2025 Athletic Hall of Fame

CELEBRATING THOSE WHO STAND OUT AMONG PREP’S OUTSTANDING ATHLETIC TRADITION.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 28

HUDSON HOUSE • JERSEY CITY

With immense pride and joy, we celebrate our own,

ANTHONY NOVELLO

on a well-deserved induction into the St. Peter’s Prep Athletic Hall of Fame

Class of 1993 Soccer

MASTER OF CEREMONIES

Mike Murcia, ’08 Director of Alumni Relations

INVOCATION

Rev. Lito Salazar, S.J. Director of Ignatian Identity

WELCOME

Michael Gomez, Ed.D., ’91 President

INDUCTION

OF THE CLASS OF 2025

Najeee Glass, ’12 Track

Paul Que, ’95 Football

Jeff Butler, ’01 Bowling

The 2005 Football Team

Anthony Novello, ’93, P’26 Soccer

PRIDE & GLORY

THE SAINT PETER’S PREP

ATHLETIC HALL OF FAME

CLASS OF 2025

NAJEE GLASS, ’12 TRACK

One of the most decorated track athletes in Saint Peter’s Prep history, Najee Glass, ’12 distinguished himself early as a national-caliber sprinter, dominating the 400-meter event throughout his high school and collegiate career.

At Grand & Warren, Najee was a four-time First Team All-County selection in the 400 meters and left a mark on New Jersey track history by setting state indoor records in both the 400 and 500 meters that still stand today. A three-time Meet of Champions winner and First Team All-State honoree, he was named a New Balance All-American three times. In 2012, he was crowned Indoor National Champion in the 400 meters, clocking 46.57 seconds, a meet record and the fourth-fastest time ever by a U.S. high school athlete at the time.

Najee’s success extended to the international stage. In 2010, he represented Team USA at the Summer Youth Olympics, finishing sixth in the 400 meters. The following year, he helped lead the U.S. medley relay team to a World Youth best at the IAAF World Youth Championships, running an incredible 31-second 300-meter leg. He also reached the semifinals in the 400 meters at that event. USA Today named him to its All-USA High School Track & Field Team in 2011.

Najee continued his career at the University of Florida, where he helped the Gators to a national title as a member of the 4×400-meter relay team that won the 2013 NCAA Division I Outdoor Championship. In 2015, he earned individual honors by winning the SEC Indoor 400-meter title and also contributed to the winning 4×400-meter relay at the SEC Outdoor Championships. That same year, he ran a personal best of 44.79 in the 400 meters, placing him among the fastest ever at the collegiate level. At the conclusion of his collegiate career, he was awarded with 7 total All American designations, three for the individual 400 and four for the 4x400.

Today, Najee lives in Orlando, Florida, where he works for State Farm as a Deployed Claims Adjuster in the Catastrophe Services division, responding to areas affected by natural disasters. His legacy at Prep remains unmatched on the track, and he joins the Athletic Hall of Fame as one of the school’s all-time greats.

PAUL QUE, ’95 FOOTBALL

Few players in the storied history of Prep Football have combined dominance, determination, and heart the way Paul Que, ’95 did. A two-time All-State running back, Paul was the engine behind one of the greatest teams ever to take the field for the Marauders…and his name remains etched in the record books and memories of those who witnessed his greatness.

A four-year contributor and two-year starter, Paul was a central figure in back-toback 1,000-yard rushing seasons, finishing his Prep career with a remarkable 3,803 rushing yards and 63 touchdowns. He ranks among the top three all-time scorers in Prep Football history. As a junior in 1993, Paul led the team in rushing, scoring, and carries, helping Prep to a 9–1 season, a Hudson County title, and a #5 state ranking, all while sharing the backfield with Prep Hall of Famer Pedro Cirino, ’96 and AllCounty standout Mike Medrano, ’94.

