Bold Prediction: Heights Over New Providence
Nov 06, 2025
Hasbrouck Heights Set for Statement Game Against Unbeaten New Providence
Hasbrouck Heights travels to New Providence Friday night for a sectional semifinal that feels like a title game. The Aviators, 8–2, have been rolling through the playoffs and believe this is the matchup to prove they belong among North Jersey’s elite. New Providence enters 9–0, but Heights has the power, speed, and motivation to hand the Pioneers their first loss of the season.
History and Motivation
Last year, Heights fell 21–14 to New Providence in a tight semifinal. That game still stings. The Aviators’ seniors, led by quarterback Daniel Amendola and linebacker Noel Cruz, have not forgotten the missed opportunities. The team’s message this week is clear: finish what they started in 2024. Heights also owns a decisive 42–0 victory over New Providence from 2018, proving that when they execute, they dominate.
Heights Peaking at the Right Time
The Aviators enter this matchup on a four-game win streak, outscoring opponents 134–57. Their offense is balanced and efficient. Amendola has been sharp, finding top targets Brady Shine and Nick Haines in key moments. Running back Michael Napolitano is the engine, grinding out tough yards and wearing down defenses. Against Wood-Ridge, he ran for 96 yards and two touchdowns, while Shine led all receivers with 45 yards.
Defensively, Heights thrives on discipline and pressure. Russo and Cruz anchor a front seven that has smothered opposing quarterbacks, while Haines provides stability in the secondary. Their defense forced multiple turnovers in the last two games and has given up only one touchdown in the first half over that span.
Keys to the Game
Control the Line of Scrimmage: Russo and Cruz must win early to disrupt New Providence’s run-heavy offense.
Win Possession: Napolitano’s ground game needs to set the tone and keep New Providence’s offense off the field.
Limit Explosives: Haines’ coverage and Shine’s containment on the edge will be critical to stopping big plays.
Nick Haines’ Versatility: Haines has been a game-changer. If he makes an early impact, it could shift momentum in Heights’ favor.
Prediction
New Providence has blown past most of its schedule, but Heights’ physical style and balanced roster make them the toughest opponent yet. If Amendola protects the ball and the defense forces early stops, the Aviators can seize momentum.
Final Score: Hasbrouck Heights 28, New Providence 24.
The Aviators avenge last year’s loss and punch their ticket to the sectional final with a gritty road win.
Nick Haines and Aviators Fly High in State Quarterfinal Win
Nov 01, 2025
Hasbrouck Heights Dominates Wood-Ridge 41–7 in Sectional Quarterfinal
Hasbrouck Heights advanced to the North Jersey, Section 2, Group 1 semifinals with a commanding 41–7 victory over Wood-Ridge on Friday night. The Aviators exploded for 27 second-quarter points to seize control and never looked back.
First-Half Takeover
After a scoreless opening quarter, Heights took off behind senior running back Michael Napolitano, who powered in for an 11-yard touchdown to open the scoring. Moments later, Brady Shine jumped a route for a 26-yard interception return touchdown, then added a 33-yard touchdown reception and multiple extra points. Jake Summers added a 13-yard rushing score as the Aviators built a 27–0 halftime lead.
Defense and Special Teams Seal It
The defense was relentless. Joseph Russo led with seven tackles and four sacks, while Eoin Maloney and Michael Colaneri each added key stops in the backfield. Russo’s highlight came early in the third quarter when he recovered a blocked punt and returned it 17 yards for a touchdown, extending the lead to 34–0.
Closing the Door
Wood-Ridge finally got on the board in the third quarter with a one-yard touchdown run from Zaki McGhee, who led the Blue Devils with 64 yards rushing and five tackles. Heights responded quickly as Nick Haines broke free for a 31-yard touchdown run in the fourth, capping the night at 41–7.
Stat Leaders
Daniel Amendola (HH): 3 of 7, 45 yards, 1 TD
Brady Shine (HH): 3 receptions, 45 yards, 1 receiving TD, 1 interception TD, 5 PATs
Michael Napolitano (HH): 14 carries, 96 yards, 1 TD
Nick Haines (HH): 5 carries, 49 yards, 1 TD, 1 tackle
Jake Summers (HH): 5 carries, 52 yards, 1 TD, 1 tackle
Joseph Russo (HH): 7 tackles, 4 sacks, blocked punt TD
Hasbrouck Heights improved to 7–3, advancing deeper into the state playoffs with balanced offense and dominant defense. Wood-Ridge finished 4–6–1, closing its season with a tough road loss to its Meadowlands rival.
