The Golden Eagle Gazette

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Spring Break trip has students exclaiming “Vive la France!”

Exploring the Louvre Museum, strolling through the halls of the Palace of Versailles and exploring the beauty of the Bordeaux regions isn’t a bad vacation.

That’s how 18 Central Regional High School students spent their spring break – a 10-day tour of France including Paris, the French Riviera and even a day in the Basque region of Spain.

“Next we traveled to southern France and explored different beach towns along the Mediterranean,” said Sara Kamienski, CRHS French teacher who led the trip. “If you looked one way, you saw the beautiful blue waters and then the other was the breathtaking mountain ranges in the distance.”

The tour culminated with visits to Nice, Monaco and the famous Fragonard perfumery.

For those who missed this trip, Kamienski is planning a spring break trip to France in 2027 which will include stops in Strasbourg, Lyon, Provence and the French Riviera.

“If you are sad that you missed this one, then join our trip in 2027 to experience this amazing country,”

High School International Day Celebrates World Cultures

Central Regional High School students recently took a tour of the world – no passport necessary.

In what has become an annual event, students and staffulty on April 4 celebrated International Day, transforming the corridors of the high school into vibrant displays reflecting the traditions, language, music and food of the spotlighted countries of Japan, Mexico, Saudi Arabia and Sweden. Teachers creatively aligned the day’s lesson plans with the countries featured, offering students a cross-curricular global experience.

The brainchild of Assistant Principal Irene Marousis, the event was first held in 2022 and has blossomed into one of the most anticipated cultural events of the year. The organization of and preparation for the event involves staffulty and several school clubs and organizations including the National Honor Society, World Language Club, Drama Club, the Central Regional cafeteria staff and Assistant Principal Joseph Toth.

In the Media Center, the National Honor Society hosted a scavenger hunt, challenging students to uncover facts about each nation’s history, geography and customs. The Drama Club, led by Matthew Solomon and Megan Rafferty with the assistance of the tech crew and Rachel Iozzia, captivated students with a courtroom-style performance, where culture was humorously "put on trial," with the CRHS chorus led by Beth Moore all while educating the audience about the values, traditions and contributions of each country.

In the cafeteria, music from each nation played as the World Language Club ran a "Spin & Say" pronunciation game. Students spun a colorful wheel and attempted to correctly pronounce words from the four spotlighted nations. Those who succeeded were awarded with a

chance to win restaurant gift cards donated by U-House in Bayville, Koi and Royal 37 Grill both from Toms River.

The National Honor Society provided cultural flavor, handing out samples of popular snacks from each country as the cafeteria staff, led by Bruce Scarpulla, served up main courses from each of the highlighted countries.

Adding to the authenticity of the Mexican experience, social studies teacher Toni Sisia-Verissimo brought Frida Kahlo to life, donning traditional attire and handing out Mexican candy while sharing stories of the legendary artist’s life and work. She was joined by social studies teacher Kyle Watson as Diego Rivera, making the iconic artistic couple a hit among students and staff.

Thanks to support from the Central Regional Education Association (CREA), the World Language Club unveiled several traveling exhibits of Frida and Diego as well as Hokusai in the Media Center, creating a stunning centerpiece for the scavenger hunt. These vibrant art pieces which hung from the ceiling remained on display throughout the upcoming Art Show, continuing the celebration of international culture.

CRMS Creates Carnival Atmosphere to Celebrate World

Central Regional Middle School students transformed their classrooms into celebrations of world culture on May 27 for the Second Annual Culture Carnival.

The cultures of about 60 countries were represented during the event through vibrant displays, traditional attire, and a smorgasbord of world snacks and dishes.

“Each teacher does their own assignments, projects and activities,” said CRMS Assistant Princiapal Gabrielle Carney. “Kids who assist with decorating, cooking, or performing a dance are given extra credit in their class. They really do an amazing job and our staff is so creative. Their decorations are amazing.”

High School senior earns silver medal in New Jersey SkillsUSA Championships

Central Regional High School senior Kyle Colon spliced and wired his way to a silver medal in the New Jersey SkillsUSA Championships, which took place on Saturdays throughout March and April at various locations throughout Ocean, Gloucester, Essex, Cumberland and Somerset Counties. SkillsUSA is a national organization that provides quality educational experiences for students in leadership, teamwork, citizenship and character development.

