Honoring high school students who inspire greatness

Classroom 

Ever since I’ve been young I’ve been the top of all my classrooms. I find the classrooms easier than most other people. People always ask me for help and seek me as the leader of classrooms. 

On the field I make sure everyone is fired up and making sure that they’re ready to take on any obstacles. Making sure that my teammates keep a level head and just control the controllable. Off the field my peers look at me as a silent role model I don’t lead by words but by example

In my community I don’t speak to much. I lead by example and others become inspired to be like me.

 I make sure everyone is living up to the expectations of the classroom. Making sure I get my work done first and helps others while also conducting a professional environment.

• 14x Honor Roll student
• Expected to have an advanced regents diploma 

 All City Offensive Lineman

Honor Roll most of my life. Being on highly competitive teams and beating top ranked teams

Obstacles I have overcome is the injury , I broke my wrist and came back and went even harder to become faster and stronger, I also had to overcome the adversities of transferring schools and people transferring out and coaches being fired. But I found the right place for me and made then best situation out of it.

When I was young I seen it on TV and fell in love. Ever since then I’ve came on the field and gave it my all. Hoping I can be the person inspiring another kid 

Classroom 

I have always been gifted with my reasoning and intelligence. All my life, academics and learning have come easy to me and on top of my personality I have persevered through adversity to create the best version of myself. I want to take that skill and use it to succeed in my future. To go above and beyond in my classroom I have studied, prepared, reviewed, and compared my work to become my best self and give myself the best chance to succeed in what I want to do. 

I never specifically chose to label myself a leader but people seem to like to follow me so I am happy to take the role. While I am of smaller stature and a lighter voice I have tried my best to lead others on and off the field. I try my best to help and guide whoever requires it and I find myself taking initiative when others won’t. Underclassmen who need help understanding plays, filling the water jugs when no one else will, or even giving a halftime speech to try and hype the team is what has helped me become the leader I am.

I like to think I am also a leader in not only my school community but also my personal one as well. In school I help others when they need me and try to make those around me smarter. I also am an active member of our Campus Ministry in which I lead in alter serving and other volunteer work for the community and school. In my personal community I try to bring others up, include everyone, and be someone that not only do people enjoy to be around but also look for someone who is reliable. 

 In the classroom I have always tried to be leader for those around me. Whether it be helping in different assignments or reviewing others work I try to be a person that people look for when they need help. I encourage my peers and classmates to look to me not for answers but for a guide and help in learning.

• National Honors Society (2026)
• Junior National Honors Society (2022)
• Dean’s List (2023-2027)
• Honors Classes (all years)
• AP Classes (Gov, Lit, Afro, Bio, Calc, World, US)
• 97.42 weighted GPA
• 3/132 class rank
• Full merit-scholarship to my high school (Mount Saint Michael Academy)

N/A

• Volunteer of the Tashane Way Foundation
• Experience in pharmacy (Pharmacists technician)
• Campus Ministry (alter server); food drives, thanksgiving drives, soup kitchens, etc.

 I have gone through different trials and tribulations throughout my life. For example I haven’t grown very tall or gained much wait and while it has been difficult to play these different sports at my size football and the love I have for it has helped me to push forward even when it was hard. When I lost my grandmother and lost my father football and sports is what kept my mind busy as I processed my grief. At first balancing school and sports was one of the most difficult things for me but once I got to practice nothing else mattered anymore. Football has helped me in so many ways other than keeping me entertained and fit.

Since I was a kid I would watch sports with my dad but nothing every stood out as much as football. Every Sunday we would watch the Giants play and I would fall in love with the sport more and more. I first got involved in football in my early years where I tried different sports and found myself enjoying flag football the most. In 7th grade I had finally convinced my mom to let me play tackle football and my love for it grew from there. I knew I wanted to play high school football and that fact helped me to choose the mount in comparison to my other schools.

Courage (Team Leadership or Achievement Despite Adversity) 

I feel like I am a good leader on my team. I always support all of my teammates and push them to be their best during practices and games. As a senior, I especially look out for the underclassmen on our team and offer to help in any way I can whether it’s understanding plays, being an ear for them to talk to or offering them rides home from practice or to our team dinners. 

Some examples of how I demonstrate leadership on the field is by encouraging my teammates everyday with positive reinforcement through my words and actions. As captain of my team, I always strive to be a leader by communicating what is asked of me by my coaches to my teammates. Off the field, I try to be a role model in school and in my community. I am a loyal friend and I am responsible and dependable.

 In my community, I volunteer my time to work at youth clinics and camps. I am also a volunteer coach of a 5th/6th grade team. I know that the little kids look up to me as a high school athlete. I am honored by that and I take it very seriously.

School work doesn’t always come easy to me. I give my best effort in class by participating in class discussions as much as possible. I always complete my homework. I frequently attend extra help sessions after school to reinforce what I learned in class that day and to keep my grades as high as I can. This also helps me foster positive relationships with my teachers which only leads to my success.

I will graduate high school with a regents diploma. 

 Junior year I received all-league for football. In lacrosse, I was a member of my varsity team which was Section One champions and we made it all the way to the state semi-finals. That was a great experience!

 I am proud of the fact that my coaches chose me to be a captain. I take that role seriously and it means a lot to me that my coaches believe in me to be a leader. Another accomplishment is that I passed my regents exams so I can graduate with a regents diploma. Test taking is not my strongest skill but I worked hard and it payed off!

The biggest obstacle I have faced is when I broke my finger during a playoff game and the trainer wouldn’t let me play the rest of the game. I had to have surgery on my finger and sitting out of sports for eight weeks was really hard for me. The mental and physical toughness I gained through my years playing football helped me get through my recovery.

 I have been involved with football for as long as I can remember. I started playing flag football in kindergarten and have never missed a season since. Even during covid, when I was in 5th grade, the youth tackle football organization in my town held a flag football league for us to play in. Although playing while wearing masks wasn’t great, I was so thankful to be playing some version of football.

Courage (Team Leadership or Achievement Despite Adversity) 

I picked courage because I have learned to step up when my team needs me, even when i’m facing pressure and uncertainty. Instead of being intimidated by this years challenge of being a 2 way varsity starter, I embraced the opportunity and put in eminence work in the offseason to try and be a key part of our team. I stepped out of my comfort zone in order to help my team succeed. 