But it was his senior season in 1994 that cemented his legacy. As a co-captain and offensive leader, Paul powered the Marauders to an undefeated season, a county championship, the NJSIAA Parochial Group 4 State Championship, a final #1 state ranking, and a top-5 national ranking. In the title game at Giants Stadium, played against a heavily favored Bergen Catholic team, Paul delivered one of the most iconic performances in Prep history: 167 rushing yards and three touchdowns, including a leaping 1-yard score that capped a 12-play, 64-yard drive. His recovery of a late onside kick sealed the 26–24 victory and Prep’s place in New Jersey history.

Upon his graduation, Paul attended Hofstra University on a full scholarship. As a freshman, he beat out seven upperclassmen to earn the starting running back job, finishing his first season with 920 yards and 9 touchdowns, earning him Hofstra’s Freshman Offensive Player of the Year Award. He went on to start for three seasons under Coach Joe Gardi, finishing as one of the top seven all-time rushers in program history, which he achieved in just three years.

Paul is a North Bergen native and proud brother to three Prep alumni—Vincent, ’93, Jose, ’99, and Adam, ’06. He now resides in Holmdel and is the cofounder of Foresight Health Coaching, a digital wellness company supporting high performers in achieving long-term health and vitality. He is engaged to Kat McCosker and is the proud father of Gia (20), Pauly (17), Koa (5), and Kaia (3 months).

JEFF BUTLER, ’01 BOWLING

As the most accomplished bowler in Saint Peter’s Prep history, Jeffrey Butler, ’01 blazed a trail in a sport that had not yet been represented in the Athletic Hall of Fame…until now! A four-year varsity standout and the undisputed top bowler to ever wear the Maroon and White, Jeff set a standard that has yet to be matched at Prep.

During his senior year, Jeff made history by winning the 2001 NJSIAA Individual State Championship with an astounding 719 series, becoming Prep’s first-ever bowling state champion. That season, he also achieved the rare feat of a perfect game. Over his career, he earned All-Hudson County First Team honors all four years and was selected to the All-State team three times, culminating with a First Team nod as a senior. Jeff also claimed the Hudson County individual title in 1998 and 2001, cementing his dominance at the county and state levels.

Following his record-setting career at Prep, Jeff continued to shine on the lanes in college. He accepted a scholarship to Michigan State University, where he was named the 2002 National Collegiate Rookie of the Year and led the Spartans to a berth in the collegiate finals. He later transferred to Saint Peter’s College, where he competed from 2003 to 2006. His post-collegiate career included a major highlight in 2007, when he captured the U.S. Bowling Congress Open Doubles Championship and helped set a world record.

Raised in Union City and Jersey City, Jeff now resides in Dallas, Texas, with his wife of 11 years, Amanda, and their four children, Amaya, Eva, Elijah, and Isaiah. He serves as Vice President of Supply Chain and Logistics for Aspen Lasers/ Theralight. Among his most cherished memories from Prep are the Emmaus Retreat, community service projects, his Prep Spirit Award, and the unmatched camaraderie of Prep Pride at athletic events across all sports.

In honoring Jeff, Prep not only celebrates the legacy of an elite competitor, but also welcomes a new sport to its Hall of Fame, led by the athlete who defined it.

THE 2005 FOOTBALL TEAM

Dominant? Absolutely. Determined? Unquestionably. Defeated? Never. There is no doubt the 2005 Prep Football team ranks among the greatest in Prep history and the greatest in New Jersey high school football history.

Under the leadership of Head Coach Rich Hansen, P’03, ’09, the team compiled a perfect 12-0 record, capturing the Hudson County Championship and NJSIAA Non-Public Group IV State Championship. Team captains Scott Baran, ’06, Rich Hussey, ’06, and Brandon O’Keefe-Caroprese, ’06, led the Marauders through a dream season that ended with Prep ranked #1 in New Jersey, #14 nationally, #1 in the Tri-State area, and #1 in the USA Today Northeast Region.

The Marauders’ defense was an unstoppable force all season long, recording six shutouts in the nine-game regular season and surrendering only 31 points throughout the entire season. In the playoffs, Prep defeated state-ranked opponents Notre Dame and Camden Catholic, setting the stage for a championship game against Don Bosco Prep that would leave an indelible mark in Prep Football history.