Colon, a resident of Ocean Gate, N.J., is in the Electrical Trades program studying electrical construction wiring at Ocean County Vocational Technical School (OCVTS) in Toms River. He was one of about 100 OCVTS students participating in the competition.

The students competed in 39 different career-skills events against other high school and post-secondary students from all regions of New Jersey. Winners were announced during an awards ceremony on April 12 at Morris Knolls High School, Denville, N.J. OCVTS students received an astounding 29 medals overall: 8 gold, 13 silver and 8 bronze.

Ocean County Vocational Technical School offers over 30 career training programs for high school students and adults.

Central Regional Education Association Gives Back

The Central Regional Education Association (CREA) has had a busy year sponsoring or co-sponsoring various events in the Central Regional School District.

With the help of funding from the New Jersey Education Association’s Families and Schools Together Work for Children (FAST) and Public Education Partnership (PEP) grant programs, CREA helped make the following events possible this year:

• Meet the Candidates

• Paws ‘n Claws Pet Photos with Santa

• Special Olympics Athletic Recognition Luncheon

• CRMS Carnival

• Legally Blonde

• MusicFest XVII

• International Day

Thank you to all of the community members for visiting the CREA table and signing-in at each event. Community support is always appreciated!

• Vietnam Veterans’ Appreciation Dinner

• World Language International Festival

• Educator’s Choice Awards

Staffulty of the Month

CARLY ORIS CRHS Health and Physical Education Teacher

Q: What is your current position at Central Regional?

A: I am currently a health and physical education teacher at the high school.

Q: Can you describe your role?

A: My role as a physical education teacher is to encourage students to participate in different activities that improve their fitness, strength, endurance and overall health. Additionally, we teach students the rules and skills in various sports and games, helping them improve their coordination, teamwork and sportsmanship. I strive to educate students about the importance of regular exercise, proper nutrition and healthy habits to promote lifelong wellness.

Q: How long have you worked in the district, and have you worked in other roles?

A: I have worked in the district for three years, always as a health and physical education teacher.

Q: Do you coach any sports or advise any clubs or groups?

A: I currently coach girls’ varsity soccer at the high school as well as girls’ track and field at the middle school. In addition, I am a mentor to a student in the 2gether Mentor Program at the high school.

Q: What is your favorite thing about working at Central Regional?

A: My favorite part about working at Central Regional is being able to make a positive impact on the students and help them grow, discover their strengths and build confidence. There’s something really special about being part of someone’s learning journey and knowing that what you do can inspire them beyond the classroom. Also, the variety and energy in teaching keeps things exciting—no

JOSEPH FIRETTO CRMS Assistant Principal

Q: What is your current position at Central Regional?

A: I am the Middle School principal.

Q: Can you describe your role?

A: I am the educational and culture leader while being responsible for the day-to-day operations of the school and collaborating with staff, parents and community members to foster a positive learning environment that prepares students for high school and beyond.

Q: How long have you worked in the district, and have you worked in other roles?

A: I have worked in the district for 17 Years

as a parent, principal, assistant principal and again as a principal.

Q: Do you coach any sports or advise any clubs or groups?

A: No, however, I run ongoing meetings with my admin team, counselors and the Child Study Team to identify those students in need and ways to enhance their overall achievement. In addition, the scheduling of Principal-Parent-Partnership meetings throughout the year serves as another layer of communication that complements and fosters a positive culture at CRMS.

Q: What is your favorite thing about working at Central Regional?

A: CRMS is a closely knit learning community. I really enjoy interacting with students during

two days are ever the same!

Q: What is the most challenging part of your position?

A: The most challenging part about being a health and physical education teacher is getting every student—especially those who may be less interested or less confident in physical activities—to participate enthusiastically. Motivating kids with different skill levels, interests and attitudes toward fitness requires creativity and patience.

Q: Can you share something fun about yourself?

A: A fun fact about myself is that after college and before becoming a teacher, I was an au pair in Australia for two years. In that time, I was able to travel to many different countries, including New Zealand, where I did one of the highest bungee jumps in the world.

each of the lunch periods, strolling the halls, visiting teachers and students in classrooms and setting time aside to recognize and appreciate both students and staff at CRMS.

