UPDATE: The highly anticipated 19th annual Coaches Choice USA Staten Island vs. New Jersey Challenge is set to unfold this Sunday, October 15, 2023, at Moore Catholic High School in Graniteville. Basketball fans won’t want to miss this thrilling event featuring five exciting games showcasing local talent and fierce competition.
The challenge kicks off at 11 a.m. with a match-up between Tottenville and Spotswood, followed by the standout game at 12:30 p.m. where Staten Island Academy faces Bound Brook. This game is particularly noteworthy as it features two head coaches who are former Jaques Award winners—Sandy Litkenhaus and Jen Derenjanik. Litkenhaus, who won the award for the 1986-87 season, is in her inaugural year coaching SIA, while Derenjanik, a three-time Jaques winner from 1998 to 2000, leads Bound Brook in her twelfth season.
Both coaches share a common history as former stars of the now-defunct St. Peter’s Girls High School, adding an emotional layer to this clash of talent. Litkenhaus commented on the significance of the event, stating, “It’s a privilege to be part of such a storied tradition and to bring together the best of Staten Island and New Jersey.”
The full schedule for Sunday includes:
– Tottenville vs. Spotswood at 11 a.m.
– Staten Island Academy vs. Bound Brook at 12:30 p.m.
– Notre Dame Academy vs. Mount St. Mary at 2:05 p.m.
– St. Joseph by-the-Sea vs. East Brunswick at 3:45 p.m.
– Moore Catholic vs. Snyder at 5:20 p.m.
This year’s event is once again made possible through the efforts of former Islander and St. John Villa varsity coach James Martinos, who emphasized the importance of community support in making this event happen.
With local pride on the line, this challenge is not just a series of games; it’s a celebration of athletic excellence and community spirit. Fans are encouraged to come out and support their teams, as this event promises to be a highlight of the basketball season.
Stay tuned for updates and highlights from the games, and don’t miss the action as Staten Island and New Jersey go head-to-head in this thrilling challenge!