In a thrilling contest at Giants Stadium, the Marauders emerged victorious with a 22-15 win over the then-#1 team in New Jersey and the USA. It was only fitting, in a season where Prep’s defense told the story, that a defensive play cemented the title. Senior Andrew Booth, ’06 returned an interception 65 yards for a touchdown with just three minutes left in the game, breaking a 15-15 tie.

The 2005 Football Team’s legacy is not only defined by their undefeated record and championships but also by the unity, determination, and excellence displayed throughout the season. These Marauders proudly carried the torch passed to them by previous Hall of Fame football teams (1958, 1989, and 1994). Tonight the 2005 team takes their place in this esteemed company.

ANTHONY NOVELLO, ’93, P’26 SOCCER

A dominant force in net with one of the most impressive resumes in the history of Prep Soccer, Anthony Novello, ’93, P’26 left behind a legacy of excellence and leadership that continues to inspire future Marauders—including his own son, Prep Varsity Soccer goalkeeper Anthony R. Novello, ’26! A three-year varsity starter and two-time team MVP, Anthony was a cornerstone of the program during a golden era of success.

As goalkeeper, Anthony recorded 25 career shutouts (a school record at the time) and led the Marauders to the 1992 Hudson County Championship, the program’s first since 1978. That title sparked a three-year run of county dominance that helped redefine Prep Soccer’s standard of excellence. Anthony’s on-field accolades are among the most decorated in team history: three-time All-City, three-time AllCounty, two-time All-State, Jersey City Goalkeeper of the Year, and HCIAA Player of the Year.

Beyond statistics, Anthony’s Prep career was defined by passion and pride, from his first varsity start as a sophomore to key victories over rivals like Hudson Catholic, Bayonne, and Emerson. He was also a multi-sport athlete, competing on the basketball court during his first three years at Prep.

Anthony continued his soccer journey at Fairfield University, where he started for three seasons and earned Most Valuable Player honors at the 1993 Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC) Men’s Soccer Championship. Despite Fairfield falling to Loyola Maryland in a 1–0 overtime final, Anthony’s standout play between the posts earned him tournament MVP recognition, a rare honor for a goalkeeper on a runner-up team.

A proud Bayonne native, Anthony resides in his hometown with his wife, Nadine, celebrating 21 years of marriage this July, and their son, Anthony. He serves as Director of C&D Sales for Interstate Waste Services and was the CEO of Evergreen Recycling Solutions, which was acquired by Interstate in 2023.

From Prep Soccer camps to championship moments, Anthony’s journey represents not only individual excellence, but also the Pride and Glory of Prep Athletics.

AMN, CONGRATULATIONS on your induction to the SPP Hall of Fame. You will be a fixture to motivate and inspire the younger generations to come. A job well done!

All our love, Nadine and ARN

CONGRATULATIONS, ANTHONY!

ON YOUR INDUCTION TO THE PREP ATHLETIC HALL OF FAME

During your Prep career, we proudly watched as you led your team to win the 1992 Hudson County championship, while personally achieving many school, county, and state honors. Your love and sacrifice for the game carried over to a successful college career at Fairfield University, earning the 1993 MAAC Championship MVP award. Your hard work and dedication have been exemplary both on and off the field. You are an extraordinary blessing to our family, an amazing friend, and loyal Prep alum, continuously dedicating time and service to the school you hold dear to your heart.

This award embodies the essence of the husband, son, father, friend, cousin, brother, and uncle you gift to all of us everyday. We love you, Salute!

Mom, Dad, Nadine, Christina, Anthony Rene, Daniela and Joanna

“Our mission is to make cancer prevention programs available to the community we serve. Our focus is to grant access to the test and/or screening necessary to those individuals who may otherwise be denied. Our Hope is to enrich the life of every indivi dual in need, one at a time.”

The Madeline Fiadini LoRe Foundation for Cancer Prevention Congratulates one of our own:

Anthony Novello, ’93, P’26 Soccer

Saint Peter’s Prep Athletic Hall of Fame 2025 Honoree

Continued Success in all you do!