Q: What is the most challenging part of your position?

A: Trying to balance and prioritize the requirements of the New Jersey Department of Education regarding assessments and the needs of students regarding social-emotional and mental health.

Q: Can you share something fun about yourself?

A: I really enjoy making calzones and stromboli with students every year as part of a Language Arts lesson.

KEVIN BUSCIO

CRMS Assistant Principal

Q: What is your current position at Central Regional?

A: I am an assistant principal at the middle school.

Q: Can you describe your role?

A: My day-to-day responsibilities include maintaining discipline, curriculum, supervising and evaluating staff, contacting parents when necessary, climate and culture and maintaining a safe building and environment.

Q: How long have you worked in the district, and have you worked in other roles?

A: I have been at Central Regional for 31 years including 16 years as a classroom teacher, 8 years as a curriculum and instruction supervisor, and 8 years as a vice principal.

Q: Do you coach any sports or advise any clubs or groups?

A: I do not coach or advise any clubs.

Q: What is your favorite thing about working at Central Regional?

A: My favorite thing about working at Central Regional is that I get to meet and work with new students every year. I also enjoy the friendships I have established with all of the professionals here at Central.

MARIA FOUKARAKIS CRHS Education/Health Teacher

Q: What is your current position at Central Regional?

A: I am currently a physical education/ health teacher and I have seniors in high school.

Q: Can you describe your role?

A: My role is to prepare students for life after graduation. I provide the students with guidance, a positive learning environment and meaningful relationships throughout their high school experience.

Q: How long have you worked in the district, and have you worked in other roles?

A: I have been in the district for 10 years and absolutely love my job! Before coming to the high school, I was at Hugh J. Boyd Elementary School for a year as a paraprofessional.

Q: Do you coach any sports or advise any clubs or groups?

A: I currently do not coach but I did for about 15 years. I am a co-advisor for the Gender/Sexuality Alliance Club and the People of Color Club. I also advise the Yoga Club.

Q: What is your favorite thing about working at Central Regional?

A: My favorite thing about working at Central Regional is watching the students

BRIANNE ALLENDER CRHS Guidance Counselor

Q: What is your current position at Central Regional?

A: I am a guidance counselor at the High School

Q: Can you describe your role?

A: As a guidance counselor, my role is to support students in all aspects of their high school journey—academically, socially and emotionally. I work closely with students to help them set and achieve goals, whether that means succeeding in the classroom, navigating personal challenges or planning for life after graduation. I’m here to be a safe, trusted adult they can turn to, someone who listens, advocates and helps them grow in all aspects of their lives.

Q: How long have you worked in the district,

and have you worked in other roles?

A: I have been working in the district now for four years, but as a Central graduate, this place has always been home to me.

Q: Do you coach any sports or advise any clubs or groups?

A: I coach girls’ volleyball and basketball which I absolutely love being a part of. I also proudly run our Girls State Program here at Central.

Q: What is your favorite thing about working at Central Regional?

A: What I love most about being here is the people. It genuinely feels like one big family. From the staff to the students, I’m so grateful to be part of such a supportive and inspiring community. The impact we create together is something I’m very proud of. Being surrounded by such passionate, caring individuals motivates me to learn and be better every single day.

Q: What is the most challenging part of your position?

A: On occasion you can come across a parent that does not understand the partnership that is necessary between the school and family for both parties to have success.

Q: Can you share something fun about yourself?

A: I have been riding all types of bicycles for over 40 years and that is my way to exercise, compete and relieve stress. I also enjoy gardening and landscaping, and have over 150 varieties of plants, flowers, shrubs and trees on my property.

grow as individuals and go on to the next chapter of their lives.

Q: What is the most challenging part of your position?

A: I would say the hardest challenge about my job would be parting ways with the seniors. I am going to miss the Class of 2025! Best of luck in all you do!

Q: Can you share something fun about yourself?

A: A fun fact about myself is that I love an adrenaline rush. I have been skydiving seven times, bungee jumping, cliff diving, white water rafting and zip lining. I am also a huge Miami Dolphins fan!

Q: What is the most challenging part of your position?

