As the NJSIAA fall sports playoffs reach their critical stages, high school athletes across New Jersey are battling for sectional and state glory. From football to soccer, field hockey, cross country, and girls volleyball, the past week has seen thrilling victories, hard-fought contests, and unexpected upsets that are shaping the postseason landscape.
Football: Ewing Falls Short Against Seasoned Seneca Squad
Friday, October 31, brought surprises in the NJSIAA football playoffs, particularly for Ewing High School. After a seven-game win streak and averaging 32 points per game, the Blue Devils ran into a formidable Seneca team in the first round of the Central Group III playoffs. Despite their season-long momentum, Ewing’s offense struggled against Seneca’s disciplined defense, managing just 140 total yards and surrendering 41 points in a 41-7 loss.
The game set the tone immediately, with Seneca returning the opening kickoff 81 yards for a touchdown and following up with a short scoring run by quarterback Anthony Tirico. Seneca’s multifaceted attack, which included passing touchdowns by Nate Sauerwald and rushing scores from Gabe Atz and Chase Horner, proved too much for Ewing, whose only score came on a 96-yard fumble return by Dasan Jones.
Head coach Al-majid Hutchins remained optimistic in the aftermath, emphasizing that this first playoff run is a stepping stone in rebuilding the program. Seniors such as quarterback Ryan Greig and wide receiver Kristian Thomas are set to continue their football careers at the collegiate level, offering a strong foundation for future seasons. The Blue Devils’ appearance also marked their first state playoff berth in nine years, underlining the progress made during Hutchins’ first season at the helm.
Soccer: Sectional Finals and State Semifinals Approach
The NJSIAA soccer state tournaments are nearing their climactic stages. Both boys and girls teams have battled through sectional finals, with winners now advancing to the upcoming group championships. The intensity of the matches highlights the depth and competitiveness of New Jersey high school soccer, where standout players and cohesive team strategies are crucial to making a deep postseason run.
Field Hockey, Cross Country, and Volleyball Updates
Field hockey teams have been competing fiercely in sectional championships, with state group matches scheduled to take place this weekend and into early next week. Meanwhile, cross country athletes are wrapping up sectional meets, with top performers qualifying for state group championships. Girls volleyball has also seen exciting matchups, with final rounds slated for next week and teams vying for a coveted state title.
Key Takeaways
The past week has underscored the unpredictable nature of high school athletics. Even dominant regular-season teams like Ewing must navigate the challenges of facing seasoned playoff opponents. Across the state, student-athletes are demonstrating resilience, skill, and sportsmanship, providing local fans with a weekend full of excitement and memorable moments.
With sectional semifinals in football approaching on Friday, November 7, and other sports advancing toward state championship contests, New Jersey’s fall sports playoffs promise more thrilling action in the coming week. For more coverage of high school sports across the state, including schedules, scores, and standout athletes, visit Explore New Jersey High School Sports.
Ewing vs. Seneca Recap
Ewing (7-3) 0 7 0 0 – 7
Seneca (8-2) 14 7 13 7 – 41
Scoring Summary
- First Quarter: Capanna 81-yard kickoff return (Hood kick), Tirico 7-yard run (Hood kick)
- Second Quarter: Dasan Jones 96-yard fumble return (Chris Jones kick), Sauerwald 54-yard pass from Tirico (Hood kick)
- Third Quarter: Sauerwald 16-yard pass from Tirico (Hood kick), Atz 23-yard run (kick failed)
- Fourth Quarter: Horner 2-yard run (Hood kick)
The coming weeks will showcase which teams rise to the challenge and which student-athletes leave a lasting mark on New Jersey high school sports this fall.