CONGRATULATIONS, BRANDON! ON YOUR INDUCTION TO THE PREP ATHLETIC HALL OF FAME

We couldn’t be prouder of you and all that you’ve accomplished – not just as an athlete, but as a person of character, dedication and heart. It was an amazing experience to watch you lead Prep as Captain and Inside Linebacker during the incredible12-0 2005 season that ended in such dramatic fashion with your victory over Don Bosco Prep 22-15. We were so proud to watch you win! Your hard work, discipline and love for football have now translated into you being a loving father, husband, son, brother, and uncle. You are a blessing to our family, and we are so happy for you. We love you, and congratulations!

Love, Your Family.This award embodies the essence of the husband, son, father, friend, cousin, brother, and uncle you gift to all of us everyday. We love you, Salute!

Congratulations to the HOF Class of 2025 Inductees!

-Raphael Ortiz '10 Congratulations to the HOF Class of 2025 Inductees!

-Raphael Ortiz '10

President Hubert Benitez, D.D.S., Ph.D., and the entire Saint Peter’s community congratulate this year’s Saint Peter’s Prep inductees.

Anthony Novello

Paul Que

Jeff Butler, SPU ’05

Najee Glass

The 2005 Football Team

GO PREP!

Paul Schaetzle, ’71

PAST INDUCTEES

CLASS OF 2005

Eric Atanda, ’79 Soccer • Jim Barry, ’61 Basketball • Gerry Bellotti Football Coach • George Blaney, ’57 Basketball • Jim Brady, ’54 Baseball • John Clune, ’50 Basketball • Bill Cochrane Football Coach • Welington Davis, ’61 Track • Rich Gronda, ’59 Football • Jerry Halligan Basketball Coach • Jim Hannan, ’56 Baseball • Tim Hawkes, ’65 Football • Jackie Hyatt, ’49 Football • Roy Leenig Basketball Coach • Rev. Earle Markey, S.J., ’49 Basketball • Jerome Pedersen, ’92 Supporter • Lou Rettino, ’59 Football • Joe Urbanovich, ’65 Baseball/Coach • George Waddleton, ’53 Basketball

CLASS OF 2007

John Amabile, ’57 Football • Phil Martorelli, ’59 Football & Baseball • Hank Morano, ’53 Basketball • Frank Piscal, ’57 Football • Bob Schwarze, ’54 Football • Joe Zucconi Football Coach • The 1958 Baseball Team • The 1994 Football Team

CLASS OF 2008

Carmine Campisi, ’50 Football • John Crotty, ’56 Basketball • Hugh Doherty, ’09 Football, Basketball, Baseball Coach • Ed Grant, ’43 Supporter • Ken Harbace, ’53 Football • Dave Ilaria, ’98 Wrestling • Joe Kealy, ’88 Tennis • George Murtaugh, ’22 Football • Tommy Myers Football Coach • Frank Nicoletti, ’62 Basketball • Tom Schember, ’79 Soccer • Rich Skinner, ’57 Football • Johnny Slane, ’22 Football, Basketball, Baseball • Jack Szeigis, ’58 Baseball • Elnardo Webster, ’87 Football • Jack Welter, ’43 Football & Baseball • Wayne Zdanowicz, ’60 Football • The 1958 Football Team

CLASS OF 2010

Mike Burgess Track & Field Coach • Jack Cassedy, ’48 Track • Jim Jim Deveney, ’53 Baseball & Basketball • Doug Gronda, ’86 Wrestling & Football • Mike Hurley, ’56 Football • John Irvine, ’83 Soccer Player & Coach • Tony Mendolla, ’62 Football • Jerry Vayda, ’52 Basketball & Baseball • The 1951-52 Basketball Team • The 1952-53 Basketball Team

CLASS OF 2013

John “Hip” Evers, ’26 Football & Baseball • Don Guide Volleyball Coach • Mike Pedone, ’56 Basketball • Thomas O’Keefe, ’45 Basketball • Gavin Cummings, ’84 Basketball • John “Rocky” Hanlon, ’53 Football • Don Melega, ’58 Baseball • Jack Dow, ’59 Football • Frank Koch, ’61 Track & Field