A: One of the most challenging aspects of my role is knowing that I can’t always fix everything for my students. There are times when I see them struggling, whether it’s academically, socially or personally, and even though I offer support, guidance and resources, some situations are out of my control. It can be emotionally tough because I care deeply and want the best for every student. But I’ve learned that being present, consistent and showing up with empathy can still make a big difference, even if I can’t always provide a perfect solution.

Q: Can you share something fun about yourself?

A: I love playing sports and staying active! My favorite foods are pizza and pasta.

WENDY VACANTE

CRMS English Language Arts/General Ed Teacher

Q: What is your current position at Central Regional?

A: I am a 7th Grade General Ed and English Language Arts teacher.

Q: Can you describe your role?

A: My role is to promote a stronger love for reading into the mindsets of my students, as well as create a little excitement and enthusiasm (that I have) for the English language. Also, to instill the qualities and life skills necessary to be successful individuals in all their choices and actions.

Q: How long have you worked in the district, and have you worked in other

roles?

A: I have been teaching for 21 years, all at CRMS. I have also taught 8th grade ELA (General Ed). I've taught all track levels for both 7th and 8th grade General Ed.

Q: Do you coach any sports or advise any clubs or groups?

A: I'm the advisor of the National Junior Honor Society for the middle school and the vice president of our local Union, the Central Regional Education Association.

Q: What is your favorite thing about working at Central Regional?

A: Knowing that each day I have another shot at making a difference in the lives of my students with the hope that they are really listening to me and learning

GABRIELLE CARNEY CRMS Assistant Principal

Q: What is your current position at Central Regional?

A: I am currently an assistant principal at the Middle School. I assumed this position in February 2020, six weeks before the school year came to an abrupt end.

Q: Can you describe your role?

A: In my role, I mainly handle the discipline for the seventh grade class and act as supervisor for the Social Studies, Art and Music Departments. I get the most joy from participating in the positive aspects of my day which include running the Climate and Culture Committee, organizing fun school wide events, posting on the district Instagram page, and doing positive rewards, awards and incentives for our Middle School staff and students.

Q: How long have you worked in the district,

and have you worked in other roles?

A: I have worked for Central Regional since the Fall of 2003. I spent six years working as an eighth grade social studies teacher and then 11 years as the AP U.S. history teacher in the High School. In addition, I spent a few years early on in my career as an assistant girls’ varsity soccer coach. I am also a proud Central graduate, class of 1996.

Q: Do you coach any sports or advise any clubs or groups?

A: Not anymore but in the early part of my career, I was an assistant coach for girls’ varsity Soccer team. Recently, I served as an advisor for the CRMS Roving Reporters.

Q: What is your favorite thing about working at Central Regional?

A: My favorite thing about working for Central is the feeling of family that we have here. Many of us are Central alumni, and many of our students' parents are former students of mine, as are most of the Berkeley cops that work here! It definitely feels like home to be

ELIZABETH MOORE CRHS Music Teacher

Q: What is your current position at Central Regional?

A: I am a music teacher at the high school.

Q: Can you describe your role?

A: I teach AP/Honors Music Theory, Piano 1 and 2, and Chorus.

Q: How long have you worked in the

district, and have you worked in other roles?

A: I have worked at Central for 25 years. Four of those were in the middle school teaching general music.

Q: Do you coach any sports or advise any clubs or groups?

A: I conduct the extracurricular choirs and I am involved in the theater program at Central.

Q: What is your favorite thing about

something, not just about ELA but life skills and lessons.

Q: What is the most challenging part of your position?

A: I would have to say balancing my time between home (as a wife and mom to my two wonderful sons) and school (wearing my many professional hats) while devoting my time to all of the roles I play in life to my utmost ability and always trying to give 100 percent in all that I do.

Q: Can you share something fun about yourself?

A: I am halfway to my blackbelt in karate, and I take kickboxing/self-defense classes. Also, I love watching ice hockey, especially in person. Go Devils!

here on a daily basis. The kids are also a lot of fun and they keep us young and on our toes.

Q: What is the most challenging part about your position?

A: The most challenging part of my job is having to accept that I can't possibly help every kid or change every kid, but it's certainly not for a lack of trying. It is so rewarding when we get to see positive growth and change in a student who started off in a bad place and is now thriving. Seeing kids succeed is what it is all about and it’s why I do this job in the first place.