 I demonstrate leadership by leading through my actions and holding my teammates and myself accountable. On the field i communicate with my teammates and give my best effort on every play. Off the field I try to be someone my teammates can depend on whether that mean encouraging a teammate or setting the standard.

 I demonstrate leadership in my community because I believe I example good character when I am in public.

 I demonstrate leadership in the classroom by being engaged, responsible and willing to help my classmates. I try to participate in discussions, stay organized, and hold myself to a high academic standard. 

Honor Level courses, strong grades.

Varsity football player as a Freshman and Sophmore, starting Quarterback and Linebacker, team leadership responsibilities, participation in multiple varsity sports. Multiple youth football awards.

 I am proud of the amount of work I put in the offseason, improving my numbers in the weight room 

One obstacle I have faces has been balancing school, football and other responsibilities while still pushing myself to improve. Football has taught me how to stay disciplined and committed even when I am tried, frustrated, or facing setbacks. It has shown me that challenges mean opportunity to grow.

I was always in the bleachers watching my brothers football games growing up, so as soon as i was old enough I started playing flag. Playing flag made me love football even more so I decided to join my local rec tackle team and the minute I played my first game I realized that football was my sport. I fell in love with the contact and the adrenaline rush when making a big play. I also enjoyed the team aspect because it was my first time playing a team sport as it was my first time.

Community 

Just making sure the ladies in my community go first and any trash I see with a can nearby I pick it up 

I demonstrate leadership by just doing the right thing when no one is watching and just being someone who you can just look at and know they are doing the right thing

I demonstrate leadership by being a football player trying to make my community come together using football.

 I demonstrate leadership in the classroom by making sure I turn my work in on time and complete to my best ability. 

•  Passing NJGPA
• Honor roll

3x sectional champion

Being able to bench 225

 I’ve faced the weight room challenges with trying to grow my body. I’ve also lost my dad and football kept me focus throughout the whole thing.

 I got involved in football as early as I could. I started to play at the age of 7 and haven’t looked back since.

Courage (Team Leadership or Achievement Despite Adversity) 

I feel like I excel most in courage because I’m willing to put myself in situations that are unfamiliar and figure things out as I go. I started football later than a lot of people and still decided to take it seriously and see how far I could go with it. Coming into a new school was another situation where I had to step out of my comfort zone and start over. I don’t always know what’s going to happen, but I’m willing to take the chance and see what I can make out of it. 

 I demonstrate leadership by showing resilience through adversity and not letting my circumstances decide how hard I work. Especially coming into a new school, I had to adjust to a new team, new coaches, and new people, but I still found a way to step up and do what I needed to do. No matter where I’m at or what I’m going through, I try to lead by example and show my teammates that you can keep pushing even when things aren’t going your way. Off the field, I carry that same mindset by being someone my teammates can count on.

I demonstrate leadership by showing resilience through adversity and not letting my circumstances decide how hard I work. Especially coming into a new school, I had to adjust to a new team, new coaches, and new people, but I still found a way to step up and do what I needed to do. No matter where I’m at or what I’m going through, I try to lead by example, showing my teammates how to keep pushing even when everything isn’t going your way. Off the field, I carry that same attitude just by being someone my teammates can rely on.

 I wouldn’t say I’m the most organized student because I do struggle with procrastination sometimes, but I know I’m intelligent and I understand things quickly when I put my mind on them. One way I demonstrate leadership is by helping my teammates when they don’t understand something, especially if it’s something I already know how to do. I try to make sure the people around me understand the work instead of just worrying about myself.

AP/Honors classes and I have made Honor Roll

Super Essex Conference honorable mention for discus, Second Team All SFC – Freedom Red Division

Improving academically after struggling with balancing everything. Helping my grandfather with work on trucks and learning how to work with your hands and tools. Becoming a two-sport athlete.

One of the biggest obstacles I’ve faced has been not always getting the eyes or recognition I wanted, which sometimes made me question myself and my abilities. I also had to deal with a knee injury and surgery, which took me away from something I loved and made me work to get back to 100%. Going through that taught me to be patient with myself and that progress still happens even when it’s slow. Essentially, it taught me that even when nobody sees what I’m putting in, I still have to keep going because I know what I’m capable of.

 I didn’t have the most inspirational or fantastic story when I first started playing football. I started my freshman year of high school because I wanted to lose weight and find something productive to do with my time. I ended up falling in love with the sport and everything that came with it. What was just something to do became such a big part of my life, something I wanted to continue pursuing.

Courage (Team Leadership or Achievement Despite Adversity) 

Being a part of the Wantagh Football Family for the past 12 years has given me a opportunity to develop and exhibit leadership on and off the field. One of the greatest aspects I have shown is commitment and leading by example. This means teaching a younger member plays or breaking them down so they can learn them better. It also means showing up and giving 100% at every practice and every game. Staying positive and being a hype person for every player is something that can make a big difference and I enjoy bringing the team together. The biggest impact I hope to make is on my younger brother. Everything I do is to model and help him achieve his own success. 

Football is the best part of my day. Summer workouts are an outlet for success and I believe leadership is shown through showing up, giving 100% and being dedicated to your team. This is one of the biggest ways I demonstrate leadership at football. I would never think of missing a workout, a practice or team dinners. Even more than showing up, leadership is demonstrated with your character and attitude. I respect every coach and every player — I am always willing to help anyone.

The Wantagh Football Club is where my love for the sport began and one of the best ways to show my gratitude is to help at their practices. I love spending time with the younger players – I will teach them different plays – blocking and tackling – and model what it means to be a teammate.

Academics have always been a priority. I have been recognized as a scholar athlete for maintaining over an 90 average in rigorous courses. Balancing athletics and school is something I have been proud of and the level of independence I have done so.

• Scholar Athlete Award 10, 11, 12
• Honor Roll every quarter of high school
• Advanced Regents Diploma 

3 Sport Scholar Athlete – Varsity Football 10, 11, 12 (County Champions 10 & 11) Long Island Champs 10; JV Football 9; Varsity Wrestling 9, 10, 11, 12 – All-Conference; Varsity Track 9, 10, 11, 12 All-Division

I am proud of how I have excelled in school and sports. I feel good knowing that I have done everything I can to make my parents proud.

