brendan McGovern ’10. “Ben’s dedication, discipline, and passion for not only each sport, but also his academics, makes him an inspiring example of what it means to push your limits and embrace challenges.”Most people would sign-up to be an all-time great at just one sport, but Shue’s athletic prowess and championship pedigree were also evident on the football gridiron and wrestling mat. Shue served as one of the anchors on the Crusader offensive line that paved the way for the 2024 Non-Public A state championship and will leave as part of the winningest class of football players in Bergen Catholic history, having earned 4-straight state titles in their times in Crusader Country. On the wrestling mat, Shue was crowned a county and region champion during his senior season and has been a mainstay on the podium down in Atlantic City, twice finishing 4th overall in New Jersey at 285 lbs. With Shue’s capable senior leadership, the Crusaders claimed their 21st Bergen County team title in program history, and helped re-establish BC as a top tier wrestling program in the Garden State. While his time as a Bergen Catholic student-athlete is coming to an end this spring, Ben Shue’s reputation as one of the most accomplished and decorated athletes in school history will forever be remembered for his legacy of leadership, something that can be seen in both his academic and athletic careers in Oradell. Shue reflects on his run of incredible success in his normal humble fashion. “Just doing a sport here at BC is difficult, let alone two or three,” says Shue. “I knew it was going to be difficult, but that just made the end reward so much sweeter. I just think being a studentathlete and always focusing on my work and my sports is a legacy I’d like to leave behind.” Few Bergen Catholic student-athletes have been able to accomplish as much while walking the hallways in Crusader Country than Ben Shue has. He is a national champion, a member of state title winning teams, and someone who proudly represented the Bergen Catholic Brotherhood every step of the way to his crusade to greatness.

Sanaii Mayers named Player of the Week

Apr 24, 2025

Big Central ConferenceSanaii Mayers, QB/DB, Elizabeth, So.Everywhere you looked during Elizabeth’s last two games, Mayers was making plays left and right. The sophomore threw for a season-high 213 yards and four touchdowns to lead the Minutemen to a 28-6 victory over Roselle on April 17. She also had two interceptions in the contest, helping her tie Burlington Township’s Layla Fink for a state-leading seven interceptions this spring. Mayers added a five-touchdown performance during the team’s 52-0 win over J.P. Stevens on April 21, giving her 25 total touchdowns for the season.

Simonka Fires No-Hitter as Steinert Blanks Bordentown

Apr 14, 2025

Photo Credit Joe Warner | For NJ Advance MediaSimonka Spins No-Hitter as No. 2 Steinert Shuts Out Bordentown Katie Simonka was untouchable in the circle on April 14, tossing a complete game no-hitter to lead No. 2-ranked Steinert to a 2-0 victory over Bordentown. The senior ace struck out 14 batters, walked just two, and allowed no hits across seven dominant innings, improving her record to 12-1 with a perfect 0.00 ERA. Steinert scored both of its runs in the third inning. Aleiya O’Neal delivered an RBI single, while Mia Pope contributed an RBI double to give the Spartans all the offense they needed. Despite a strong outing from Bordentown’s Katelin Hoppe—who allowed just two hits and one earned run over six innings.

SOFTBALL

Amelia Plescia hits a homerun on her way to 100 hits

May 03, 2025

Old Tappan's Amelia Plescia Reaches 100 Career Hits with a Home Run Amelia Plescia, a standout shortstop for Northern Valley Regional High School at Old Tappan, recently achieved a significant milestone by recording her 100th career hit—a home run. The accomplishment was celebrated by the school's softball team, highlighting Plescia's impressive feat. Her 100th hit not only marks a personal achievement but also underscores her consistent performance and dedication to the sport. As the season progresses, Plescia's experience and leadership are expected to continue playing a vital role in Old Tappan's pursuit of excellence on the softball field. Congratulations to Amelia Plescia on reaching this remarkable milestone!