Q: Can you share something fun about yourself?

A: I am a huge soccer fan and Messi fan. I watch the Inter Miami games regularly and have seen him play twice in person over the last three years. I have a husband, two amazing kids (age 13 and 17) and the cutest 10-month-old Australian shepherd puppy named Rocky. Life is good.

working at Central Regional?

A: I love the students, community and the supportive nature of our administration.

Q: What is the most challenging part of your position?

A: It's three different subjects. It's sometimes challenging to balance.

Q: Can you share something fun about yourself?

A: I like to read and go on road trips. I also love languages and history.

Second Annual Student Leadership Beach Bash a Resounding Success

The Second Annual Student Leadership Beach Bash, hosted by Central Regional School District in collaboration with the New Jersey Association for Middle Level Education (NJAMLE) and Dr. Frank Rudnesky of Fired Up Leadership, proved to be an outstanding success.

Held on June 3 at Central Regional High School in Bayville, the event brought together more than 400 middle schoollevel students from across the region for a dynamic day of leadership development. A highlight of this year's program was the meaningful mentorship provided by Central Regional High School students, who served as peer leaders and guides for the younger participants.

The four-hour event delivered inspiring leadership experiences, featuring engaging speakers, interactive team-building activities, collaboration with students from other schools, motivational content and DJ entertainment that kept students engaged throughout the day.

Central Regional School District's commitment to the Jostens Renaissance Framework was evident throughout the event, with clear demonstrations of the framework's six R's: Respect, Responsibility, Recognition, Relationships, Resilience and Results. The Beach Bash served as an example of how these core principles can be integrated into meaningful educational experiences that foster student leadership and character development.

The peer mentorship component added a unique dimension to the experience, as middle school student leaders from various schools shared their insights and experiences with new middle-level participants. This student-to-student connection created authentic learning opportunities and demonstrated leadership in action.

Internationally known speaker Gian Paul Gonzalez delivered his powerful "All In - It's Not a Slogan, It's a Lifestyle" message that resonated strongly with both middle and high school participants. His presentation left students energized and equipped with practical leadership tools they can implement in their schools and communities.

The event demonstrated the strong appetite for quality leadership programming among New Jersey's young people. The combination of educational content, peer mentorship, entertainment, and collaborative learning created an environment that allowed students to grow and connect across grade levels.

The successful collaboration between Central Regional School District, NJAMLE and Dr. Rudnesky's Fired Up Leadership, enhanced by the meaningful participation of high school student mentors, created a memorable experience that will have a lasting impact on all participants. This year's Beach Bash reinforces the power of peer leadership and sets a high standard for future leadership development initiatives in New Jersey's educational community.

The Central Regional School District Board of Education recognized more than 50 students for outstanding academic and athletic achievements and demonstration of outstanding character at its May meeting. The Board recognized the following students:

MIDDLE SCHOOL CHARACTER AWARDS

• Kacper Lukasiewicz 7th Grade, Marking Period 3

• Destiny Rubin 8th Grade, Marking Period 3

• Angelina Gonzalez 7th Grade, Marking Period 4

• Alexis Matuszewski 8th Grade, Marking Period 4

HIGH SCHOOL GOLDEN EAGLE AWARDS

• Angelina Allarde May

• Angelina Forney May

• Monica Avalishvili June

• Brayden Cimorelli June

ATHLETIC AWARDS

• Emma Christensen Girls’ Basketball

• Jaycen Santucci Boys’ Basketball

• Jayson King Boys’ Basketball

• Marquel McGrath Boys’ Basketball

• Aidan Graham Boys’ Basketball

• Caden King Boys’ Basketball

• Cijier Yates Boys’ Basketball

• Derek Roth Boys’ Basketball

• Gavin Lisewski Boys’ Basketball

• Jaxen Carter Boys’ Basketball

• Luke Denning Boys’ Basketball

• Patryk Cavanaugh Boys’ Basketball

• Richard Schmidt Boys’ Basketball

• Royalty Riley Boys’ Basketball

• Tyler Woermer Boys’ Basketball

• Elijah Reeder Boys’ Basketball

• Jade Hahn Girls’ Wrestling

• Liliana Alicea Girls’ Wrestling)