My mother passed away ten years ago and my father passed away four years ago. Their passing was sudden and I went to live with my elderly grandparents. I miss them and I am grateful to have football because it is an area where I feel like I am part of a big family. My coach has never shied away from expectations and I think that is no different than what my own father would have given me.

When I was 5 years old, my dad told me he had signed me up to play and it has been a huge part of my life ever since. He was my first football coach and that is so meaningful to me because we have that special connection. He taught me skills but even more important he showed me how to love football. He passed away four years ago and my love for football has only grown since then.

Courage (Team Leadership or Achievement Despite Adversity) 

I feel like I excel most at leadership because I try to lead by example and help the people around me. I always try to work hard, stay positive, and encourage my teammates even when things are difficult. During football, I have pushed myself to get stronger and improve my skills while also helping motivate my teammates to keep working. 

 I demonstrate leadership by working hard and setting a good example for my teammates. On the field, I communicate, encourage my teammates, and stay positive when things aren’t going our way. Off the field, I try to be someone my teammates can count on and someone who is willing to help others.

 I try to be respectful and helpful to the people around me. I believe leadership is not just about being in charge, but about being someone others can depend on. I try to set a good example and help whenever I can. I help out the youth football teams during there games.

 I demonstrate leadership in the classroom by being respectful, responsible, and willing to help others. I try to stay focused and get my work done while encouraging classmates when they need help. I also try to take responsibility for my own work instead of making excuses. 

 3.5 gpa honor roll and participate in school activities

I have worked hard to improve myself as a football player and basketball player, especially by getting stronger, improving my football skills, and staying committed throughout the offseason. I have also worked on being a better teammate and encouraging the people around me.

 One of the accomplishments I am most proud of is how much I have grown as a person and as a football player. I have learned to stay committed even when things get difficult and to keep working toward my goals. I am proud of the progress I have made through hard work and not giving up.

I have faced setbacks and difficult times where things did not always go the way I wanted, when my mom got sick I my teammates were like my family and kept me positive. Football taught me not to give up when something gets difficult and to keep working until I improve. Instead of letting setbacks stop me, I use them as motivation to work harder and become better.

I first got involved in football because I wanted to try a sport that would challenge me and allow me to be part of a team. As I continued playing, I started to really enjoy the competition and the relationships I built with my teammates. Football has become a big part of my life and has taught me a lot about hard work and teamwork.

Courage (Team Leadership or Achievement Despite Adversity) 

I chose this category because football has been a major part of my life and has helped shape the person I am today. I have developed an understanding that being a good football player is about more than what happens on game day; it’s about how you respond when things don’t go your way. After facing setbacks due to multiple season-ending injuries requiring ankle and shoulder surgery, I realized these obstacles have shaped my identity, and I have adapted to these new circumstances. These obstacles redirected my determination to face adversity, gain courage, and push forward. 

I demonstrate leadership in football through action, showing my effort through consistent effort and thorough preparation. Additionally, I try to support my teammates by being someone that they can rely on and encourage them to make decisions to help them succeed. I take pride in my work ethic and carry a full effort mentality when it comes to preparing for opponents on the field as well as with my responsibilities off the field

I demonstrate leadership in my community by taking advantage of all my opportunities and representing the people around me. My involvement in STEM programs and projects, where I collaborate with other students, gives me a chance to share my ideas and opinions and bring together everyone’s strengths. In particular, participating in extracurriculars such as HOSA and NHD, while supporting the students I work alongside gives me the opportunity to demonstrate leadership in my community.

In the classroom, I demonstrate leadership as I often try to contribute and support my classmates when they need assistance. During collaborative STEM projects I try to bring together ideas and take initiative when my group encounters a problem. I strive to use my knowledge from various subjects and experiences within competitions and programs to provide useful perspectives and solutions. 

• Yale Young Global Scholars (YYGS) participant
• National History Day Regional Website Winner – 2x
• Stevens Institute of Technology MLK Hackathon – 1st place
• PCTVS Character Recognition Award
• College Board AP Scholar Award
• Principal Honors Roll

Football – 2x Sectional Champion

I’m very proud of my ability to continue to pursue my goals despite setbacks, both in football and academically. Outside of football, I am extremely proud of my involvement with the development of Thermoflex, a biomedical innovation that has allowed me to combine my interests in technology and healthcare to address a real world problem.

 I have faced many setbacks throughout my journey playing football. One was an ankle injury I developed early in my Sophomore season followed by a labrum injury in my Junior season. Besides the normal therapy, I realized that being around my teammates and support staff has been the best medicine helping me to remain optimistic, and to stay focused. Football has placed me around people who always want the best for me and push me to improve and overcome difficult situations both on and off the field. 

I grew up surrounded by football starting my Peewee career when I was five years old. I quickly fell in love with preparing myself each week for a new opponent, and having the opportunity to compete alongside my teammates. As I grew older football became a game of technique, preparation, and discipline, all values that connected with goals that I set for myself within the classroom. Football not only taught me how to practice and prepare for a goal, but how to turn careful preparation and execution into achievement.

Classroom 

I chose this category because I’ve been on high honor roll every marking period since freshman year, taking honors classes, and passing all my New York State regents exams. A time I went above and beyond in the classroom is when I research extra information about topics that interest me and when I help my classmates understand assignments that they have trouble with so they can succeed. 

 I demonstrate leadership on the football field by doing my best at practice and pushing my teammates to do their best so we can get better as a team. Also, holding myself and teammates accountable in knowing our routes, blocking assignments, etc., while keeping them motivated. The way I demonstrate leadership off the field is helping teammates with work if they have a question about an assignment or are struggling in a class.

The way I demonstrate leadership in my community is going to my church “Dabar Tabernacle” and helping out there.

The way I demonstrate leadership in the classroom is by participating and asking questions during the lesson and providing help to classmates who may not fully understand what we’re learning.

