Celebrating Excellence: NJ Youth Soccer Awards Banquet presented by RWJBarnabas Health
- Author
- Ham Radio Productions
- Published
- Tue 11 Feb 2025
- Episode Link
- None
In this episode of Greetings from the Garden State, we cover the NJ Youth Soccer Awards Banquet presented by RWJBarnabas Health in Edison, NJ. Host Mike Ham interviews award-winning players, legendary figures, and key stakeholders shaping NJ youth soccer.
Featured Guests & Segments:
Segment 1: Rising Stars of NJ Youth Soccer
- Gabriel Wahby – Save of the Year
- Describes his game-winning save and technique.
- Melissa Pires – Goal of the Year
- Talks about her stunning top-corner goal.
- Bobby Kaupas – Comeback Player of the Year
- Shares his inspiring journey returning from surgery.
Segment 2: Soccer Legends Panel
- Tab Ramos, John Harkes, Tony Meola
- Discuss NJ’s rich soccer culture and the 2026 FIFA World Cup impact.
Segment 3: Champions & Teams Making History
- Mark Surretsky (Cedar Stars Academy) – USYS National Champion
- Tomas Monteiro (Ironbound SC) – USYS Eastern Regional Champion
- Alyssa Manasse (Rutgers Prep, NJ ODP, U.S. Inter Regional Team)
Segment 4: The Future of NJ Soccer
- Skip Gilbert (CEO, U.S. Youth Soccer) & Lauren LaRusso (NY/NJ World Cup Host Committee)
- Discuss the 2026 FIFA World Cup and its youth impact.
Segment 5: Youth Soccer & Community Impact
- Evan Dabby (NJ Youth Soccer)
- Highlights initiatives to expand soccer access.
- Nan Vogel (Gotham FC)
- Discusses Keeper in the Game initiative.
- Dr. Jason Krystofiak (Gotham FC, RWJ Barnabas Health)
- Talks player wellness & injury prevention programs.
Key Takeaways:
- NJ soccer is thriving, producing national champions & inspiring stories.
- The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be a game-changer for NJ soccer.
- Community partnerships (Gotham FC, RWJ Barnabas Health, NJ Youth Soccer) are vital.
- Inspiration for young players: Hard work & passion open doors.
Special Thanks to Our Sponsors:
- New Jersey Lottery – Supporting youth sports
- RWJ Barnabas Health – Promoting player wellness
- Gotham FC – Advancing women’s soccer in NJ
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