• JayAnna Hahn Girls’ Wrestling

• Sophia A. Van Splinter Girls’ Wrestling

• Edwin Figueroa Boys’ Wrestling

• Joseph Dunne Boys’ Wrestling

• Rachael Crick Girls’ Bowling

• Morgan Hawks Girls’ Bowling

• Ella Westhoven Girls’ Swimming

• Aidan Wenzel Boys’ Swimming

• Chase Corbett Boys’ Swimming

• Drew Westhoven Boys’ Swimming

• Kaden Stout Boys’ Swimming

• Jacob Cavanaugh Hobey Baker High School Character Award

• Joshua Rich Hovey Baker High School Character Award

MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENTS OF THE MONTH

• Max Nolan 7th Grade, March

• Gabrielle Zafra 7th Grade, March

• Kadence Glasser 8th Grade, March

• Sebastian Epstein 8th Grade, March

• Vincent Vannella 7th Grade, April

• Sadie Cavanaugh 7th Grade, April

• Sebastian Ettari 8th Grade, April)

• Nabil Alturjman 8th Grade, April

• Salvatore Rios 7th Grade, May

• Grace Bedell 7th Grade, May

• Tyler Decker 8th Grade, May

• Noa Valerio 8th Grade, May

• Andria Capasso 7th Grade, June

• Caleb Allarde 7th Grade, June

• June Haggan 8th Grade, June

• Henry Kebeck 8th Grade, June

Nine Golden Eagle Legends Headed to the Athletic Hall of Fame

The Central Regional School District recently announced the 2025 class of the Athletic Hall of Fame. The class includes nine inductees who made countless memories for Central sports fans.

This year's honorees:

Mike Bickford (2017): A three-sport standout at Central, Bickford left his biggest legacy on the football field, leading the team to two B South titles and setting school records with 5,417 career rushing yards and 65 touchdowns. He also holds the school record for most rushing yards (433) and touchdowns (7) in a game. He was a three-time AllDivision player and earned All-State and All-Shore honors. On the wrestling mat, Bickford was a four-year letter winner who finished his career with over 60 wins and was a district finalist. On the baseball field, Mike was a threeyear starter.

Devyn Flesch (2008): The first girls’ lacrosse inductee, Flesch also excelled in field hockey. She was a key member of the undefeated B South field hockey champions teams in 2006 and 2007, and the B South public champs in girls’ lacrosse in 2007. She was captain of the field hockey team during her senior year. She was voted team defensive MVP, as well as All-Division during the 2006 and 2007 seasons. In lacrosse as a junior, she was voted first team All-County, second team All-Shore, and to the All-Division team. She set a then single-season record with 72 goals. During her senior season, she was voted captain and set a new single-season record with 77 goals, and the school record 152 career goals. She was again voted All-Shore, All-County, and All-Division.

Rachel Iozzia (2013): A two-sport athlete who excelled in basketball and volleyball at Central, Iozzia led the girls' basketball team to back-to-back divisional titles in 2011 and 2012. She finished her basketball career with 1,103 points. She was a three-time MVP of the basketball team and volleyball team during her time at Central Regional. Rachel went on to play basketball at St. Francis University for four years and finished her career as a graduate student at San Francisco State University.

Steve Kachmar (1981): A member of arguably the greatest Central baseball team. The 1980 team won the Shore Conference, Ocean County Tournament Championship, and the Shore Conference Tournament Championship. Kachmar was voted 1st team All-Shore

1980, 2nd team All Shore 1981 and 1st team All-County 1980 and 1981.

In his Junior Year, he batted .411, drove in 32 runs, and had 39 Hits (tied then school record), 5 HR (lead the shore), he was 7-5 on the mound and was the winning pitcher in the SCT finals and OCT finals against Lakewood, which halted their 17-game winning streak. He was also a member of All-State teams in 1980 and 1981. Steve also excelled on the football field and basketball court during his high school career.

Vinny Kelly: Kelly served as head coach of the girls’ basketball team for 18 years. His teams won divisional titles in 1984 and 1991. He led the Golden Eagles to 15 wins or more eight times during his tenure.

