By ROHAN ROY, freshman

Though the year started with uncertainty, a new coaching staff and revamped football plays helped the Hawks pulled off a decisive opening-day victory over the Marlboro High School Mustangs. This staff includes offensive coordinator Vinny Gioffre, wide receiver/defensive back coach Chris Garcia, offensive/defensive line coaches Joe Rovito and Mike Pielech, and most importantly, newly appointed head coach Jim Collins.

Jim Collins’ experience as an assistant at Colonia High School and Union High School has aided him in revitalizing the football program at JP. One of the new strategies he has implemented is introducing the spread offense tactic (a quick play using three to five wide receivers and one running back), which has become a vital feature of this year’s brand new running game. Coach Collins’ strategy is to maximize the talent of one of the best running backs in Middlesex County, captain, and Ivy League recruit Chiebuka “Chewy” Chukwuneke (12). Chewy has been a central player, propelling the team to several key wins in the past three seasons. Last year, his accomplishments included gaining 1,200 yards, 16 touchdowns, and 325 receiving yards. Assisting Chewy is senior quarterback Ryan Schneider, whose sharp passes provide the foundation for Chewy’s long runs. Together, this pair creates a strong main framework for Coach Collins’ intricate strategies and plays to work off of.

The new techniques and vision of Coach Collins, along with the experience and skill of the players on the team, have laid a solid foundation for the revival of the Hawks, pushing them to play and hold their ground in the GMCs.