Celebrating Excellence: NJ Youth Soccer Awards Banquet presented by RWJBarnabas Health
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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