Shawn Kessler (2009): Kessler was a three-year starter for the baseball team, leading them to back-to-back divisional titles in 2008 and 2009. He collected 79 hits, drove in 54 runs and scored 48 on his way to a .391 lifetime average. Kessler was a two-time All-Division and All-Ocean County selection, as well as being voted Team MVP, All-State Group 3, All-Shore, and named the B South Division Hitter of the Year in his senior season. He went on to play four years at Stockton University where he was a three-year starter.

Corrine Mahoney (2016): Mahoney is the first female swimmer to be inducted into the Hall of Fame, joining her brother Evan Mahoney. She was a four-year varsity athlete on the swim team, broke six individual school records and was a member of all three record-setting relay teams. She was a four-time Ocean County Champion and part of an Ocean County record-breaking relay team. She was named the county’s swimmer of the meet and The

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Star-Ledger Ocean County Swimmer of the Year during her junior and senior years. She was a four-time Meet of Champions qualifier in two individual events.

Amanda Smith (2000): Smith was dominant in softball and field hockey. She received the Asbury Park Press Jim Sullivan Award as the Outstanding Female Athlete in the Shore Conference in 2000. As a senior, she batted .463 and had 44 hits to lead the county and was named the Ocean County Observer Softball Player of the Year, Gannett NJ First Team All-State, All Shore (Shortstop), All-County, and was Ocean County Tournament MVP. As the field hockey goalie, she recorded 15 shutouts in 17 games as a senior. She was voted to the Asbury Park Press “Best Field Hockey Players of the 1990s” list.

Nick Tenpenny (2007): Tenpenny was a major contributor to wrestling's 2004 and 2006 B-South Division

championship teams and 2005 and 2006 South Jersey Group 3 State Sectional Championship. He is a four-time letter winner in wrestling and owns a career record of 115 and 28. During his senior year, when he finished third in the state, Tenpenny had a record of 42 and 3. He was a twotime District 24 Champion (2006 and 2007). He holds the single-season record for Most Wins in a Season (42) and most points scored in a season (190).

The district will host a Hall of Fame Induction Banquet at 6 p.m. on September 11 at B2 Bistro in Bayville. The cost to attend is $50. For more information on the banquet, please contact the Athletic Office at 732-269-1100 ext. 3434 or email Athletic Director John Scran at jscran@centralreg. k12.nj.us. Members of the 2025 Hall of Fame class will be recognized at halftime of the football game against Southern Regional on September 12.

Central Regional Competes in Special Olympics Summer Games

The Central Regional Special Olympics track and field team competed in the Special Olympics New Jersey 2025 Summer Games at The College of New Jersey June 6-8 earning their share of medals and experiencing a bit of college life in the process.

Overall, Central Regional earned one gold medal, six silver medals, and five bronze medals. They also had three fourth place finishers, two fifth place finishers, and a sixth place finisher.

Gold

• Rose Matsil Softball Toss

Silver

• Tripp Corrigan Softball Toss

• Molly Ridgeway 200M Dash + 100M Dash

• Tripp Corrigan 100M Dash

• James Nagy 100M Dash

• Kellen Hess 200M Dash

Bronze

• Molly Ridgeway, James Nagy, Rose Matsil &

Shane Erickson 4x100M Relay

• Shane Erickson Long Jump

Fourth

• Rose Matsil 100M Dash

• Kellen Hess 100M Dash

• Shane Erickson 200M Dash

Fifth

• Victor Caruso 100M Dash

• James Nagy 200M Dash

Sixth

Victor Caruso 200M Dash

The athletes also had the opportunity to stay in the dorms during the threeday event, participate in the Opening Ceremonies, take advantage of all of the attractions of the Olympic Village and socialize and celebrate with athletes from throughout the state. Great job to all the athletes!

Amaechina Wins Long Jump at NJSIAA Meet of Champions

Senior Nnaemeka Amaechina won the NJSIAA Meet of Champions long jump competition on June 4, making him just the third individual state champion in Central track and field history. Amaechina’s jump of 24 feet, 1 inch is an Ocean County record and the top jump in the state this year. He qualified for New Balance Nationals in Philadelphia with his record-breaking jump. Amaechina competed alongside Royalty Riley, who finished 13th overall in the state. Amaechina joins Carlos Hanze, who won the 3,200 in 1982, and current Central Coach James Plummer, who won the discus competition in 2008.

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