AJ Rodriguez ’23, 18 November 2020
On Saturday, November 12, the Don Bosco Prep Varsity Football team faced St. Augustine in the quarterfinal of the NJSIAA – Non Public A Playoffs. The Ironmen came away with a dominant 37-0 victory over the Hermits. With this win, Bosco heads into the semifinals against Seton Hall on November 18.
This game was the return of injured running back Ronnie Heath (‘23). The Senior rushed for 66 yards, with 7 carries and a touchdown to mark his return to the team. Quarterback Nick Minicucci (‘23) had a strong game as well; he threw for 171 yards, with 9 completions out of 17 attempts and a touchdown. He also showed off once again his dual-threat capability by rushing for 42 yards with 4 carries. Running back duo Nolan James (‘25) and Logan Bush (‘24) continue to be a strong partnership. Bush ran for 79 yards with 10 carries for 2 touchdowns; James ran for 54 yards with 8 carries and a touchdown. Wide receiver Dan Parisi (‘23) had 65 yards with 4 receptions and a touchdown of his own. Kicker Jack Donnelly (‘25) was called to action for one of his first field goals this season. Sadly, his 100% streak ends this game going ⅘ PATs. Offensively, the Ironmen were able to have their way with St. Augustine.
On the defensive side, the Ironmen were strong once again, not allowing the Hermits to score a single point. Defensive back Conor Cosgrove (‘24) had an impressive game with 3 solo tackles and 2 assisted tackles; he also forced a fumble. Safety Nick Severin (‘23) followed this up with 2 solo tackles and 3 assisted tackles of his own. Linebacker Lamont Lester (‘24) was able to break through the Hermit offensive line to get himself 2 sacks, along with 2 solo tackles and 1 assisted tackle. Offensive linemen Chase Bisontis (‘23) played both sides of the ball and stepped in as a defensive linemen, garnering himself a sack and 1 solo tackle. Defensive back Mike Genadi (‘23) had a standout moment, picking up an interception. Defensively, the Ironmen were solid shutting out the Hermits.
The Ironmen look ahead to their next game against Seton Hall Prep. The Pirates are their last obstacle if they want to make it all the way to MetLife. The Ironmen are looking strong and are hoping to keep this success going.