• High honor roll every marking period since freshman year
• Passed all regents’ exams
• Honor classes
• Taking college level classes
• National Jr Honors Society

• Won youth championship 5 times
• Middle school track MVP
• Varsity football captain

•  Maintaining a 90 gpa throughout the school year
• IB student
• Role model as a big brother

I’ve played football since I was 8 years old and pretty much with my childhood friends within my community. Being part of different cities didn’t really hinder that bond of being able to play together. However, once you turn 13 you have to play with your school team. Although, I grew up in New Rochelle and played YTL there for 6 years, my only option once I became a freshman was to begin playing for my previous “rival” team – Mount Vernon. I was discouraged at first and felt I no longer wanted to play the sport. My love for the game of football, dedication to the sport and my academics and those around me helped to keep me grounded and focus on my long-term goals.

 I first got involved in football when I was 8 years old. I’ve also always watched football with my dad.

Community 

A community that I’m a part of myself is the Asian American Association in my town of Westfield, NJ. Every year we host an annual Chinese New Year celebration at one of the middle schools in town. As a nonprofit, we run on donations to host such events as picnics, Zumba classes, performances, dinners, and more. A specific time I remember taking part in a community activity was playing guitar for the elderly at one of the senior homes in town. Elderly residents don’t get to see their family often or get in contact with the outside world, during the Chinese New Year season, a group of kids including myself that were part of the association volunteered to bring a musical performance to them. I played Sailor Song by Gigi Perez whereas other kids played piano, violin and other instruments to show off their talents. That day, I felt proud to entertain citizens of my community and brighten their days with music when their everyday lives usually remained mundane. After the performance, I wrote an article about the experience of our town article called TAPinto. The article is linked here.

As the longest player on the team, my leadership revolves around the seniority I have on the team and the willingness to form a tight knit community. As an amiable person, I aim to always introduce myself to new members, offer a helping hand during drills, and even a friend for my teammates to talk to on and off the field. As new Freshmen came into the program, I would be the ones demonstrating drills as a role model for the new members to look up to, and I even helped out the middle school travel flag team with new plays for their playbook that came from the high school. I taught them how to properly huddle up as a group, announce the plays, position yourself in formation, and execute whether it was a jet sweep or outside fades

  In my town of Westfield NJ, I am a part of the Asian American association that hosts annual events for Chinese New Year. Each year I aim to take part in leadership roles whether it is touring around a Board of Ed member through the Chinese cuisine and performance or being in charge of controlling the games during the day for the little kids. In addition to the leadership revolving around my Chinese heritage, I am a part of the program in my town called Westfield Winners where I help kids on the spectrum learn how to play soccer. This program occurs most Saturday mornings in the fall and spring for two hours, where I connect with my buddy for 2 hours and teach them drills and engage in scrimmages to establish a fun and inclusive community for the kids.

 As a longtime member of the Student Government Association at my school, I have served as both the secretary and Vice President for the school community, demonstrating leadership through creating activities and organizing events like homecoming and club day. Additionally, my Junior year I served as the Vice President for the Red Cross Club at my school and managed to host a blood drive for the school and Westfield community. My peers are able to come to me with questions and concerns, knowing that I’m a reputable source to inform them with adequate information. With a presence in the environment of the classroom, I aim to always take charge and be the organizational figure within a group whether it be completing a project or assignment for the class. Through these extracurricular activities, I have the proper background of a well-rounded leader that has helped me develop my leadership skills in the sports environment.

 In Freshman year I went on a day trip for my school called UC Step. This was a full day convention at Kean University where I talked with students all over Union County. We had breakout sessions with activities to build on our public speaking and leadership skills. I ended up winning the Susan Hudak Leadership award for my group where only around 10 out of the 200 students in the program won. I have a weighted GPA of 4.08, and I have a 33 on the ACT. I’m currently an AP Scholar after my Junior year. I’m a part of the National Honors Society and Spanish Honors society. I also received the seal of biliteracy for Spanish. As a DECA member, the past year I qualified for states in the hospitality and tourism sector. This past summer, I earned 3 college credits from the University of Maryland taking a semester course for 3 weeks called The Enterprising Leader learning about entrepreneurship earning a 4.0 at the end of the course.

I have been on Varsity Flag Football since freshman year with a title of First Team All division in the BCC Conference. I have a total of 533 rushing years from my sophomore and junior year with my longest touchdown run of 102 yards my junior year. I was the leading rusher with 346 yards my sophomore season.

Outside of my Flag Football season, my coach is the head coach of our Boys Varsity Tackle Football team, so I help out during their season by taking defensive stats for their games. I work with a few teammates from flag as well and we are considered the girls football managers for their season, taking stats and uploading them onto NJ.com for writers to write about the game or coaches and players to see individual stats of each player. At every football game, I stand on the sidelines with my notepad, recording the jersey numbers of players that made solo and assisted tackles, TFLs, Sacks, Fumble recovery, pass deflections and more. This has developed my football IQ immensely being a part of the football environment often and being able to observe everything firsthand on the field instead of viewing from afar on the bleachers 

 I have played soccer ever since kindergarten. It was until Freshman year where I realized the intensity of what high school soccer looked like with summer training and the tension between the players and the coaches. I felt defeated and frustrated after most practices, knowing I was falling out of love for the sport, and it felt like a chore every day. That was until I started flag football where I found my true passion for sports. Starting flag football was an autonomous choice whereas soccer was the sport all the parents in town got their kids into. The difference was that I chose football, and I saw my life becoming more vibrant, knowing that my decision made me feel more confident and I truly had a good time whenever I was playing.

 I was sitting in my homeroom class watching my school’s morning announcements until I saw a flyer pop up on the screen about signing up for the Girls Flag Football team. I’ve grown up playing jackpot with my family friends, but I never thought I’d get to the point where I was running plays and making tackles in real games. I was the only freshman on the team where the Flag Football program was only in its second year of existence at my school. After the first practice, I couldn’t stop talking about the drills we did and the scrimmages. The adrenaline I felt holding the ball close to my chest and running up the sidelines made me feel so alive. The first week of practice really changed my perspective on football from a male-dominated sport to something that I was actively involved in.