Jamie Farrington Joins Elite Club with 400th Career Strikeout

Apr 28, 2025

Jamie Farrington, a standout pitcher for Old Tappan High School's softball team, has reached a significant milestone by achieving 400 career strikeouts. In a dominant performance against Demarest on April 22, 2024, Farrington pitched a complete game shutout, allowing only two hits and striking out 13 batters, leading Old Tappan to a 10–0 victory. This achievement underscores Farrington's exceptional skill and consistency on the mound. Her ability to control games and neutralize opposing hitters has been a cornerstone of Old Tappan's success. With a current season record of a perfect 10–0 in the Big North – National division, the team is well-positioned for a strong postseason run, bolstered by Farrington's leadership and pitching prowess. Farrington's milestone not only highlights her personal dedication and talent but also serves as an inspiration to her teammates and aspiring athletes in the community. As she continues to build on this impressive record, her contributions remain integral to Old Tappan's ongoing success on the field.

#1 Steinert Overpowers #18 Paul VI Behind Pope and Miller

Apr 22, 2025

Steinert uses big bats and strong relief to down Paul VI, 9-3 Top-ranked Steinert showed why they’re New Jersey’s No. 1 team, powering past No. 18 Paul VI, 9-3, in a battle between state softball heavyweights. The Spartans collected 12 hits, with standout games from Ellie Miller (2-for-2, 2 runs), Mia Pope (2-for-3, 4 RBIs), and Gianna DiMeglio (2-for-2, 2 runs, RBI). Steinert’s offense was consistent throughout, as they matched Paul VI by stranding seven runners but capitalized on their chances, plating runs in three key innings. On the mound, Katie Simonka and Ellie Miller combined to limit Paul VI to six hits. Miller came on in relief to earn the win, tossing four shutout innings with three strikeouts. Paul VI was led by Jules Jackson, who went 3-for-4, but they struggled to break through after a three-run fourth inning. Defensively, Steinert overcame three errors, while Paul VI was cleaner with just one miscue. Both teams left seven runners on base, but Steinert made their hits count, and Miller shut the door late to secure the victory. The win keeps Steinert rolling at 7-1, while Paul VI slips to 6-2.Key Game Stats Steinert totaled 12 hits as a team, while Paul VI managed 6. Mia Pope (Steinert): 2-for-3, 4 RBIs, 1 run scored. Ellie Miller (Steinert): 2-for-2, 2 runs, 1 walk; pitched 4 scoreless innings in relief with 3 strikeouts. Gianna DiMeglio (Steinert): 2-for-2, 2 runs scored, 1 RBI. Jules Jackson (Paul VI): 3-for-4, including a double. Danielle Audet (Paul VI): 1-for-3, 2 RBIs, 1 run scored. Both teams left 7 runners on base. Steinert committed 3 errors; Paul VI had 1 error. Winning pitcher: Ellie Miller (Steinert) Losing pitcher: Camryn Strother (Paul VI), allowed 9 runs (8 earned) over 4.1 innings. Steinert improves to 7-1; Paul VI falls to 6-2.

OUTDOOR TRACK

Old Tappan's Joley Giordano Claims First Place in Discus at Big North Championships

May 02, 2025

Giordano Claims First Place in Discus at Big North Championships On May 2, 2025, at the Big North Championships held at Northern Valley Regional High School at Demarest, Joley Giordano of Old Tappan High School secured first place in the discus throw for the National Division. This victory highlights her exceptional talent and dedication to the sport. Giordano's performance not only earned her the top spot but also contributed significantly to Old Tappan's overall success in the meet. Her achievement reflects the strength of the school's track and field program and sets a high standard. As the season progresses, Giordano's accomplishment positions her as a formidable competitor in upcoming regional and state-level competitions.

Jada Giordano Shines as Ramapo Wins Big North Freedom Division Title

May 02, 2025

At the Big North Championships – Freedom Division on May 2, 2025, held at Northern Valley Regional High School at Demarest, Ramapo High School junior Jada Giordano delivered a standout performance in the high jump. She cleared a height of 4 feet 10 inches, securing a top finish in the event for the Freedom Division. This achievement contributed valuable points to Ramapo's overall team score, helping the Raiders clinch the team title with a commanding 115 points. Jada also competed in three other events. Triple Jump: With a leap of 32 feet 8.75 inches, showcasing her technical prowess and consistency. Discus Throw: She achieved a new personal best throw. Javelin Throw: Giordano's performance fell a little short of her personal record of 89 feet, with a throw of 80 feet.