CLASS OF 2016

Edmund Caulfield, ’00 Swimming • Pedro Cirino, ’96 Football • Matt Foster-Moore, ’00 Soccer • Jack Gordon, ’92 Basketball • Bill O’Donnell, ’95 Football • Barry Tyne, ’59 Baseball & Football • Bob Zakhar, ’62 Football • The 1989 Football Team

CLASS OF 2019

Ed Brown, ’49 Football • Drew Buzzio, ’03 Soccer • Ed Castagna, ’47 Football • Ryan Enrico, ’98 Hockey • Mike Farley, ’01 Lacrosse • Dan Gronda, ’90 Football/Wrestling • John Massaro, ’59 Baseball/Basketball • Frank McElroy, ’66 Swimming • Jack Russell, ’48, P’81,’83,’85, GP’19 Baseball • Edmund Wilhelm, ’53 Football • Craig Zaleck, ’89 Swimming/ Baseball • The 1961-62 Basketball Team

SPECIAL THANKS

We are grateful to our sponsors, whose generous contributions support the Hall of Fame Scholarship Fund.

Hall of Fame Circle

Anthony Novello, ‘93, P’27

Maroon & White Club

Brandon O’Keefe-Caroprese, ‘06

Gifts to the Hall of Fame Scholarship

Bill Musto, ‘95

Prep’s Advancement Office, along with other members of the Saint Peter’s Prep staff, have played an essential role in ensuring the success of tonight’s event. In particular, we thank the following.

For Their Leadership Support:

Michael Gomez, Ed.D. , ’91 President

Sarah Lacz

Vice President of Advancement

Mike Murcia, ’08 Director of Alumni Relations

For Their Ongoing Logistical Support:

Jim Horan, ’70 • Kate Lillis-Magnus • Rebecca Rausch

Drew Katsock • Kelly McGinniss • Liz Walsh

Journal & Promotional Materials:

Mike Jiran, ’03

Matthew Holowienka, ’11

The Athletic Hall of Fame was established in 2005 by the Saint Peter’s Prep Alumni Association, which sponsors this evening’s induction ceremony and dinner. For their leadership and continued support, we thank the members of the Alumni Board:

Al Rinaldi, ’98 President

Mark Goldsack, ’00 Vice President

Joe Amoroso, ‘94

Joe Battista, ‘02

Kevin Brodbeck, ‘89

Brendan Bryant, ‘08

Mike Cardino, ‘92

Lou Castelli, ‘66, P’01

Jack Caulfield, ‘71, P’00, ‘03

Jim Coe, ‘04

Bob Colacurcio, ‘73

Len DePinto, ‘76, P’05, ‘08

Sam De Luca, ‘86, P’26

Al Fazio, ‘77

John Feeney, ‘80

Amlan Gangopadhyay, ‘07

Joe Giglio, ‘87, P’27

Steve Hudik, ‘85

Daryl Corwin, ’99 Secretary

Victor Lopez, ‘18

Mike Murcia, ‘08

Manish Patel, ‘04

Frank Romano, Jr., ‘06

Paul Schaetzle, ‘71

Will Springer, ‘15

George Taite, ‘73, P’11

CONGRATULATIONS,

ANTHONY NOVELLO, ’93 on being inducted to the Prep Hall of Fame. The honor is well-deserved. You represent the very best of Prep Soccer and contiue to uphold its values to this day.

All the best from your friends at Grand & Warren FC

CONGRATULATIONS

to Anthony Novello and the 2025 Prep Athletic Hall of Fame Honorees.

AMDG Caryn and Michael Parlavecchio (Class of 1989) and Family

Xavier celebrates the inductees to the 2025 Saint Peter’s Prep Athletic Hall of Fame: Anthony Novello, Paul Que, Jeff Butler, Najee Glass, and the 2005 Football Team

Jack Raslowsky President