Division Returners: American Gold
As we move onto American Gold, we have a few returners from last years addition as well as some new faces on the scene. American Gold was overpowered by senior talent, so there weren’t a ton of juniors and sophomores…
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Continue ReadingAs we move onto American Gold, we have a few returners from last years addition as well as some new faces on the scene. American Gold was overpowered by senior talent, so there weren’t a ton of juniors and sophomores that got to take the reins on offense or defense. However, with the limited reps they may have gotten, there is a lot to look forward to in 2024.
One of the biggest playmakers in the division, Hector Lopez Hector Lopez 5’8″ | LB Hanover Park | 2025 NJ is ready to make his biggest impact yet in his senior year. One of the most dominant linebackers in the state, Hector can do everything a coach asks of him. Getting involved in every play, Hector is one of the best tacklers in the state as runners rarely get away from him. With a nose for the ball, Hector is consistently found in the backfield blowing up the play or chasing a runner to the sideline. Making 88 tackles in 2024 and complimenting that with 4 sacks, a forced fumble, and 2 interceptions, offenses need to be worried when going up against Hector Lopez Hector Lopez 5’8″ | LB Hanover Park | 2025 NJ .
Mike Mignone
Mike Mignone
A two way starter for Caldwell, Mike Mignone, is ready to take the control and play a big part in Caldwell’s continued success in 2024. Defensively, Mike has already played a huge role in how dominant their defense was. A threat to offenses in the pass and run game, Mike not only picked the ball off 3 times but also found his way to the QB 3 times as well. Offensively, Mike was able to make an impact in the pass game as he caught 3 touchdowns and 323 yards. Look for Mike to impress on both sides of the ball in 2024.
PJ DiMaiolo
PJ DiMaiolo
Earning 2nd team all division from the skill position, PJ DiMaiolo is ready to take that next step and a play a larger role in his teams offense. A receiver for Hanover Park, PJ was able to rack up 247 yards and 2 touchdowns in 2023. While those numbers don’t jump out at you, there’s good reason to believe PJ and Hanover Park are moving in the right direction as they were able to make a playoff push last season. Look for them to take it a step further in 2024.
Connor DeMasi
Connor DeMasi
One of the top passers in the state, Connor DeMasi lit it up for Verona in 2023. Arguably the top athlete returning in the division, Connor was able to find the endzone 12 times last season and throw for 2046 yards. A passer that throws with precision, I am most impressed with Connor’s confidence throwing into traffic. He is patient in the pocket and has a cannon of an arm, which he uses to hit his receiver deep downfield in stride. With the ability to throw his man open, no throw is too challenging for Connor to complete.
Nick Moyano
Nick Moyano
Only a sophomore in 2023, Nick Moyano helped Caldwell produce one of the best defensive units in the state. With 28 tackles on the season and an interception in the final game of the season, there is good reason to believe Nick will be filling big shoes in 2024 as a host of talented seniors from Caldwell will be moving onto the next level. Keep your eyes on Caldwell as the underclassmen play a more prominent role next season.