Shue is Ready for Penn Relays

Apr 23, 2025

Bergen Catholic’s Benjamin Shue is on the verge of something special at this year’s Penn Relays. While Shue has already built an incredible resume with medals in each of his first three years, he’s still chasing that breakthrough Penn Relays title—and this could be the year he gets it done for New Jersey. With last year’s champion out of the field, Shue has a real shot, and if he can unleash a monster PR, he could not only capture the win but also put his name alongside some of the all-time greats from the Garden State. Shue has already thrown 200-1 this season despite still working his way back into top form after wrestling, and with his best yet to come, he could very well bring home a long-awaited Penn Relays championship for New Jersey.

VOLLEYBALL

Markle and Lapinski Lead Old Bridge Past Southern in High-Drama Match

Apr 19, 2025

Photo Credit Dave Hernandez | For NJ AdvanceTop-ranked Old Bridge outlasted No. 2 Southern Regional in a thrilling five-set battle, as the two rivals delivered another classic matchup between New Jersey boys volleyball powerhouses. With the gym packed and the energy electric, Old Bridge leaned on the firepower of Oskar Lapinski and Adrian Marke, who each tallied 16 kills to help push the Knights over the top. Setter Troy Markle was the engine behind the offense, racking up 48 assists while also chipping in defensively with 7 digs. Old Bridge’s net play and relentless effort on both sides of the ball proved to be the difference in a showdown that showcased the best of Garden State volleyball.Southern kept pace throughout, responding with a balanced attack led by Aiden Krinic’s 14 kills and the steady setting of Logan Homme, who finished with 38 assists and 6 digs. The Rams matched Old Bridge point for point behind strong defensive play, notching 51 digs as a team and getting big contributions from Jonah Krinic and Van Miller at the net. In the end, however, Old Bridge found a way to seize the momentum in the decisive fifth set, clinching a statement victory and maintaining their hold on the No. 1 ranking. The match reaffirmed the fierce rivalry between these teams and set the stage for a possible postseason rematch. Team Highlights:Old Bridge:Kills: 58 total, with standout performances by Oskar Lapinski and Adrian Marke, each contributing 16 kills. Assists: Troy Markle led with 48 assists, orchestrating the team's offensive plays. Digs: The team accumulated 48 digs, with contributions from multiple players. Blocks: 15 total blocks, showcasing their defensive efforts at the net. Service Points and Aces: 37 service points and 3 aces, indicating effective serving throughout the match. Southern Regional:Kills: 40 total, with Aiden Krinic leading at 14 kills, followed by Van Miller with 10. Assists: Logan Homme orchestrated the offense with 38 assists. Digs: The team recorded 51 digs, demonstrating strong defensive coverage. Blocks: 11 total blocks, contributing to their defensive strength. Service Points and Aces: 38 service points and 2 aces.

Old Bridge Volleyball Still UNDEFEATED

Apr 01, 2025

Old Bridge put together a strong all-around performance to defeat Monroe 2-0 in boys volleyball action. Oskar Lapinski led the charge with 6 kills and a block, while Troy Markle kept the offense flowing with 18 assists and had 11 service points.. Logan Fernandes also made a key impact, contributing with 5 kills and helping anchor Old Bridge’s consistent play. With solid execution and teamwork, Old Bridge continues to build momentum as the season has just started.

Undefeated State Champs

Nov 22, 2024

Last pictures of the season with the Undefeated State Champs. For the first time since 2017, Old Tappan - ranked No. 4 in the NJ.com Top 20 - is a state champion. The Golden Knights’ 25-20, 25-11 tally over No. 9 Gov. Livingston in the NJSIAA Group 2 state finals on Sunday, Nov. 17 at Franklin High School capped one of the most incredible campaigns in program history, closing out the year with an unblemished 25-0 record.

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