Courage (Team Leadership or Achievement Despite Adversity) 

I chose leadership because I shop lots of leadership to my teammates ,family and coach’s 

I demonstrate leadership by picking other up if they made a bad play and help the other team up when getting tackled 

I demonstrate leadership in my community by setting good examples 

By helping my classmates if they don’t understand the topic 

I made honor roll 

I rushed for 233 yards on Uniondale I made all conference last year 

Making it to playoffs 

Obstacles I face is never giving up doing something you love the most for me which is football 

I got involved in football by playing since I was 3 years old and I never stopped playing

Courage (Team Leadership or Achievement Despite Adversity) 

I chose courage because I believe courage means continuing to push forward even when things are difficult or uncomfortable. Football has taught me to face challenges instead of running away from them and to stay confident when things do not go as planned. I try to show courage by stepping up for my teammates, accepting challenges, and giving my best effort even when the situation is difficult. I believe having courage has helped me grow as a football player, student, and leader. 

I demonstrate leadership by setting an example for my teammates through my effort, attitude, and commitment. On the field, I communicate with my teammates, encourage them, and step up when my team needs me. Off the field, I try to be someone my teammates can trust and depend on. I believe a true leader shows courage by doing what is right and helping others become better.

 I demonstrate leadership in my community by being willing to help others and represent my community in a positive way. I try to use my time and opportunities to make a difference for the people around me. I believe leadership means being willing to step up when someone needs help. I want my actions to show younger people that they can make a positive impact too.

I demonstrate leadership in the classroom by taking my education seriously and staying committed to my goals. I work hard to balance academics with football and my other responsibilities. I participate, stay accountable, and encourage my classmates to stay focused. I believe having the courage to ask questions, accept challenges, and keep improving has helped me become a stronger student.

• Honor student throughout high school
• Strong academic performance while balancing football

 I am a varsity football player at East Orange Campus High School who contributes as a linebacker. During the 2025 season, I recorded a 9-yard sack against Bloomfield while helping East Orange continue its undefeated start to the season. In 2026, I returned as a senior linebacker and was part of the defense that helped East Orange defeat Union City 33–29. I continue to contribute as a defensive leader and compete at a high level for East Orange Campus.

Going out and helping the homeless and giving back to the community when it’s needed

I have faced challenges that have tested my confidence and determination. Football taught me that obstacles are part of the journey and that giving up is not an option. When things get difficult, I remind myself why I started and continue working toward my goals. Football has helped me become stronger mentally and has given me the courage to keep pushing forward.

I first got involved in football because I loved the competition, energy, and brotherhood that came with being part of a team. As I continued playing, I realized football was about much more than just winning games. It taught me discipline, accountability, toughness, and how to work with others. Football has become a major part of my life and has helped shape the person I am today.

Courage (Team Leadership or Achievement Despite Adversity) 

I feel I excel most in the category of Courage because I have learned to respond to setbacks by working harder instead of letting them discourage me. During my sophomore football season, I did not earn the starting quarterback position, which was disappointing because I had hoped to play the position for three years. Instead of giving up, I continued working hard and earned a starting position on defense while also getting opportunities to play quarterback in varsity games later in the season. This experience taught me that even when things do not go the way I want, I can use the setback as motivation to keep improving and contribute to my team in whatever way I can. 

Being a senior, starting quarterback, and captain, I demonstrate leadership by setting an example for my teammates both on and off the field. During games, I try to bring energy from the first play to the last and make sure my teammates’ spirits stay up, even when things are not going our way. I also try to stay calm, communicate with my teammates, and encourage everyone to keep working and believing in each other. Off the field, I make an effort to be someone younger players can look up to and help create a great experience for the team.

 I demonstrate leadership in my community by being involved in activities where I can help and positively influence others. At a campground that I go to, I help run activities for younger kids throughout the summer, making sure everyone is involved and has a good experience. Through Heroes and Cool Kids, I have also had the opportunity to mentor younger students and encourage positive decision-making. I try to lead by being someone younger people can look up to and by helping make the communities I am part of better.

I demonstrate leadership in the classroom by being willing to challenge myself and work through difficult topics instead of giving up when something does not come easily. I try to be a positive and dependable classmate who is willing to help others when I can. Through 4 AP classes and activities such as Math League and NHS, I have learned to work with others and contribute to the people around me. I believe classroom leadership is about setting a good example through my effort, attitude, and willingness to keep learning, along with helping the people around me and not only focusing on myself.

•  SADD-Freshman, Sophomore, Junior Year
• NHS- Junior Year
• Math League-Freshman, Sophomore, Junior Year
• Hero’s and Cool Kids- Junior Year
• Spotswood athletic leadership council – Junior Year
• Took 4 AP classes

• Starting Quarterback — Sophomore(JV), Junior(Both), and Senior Year(Varsity)
• Varsity Football Captain —
• Senior Year Student Athlete of the Month —
• Sophomore and Junior Year (Fall) Varsity Football —
• Started on JV freshman year and became a varsity starter sophomore year
• Varsity Track & Field 
• Basketball — JV Freshman and Sophomore Year

One personal accomplishment I am most proud of is building my own vehicle detailing business while also balancing school, sports, and work. I started the business by getting customers through connections, social media, and personal advertising, and I have continued to grow it through my own effort. I am also proud of being able to buy my first car with the money I earned myself after saving from working. Both experiences have taught me how to be responsible with my time, work hard for the things I want, and take initiative instead of waiting for opportunities to come to me.

One of the biggest obstacles I faced in football was breaking my shoulder during my freshman season after playing in only three games. The hardest part was how long everything took to heal and being forced to watch from the sidelines while my team continued playing. The experience challenged me to prove how badly I wanted to get back on the field and taught me not to take the opportunity to play football for granted. Since then, I have tried to appreciate every game I get to play and give everything I have because I know at any point it can end just as fast as it starts.

 I first got involved in football in seventh grade when I decided to play for a local recreational team. I enjoyed the sport and the competitiveness of it, so I continued playing and eventually joined my high school team. I started on JV my freshman year and worked my way into a starting varsity role by sophomore year. Since then, football has become one of the biggest parts of my high school experience and has taught me a lot about teamwork, perseverance, and leadership.

Classroom 

I chose this category because I always try to put in more effort than what is expected of me. One example was when I struggled with a difficult assignment, but instead of giving up, I spent extra time reviewing the material and asking questions until I understood it. I made sure to use the feedback I received to improve my work and learn from my mistakes. This showed my determination and willingness to go above and beyond in the classroom. 

 I demonstrate leadership by setting a good example for my teammates through my work ethic, attitude, and commitment. On the field, I communicate with my teammates, encourage them, and hold them accountable. Off the field, I make sure I stay responsible in school, support my teammates, and represent my team the right way. As a captain, I try to lead by example and bring my team together.

 I demonstrate leadership in my community by being someone others can depend on and by setting a positive example. I try to help others whenever I can, whether that is supporting younger students, helping teammates, or getting involved in school activities. I try to make a positive impact on the people around me using my actions.

 I demonstrate leadership in the classroom by staying focused, participating, and setting a good example for my classmates. I am willing to help others when they are struggling and contribute to group discussions. I also try to encourage others to stay motivated.

•  4.67 Weighted GPA
• Top 5% of Graduating Class
• 9th Grade  – Superintendent’s Award 2 Quarters & Principal’s Award 2 Quarters
• 10th Grade – Superintendent’s Award 4 Quarters
• 11th Grade – Honor Roll 1 Quarter, Principal’s Award 2 Quarters and Superintendent’s Award 1 Quarter

•  Big State Sports Player of the Game Week 2
• NJIC All-Conference 2nd Team Football
• Team Captain Football
• (Wrestling) 6th place 285 Bergen County Tournament 
• (Wrestling) 3rd Place 285 District Tournament –
• NJIC All Conference 2nd Team Wrestling

 One of the accomplishments I am most proud of is earning my associate’s degree while still in high school. I will be finishing my classes and graduating with my associate’s from Bergen Community College in May.

 One of the biggest obstacles I have faced was coming back from a significant knee injury last year. Football taught me to stay disciplined, work through challenges, and remain focused even when things did not go as planned. My teammates and coaches helped keep me motivated, and the experience made me more resilient both on and off the field.

I always had a love for the game of football from a young age, but because of my mother initially not wanting me to play, and the COVID-19 Pandemic later down the road, I had not started organized football until 8th grade. Even though I had not started until 8th grade I would always play backyard football with friends. I have always loved the game.

Community 

Community service through sport is where I’ve put my heart into giving back. As president and lead ski instructor for MKA’s Winter4Kids chapter, I help bring underprivileged, inner-city kids onto the mountain, turning a sport that’s often out of reach into something joyful and accessible. Every summer, I volunteer as a surf instructor with the Parents of Autistic Children Surf Camp, working one-on-one with autistic youth to help them experience the freedom of catching a wave. And each year, my football team and I play in a flag football game with Special Angels Rec in Lyndhurst, NJ, sharing the game I love with kids who don’t always get the chance to play it competitively. Skiing, surfing, football — in each case, I’ve tried to use the sport I’m passionate about as a way to include kids who might otherwise be left out, whether because of cost, disability, or opportunity. It’s not something I do once in a while; it’s a commitment I’ve kept up across seasons and communities, and it’s taught me as much about character and teamwork as any game has. 

Leadership, to me, means setting the tone for others before you’re ever asked to. I’ve been part of our team’s Leadership Council since freshman year, and this season, as a senior, I’m one of our two captains. I ran our summer field workouts and lifts, trying to build the kind of discipline and habits that carry over into the season. This season, I’ve focused on bringing positive energy and holding our team to a higher standard, on and off the field, and it’s paid off: we won our first game, and I contributed two touchdowns, 121 rushing yards, and eight solo tackles. But the moment that really tested what leadership means to me came in that same game. In a freak tackling accident right before halftime, my ear was crushed in my helmet, splitting the helix and breaking away some of the cartilage. I needed a plastic surgeon to reconstruct it. Even so, I got patched up enough in the locker room to get back out to the sideline for the second half, because my team needed me there. Leading isn’t just about what you do when things are going well; it’s also about showing up for your guys even when it hurts.

Leadership in my community shows up both in titles and in quieter ways. I’m captain of the football and lacrosse teams, served 2 terms as class president in student government, and I was selected through a competitive application to be one of six student-athletes on our Student Athletic Council, where we work on leadership, spirit, and sportsmanship, help address issues student-athletes are facing, and celebrate their achievements. I was also chosen as one of 15 seniors, again through a competitive application, to be a Peer Leader, mentoring incoming freshmen as they adjust to high school. But leadership isn’t only about the roles you’re given. It’s also about what you choose to do when no one asks you to. Giving back has always mattered to me, and I try to show my peers that through action rather than just talk. When I noticed that students who wanted to volunteer and organizations that needed volunteers often couldn’t find each other, I built a website to connect them — solving a problem on both sides that nobody had assigned me to solve. To me, that’s the kind of leadership that matters most: seeing a need and quietly stepping up to meet it. 

In the classroom, teachers count on me to fully engage in discussions. I ask questions, share my opinions, and encourage my classmates to take chances with their own ideas. And when I can, I try to bring some levity and fun to the table. But my leadership in the classroom isn’t limited to the one I’m sitting in. Administrators have trusted me to spearhead our school’s first AI Council, something that impacts every student and every classroom at my school, because they know I will collaborate with students and faculty to help determine the best path forward, using AI as a tool rather than a forbidden crutch.

• Honor Roll – Fall 2023, Spring 2024, Fall 2024, Spring 2025, Fall 2025, Spring 2026
• Mary K Waring Scholar Award (fall+spring high honor roll)
• 2025 All-Academic Team
• Super Essex Conference, 2026
• Honorable Mention, AATSP National Spanish Exam, 2024
• Presidential Service Award, 9th/10th
• MKA Service Award, 11th 

• MIFL Southern Division Champs 2024 (Football)
• Honorable Mention SEC All-Conference, 2026 (Lacrosse)
• SEC All-Academic Team, 2026 (Lacrosse)
• Coaches’ Award 2024, 2026 (Lacrosse) 

To see personal accomplishments go here.

Last summer, my dad, John, was diagnosed with a 9/11-related cancer (he worked downtown in 2001). He had surgery right as the 2025 season was starting, and even while he was recovering, he didn’t miss a single game. My dad played football himself, and he’s always been one of our biggest fans, so watching him push through recovery just to be on that sideline meant everything to me. Watching him do it was like watching everything football has taught me — resilience, determination, showing up for the people who count on you — play out right in front of me, off the field instead of on it. He’s still undergoing treatment this season, but his prognosis is excellent, and you can still count on him being the first one in the stands before every game. My coaches and teammates have shown up for me, and my whole family, in ways I won’t forget. That’s what makes this sport different. It’s not just a game; it’s a band of brothers, and mine showed up when it mattered most. 

Football has been a part of my life since 6th grade, when I first suited up for my middle school team. I wasn’t the biggest or fastest guy out there, but coaches, teammates, and parents all said the same thing — that I played with more heart than anyone. In 7th and 8th grade, while my older brother was playing on the high school team, I found my own way to stay close to the game: I became the water boy. I took it seriously, running water out to guys whenever they needed it, and I guess I brought enough energy to it that parents in the stands started calling me “HT1” — Hydro Tech 1, their own version of QB1. It stuck as a running joke, but looking back, that’s where I really learned what it means to show up for a team, even before I had a starting spot of my own.

Courage (Team Leadership or Achievement Despite Adversity) 

The weekend of my junior year states semi-final and championship games I had sports 3 days back-to-back. On that Friday I had to travel to Maryland for a Underarmour flag showcase, Saturday morning I had my class LL state track meet, and Sunday I had my semi-final and championship games for class L flag football states. Even through the exhaustion and knee and shin injury, I powered through all three days and led my team to our second state championship. Despite the emotional and physical pain, I persevered for my team and ended the weekend with medals and a smile on all my teammate’s faces. 

On the field, I consistently lead by example through my effort, intensity, and by being the first to help a teammate up after a play. I Communicate clearly, providing encouragement and guidance to keep morale high, especially during challenging moments. Off the field, I hold myself along with my teammates accountable to team standards, ensuring everyone is punctual and prepared for everything that they face. Build genuine relationships with my peers, as showing I care about them as individuals builds the trust necessary for effective leadership. Finally, I maintain a disciplined lifestyle that reflects my commitment to the team, proving that I am dedicated to excellence in every aspect of my life.

I make sure to mentor younger players everywhere that I go to show commitment to my roots, passion, and love for the sport. I Always act respectfully in public, as I represent my team and school as well as stay aware of the fact that my actions reflect my coaches and teammates. I always Lead by being the most helpful and hardworking person in every situation. I try my best to be a kind and compassionate person to everyone around me in order to show and guide the teammates currently with me as well as the girls working and growing to be in my position soon. 

 I lead by example by arriving prepared, staying engaged, and participating actively in discussions. I try my best to offer help to classmates who are struggling with difficult concepts to build a supportive learning environment. Stay focused and minimize distractions, encouraging my peers to prioritize their academic goals. I always Communicate respectfully with teachers and students, demonstrating maturity and accountability in every interaction. I make sure to Consistently demonstrate a positive attitude toward learning to inspire those around me to do their best. 

Maintaining over a 3.0 gpa all of high school.

• Max preps girls flag football 2026 CT player of the year
• 2x state championship in flag football
• First ever to win a ciac official states championship in girls flag football in Connecticut on June 7th, 2025
• 2x all state and class LL champion triple jumper
• UA next 2026 mvp in Maryland
• USA talent of camp 2026 mvp in Pennsylvania
• Turkey bowl 2025 mvp and champion in Boston
• Unrivaled flag high school girl’s nationals 2026 championship division all-tournament team.

Staying true to myself no matter what challenges I Face or how much pressure I have to shoulder!

 For most of my life I have been a quiet kid, scared to speak up and stand up for myself. It got to the point where people were treating me however they wanted without any regard for my feelings. After transitioning to a quarterback, I was able to find the confidence to be myself. Because of flag football I now have a voice that I use to encourage both myself and the people around me every day.

Watching my older brother play tackle and my father’s coach, I fell in love with the passion and competitiveness of the sport. Although my father would not allow me to join the boys’ tackle team as I hoped, I was granted permission to join a flag league. When I first started there were no all-girl leagues, I was forced to play with the boys and learn how to be aggressive and assertive both in and off of the field. As the years went by, the sport grew quickly and I was soon able to play with young girls with the same enthusiasm and dreams as me.

Courage (Team Leadership or Achievement Despite Adversity) 

I always strive to be the best captain i can be for my team, whether that means encouraging my teammates, giving constructive criticism, answering questions, or staying after practice to help a teammate improve their technique. I make an effort to never become overly confident or put myself above my team. Football is a team sport, and as a captain, I believe it is my responsibility to help ensure that we operate as one unit. I want my teammates to know I am someone they can rely on, both on and off the field. 

I demonstrate leadership on the field by never asking someone to do something that I wouldn’t or don’t do myself, I make sure that I always compete and set the bar for excellence to encourage those around me to strive to be the best they can on the field. Off the field I’m always there to help a teammate in need involving any aspect of their life, I’m a very social guy and always hope to come off as approachable to my teammates off the field whether they are seeking advice or a friend.

 In my community I am known as a leader due to the fact that I’m the captain of 3 sports 2 of them being very popular, I end up being the leader of a lot of parent’s kids in my community. This leads to parents respecting me and coming to me sometimes to ensure that their kid is safe and doing well because I have a perspective that they don’t get to see as parents. Whenever teammates are misbehaving, which is not often, I usually hear about it quickly because the community knows that the guys listen to me.

 In the classroom, I love working in groups because being in a team of any kind is fun for me. I really like teamwork in the classroom because it is actually very similar to being a team on the field. Each person has a job and is expected to do it to their best ability. I don’t force myself to be a leader in group work demanding people around, what I like to do is just be as helpful as I can in project work or just classwork when the teacher is looking for questions.

Earned High Honor Roll and a 3.82 GPA in my junior year.

All League in wrestling and lacrosse 2 years in a row and All League in Football last year

I’m very proud of my volunteer work in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit at Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital.

My work ethic was poor before football and after football I found myself performing better in the classroom and being a better person overall to the people around me. I was doing something I loved, and it made me happy and worked harder on and off the field.

Before 7th grade I always wanted to play tackle football but in my district tackle football starts in 7th grade. So, I joined as soon as I could and have not stopped playing since 7th grade.

Courage (Team Leadership or Achievement Despite Adversity) 

I believe I deserve this recognition because I always try to show good character, be a leader, and give my best effort both in school and on the football field. I have had to take responsibility for finding my own rides to football practices, but I never let that stop me from showing up, working hard, and being there for my teammates. I also go above and beyond by attending youth practices and helping younger players, because I want to be a positive role model for them. I try to lead by example, support my teammates, and show that no matter what challenges I face, I will continue to work hard and be there for my team. 

I demonstrate leadership by putting my team before myself and doing whatever is needed to help us succeed. One example is when I moved from a skill position to the offensive line because our team needed help there, even though it meant playing a position I was less comfortable with. Off the field, I try to be a positive role model for my teammates and younger players by showing up, working hard, and encouraging others. I believe true leadership is about being selfless, leading by example, and doing what is best for the team.

I demonstrate leadership in my community by giving my time to help others and being someone younger students can look up to. As a member of Key Club, I participate in service opportunities and try to make a positive difference in my community. I also volunteer as a youth football coach, where I help younger players learn the game, develop their skills, and understand the importance of teamwork and good character. I enjoy giving back because I know how much positive role models and mentors can mean to someone, and I want to be that person for others.

 I demonstrate leadership in the classroom by being respectful, responsible, and prepared to learn. I make an effort to arrive to class on time and sit in the front of the classroom so I can stay focused and engaged. I respect my teachers and classmates and try to set a positive example through my attitude and work ethic. I believe being a leader in the classroom means taking school seriously, being willing to participate, and encouraging others to do their best.

3.0 GPA 

1st Team All League 

One of the accomplishments I am most proud of is continuing to work hard and stay committed to my goals despite the challenges I have faced in my life. I am proud of becoming a leader on my football team, moving from a skill position to the offensive line when my team needed help, and always putting my teammates first. I am also proud of giving back by volunteering with youth football and being involved in Key Club. Most importantly, I am proud of the person I am becoming and the ability to keep moving forward, work hard, and be a positive example for others. 

One of the biggest obstacles I have faced is moving from home to home while living in foster care, which has made it difficult to always feel settled or know what to expect. Football has given me a sense of stability, family, and something positive to look forward to. My teammates and coaches have become people I can count on, and being on the field allows me to focus on my goals and leave some of my challenges behind. Football has taught me to stay strong, keep working hard, and never give up, even when life gets difficult.

 I got involved in football because my older brother played it, and watching him made me want to be part of the game. Over time, football became much more than just a sport to me; it became an escape from my daily life and a place where I can focus on something positive. Football has given me a family, helped me build friendships, and taught me important lessons about hard work, commitment, and overcoming challenges. When I am on the field, I can forget about everything else going on and focus on being the best teammate and player I can be. I am grateful for football because it has helped shape who I am and has given me a place where I feel like I belong.

Courage (Team Leadership or Achievement Despite Adversity) 

I chose courage because I’ve had to deal with challenges both on and off the football field, but I’ve tried not to let them stop me from doing what I love. This year I was diagnosed with Juvenile Arthritis, and even with the pain and fatigue, I’ve continued playing and earned the responsibility of being the defensive play caller for my varsity team as a sophomore. I also have dyslexia, which means I sometimes have to work harder in school while balancing being a three-sport athlete. I try to keep pushing myself, work hard, and be someone my teammates can count on, even when I’m dealing with challenges they might not know about. 

I demonstrate leadership by being vocal, staying positive, and being someone my teammates can count on both on and off the field. I was a captain of my football team in seventh and eighth grade, and as a sophomore on varsity, I have earned the responsibility of being the defensive play caller. Because we are a co-op team, I also took responsibility for communicating with the Canton players and making sure everyone knows the bus schedule and when we needed to get to Granby. I also lead by example by in the summer by attending workouts, putting in the work, and staying committed to my team throughout the year.

 I demonstrate leadership in my community by staying involved with younger athletes and trying to be someone they can look up to. I volunteer at youth sports camps and help run the scoreboard at youth basketball games. Being involved gives younger kids a chance to know me and see someone from their community who works hard and stays involved in sports. I try to set a good example for them and be someone they feel comfortable talking to or asking for help.

 I demonstrate leadership in the classroom by being responsible, respectful, and willing to participate and answer questions when asked. I try to set a good example by doing what is expected of me and treating my teachers and classmates with respect. As a varsity athlete, I take pride in representing my football team at school, and I know that how I act in the classroom reflects on more than just me. I try to carry myself in a way that represents my team, coaches, and school well.

 As a freshman, I earned High Honors during both semesters of high school. Averaging an A-B grade while having dyslexia.

 In eighth grade, I was named to the Nutmeg All-Conference Team and was selected by my teammates to receive the Distant Relay Award, an award given by our Mudhogs football program to a captain who represents the program, is a strong leader, and is someone his teammates look up to. Also As a freshmen in high school, I earned Honorable Mention All-Conference in football and earned three varsity letters. I also started on varsity in both football and lacrosse as a freshman while contributing as a role player on the varsity basketball team. Being able to represent my teams and compete at the varsity level in three sports as a freshman is something I am very proud of.

I am most proud of learning how to overcome the challenges of dyslexia and not letting it define what I can accomplish. I am also proud of the importance I place on my family and being there to support them whenever they need me.

One of the biggest obstacles I have faced is dyslexia, which has made school more challenging and sometimes requires me to put in extra time and effort to be successful. Football has always given me a positive distraction from the stress of school and a place where I can clear my head and focus on something I love. It has also taught me discipline, perseverance, and that struggling with something does not mean you give up on it. The confidence I have gained through football has helped me approach challenges in school with the same determination I bring to the field.

 I first got involved in football in first grade because of my dad, who introduced me to the game and encouraged me to play. Football has always been a big part of my family, especially with my uncle having worked as an NFL scout and now serving as an assistant GM for the Florida Gators. Growing up around the game made me want to learn as much as I could about it, both on and off the field. Ever since I was young, I have loved watching, playing, and simply being around football, and that passion has only grown as I’ve gotten older.