New Jersey is known for its deep-rooted passion for soccer, and this year’s New Jersey Youth Soccer Awards Banquet presented by RWJBarnabas Health proved exactly why. As the host of Greetings from the Garden State, I had the privilege of attending and covering the event firsthand, getting an inside look at the rising stars of the game, the legends who paved the way, and the dedicated community shaping the future of soccer in the Garden State.
Held in Edison, NJ, this event brought together over a thousand players, coaches, and supporters to celebrate the best in New Jersey youth soccer. The energy in the room was electric, with players buzzing about the awards, sharing their experiences, and even joking about the nerves of getting up on stage in front of such a massive crowd.
Highlighting the Next Generation
The night kicked off with recognizing some of the most talented young players in the state. I had the chance to sit down with three award winners: Gabriel Wahby (Save of the Year), Melissa Pires (Goal of the Year), and Bobby Kaupas (Comeback Player of the Year). Each of them had an inspiring story to tell—whether it was Gabriel’s technically masterful goal-line save, Melissa’s stunning top-corner shot, or Bobby’s journey overcoming surgery to get back on the field. Their passion and dedication to the game were evident, and it’s clear that they’re only just beginning their soccer journeys.
In addition to individual awards, I also spoke with Mark Surretsky (Cedar Stars Academy, USYS National Champion), Tomas Monteiro (Ironbound SC, USYS Eastern Regional Champion), and Alyssa Manasse (Rutgers Prep, NJ ODP, U.S. Inter Regional Team), who shared their experiences competing at the highest levels of youth soccer.
Legends of NJ Soccer Take the Stage
One of the most coolest moments of the evening was sitting down with three true Jersey soccer legends: Tab Ramos, John Harkes, and Tony Meola. Growing up, these guys were the faces of American soccer, and to hear them talk about their days in Kearny, NJ, was an unforgettable experience. We discussed how their tight-knit soccer community shaped them into the players they became, what it means for NJ to host the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and the impact these opportunities have on young players today.
The conversation was filled with nostalgia and humor—Tony even joked that the secret to their success was swimming in the Passaic River as kids! But at its core, their message was clear: New Jersey’s soccer culture is strong, and events like this ensure that the next generation has the tools to succeed at the highest level.
The Bigger Picture: Soccer’s Growth in NJ
Beyond the awards, the event highlighted the future of soccer in New Jersey and the importance of continued investment in youth development. I spoke with Skip Gilbert (CEO, U.S. Youth Soccer) and Lauren LaRusso (NY/NJ World Cup Host Committee) about how the 2026 FIFA World Cup will be a game-changer for NJ. Their excitement about the tournament was contagious, and they emphasized how hosting World Cup matches at MetLife Stadium will inspire a whole new wave of young players.
The evening also showcased the key role of community partners. RWJ Barnabas Health, Gotham FC, and New Jersey Youth Soccer are all working together to ensure soccer remains accessible, safe, and a positive force in kids’ lives. Initiatives like Gotham FC’s Keeper in the Game program and RWJ Barnabas Health’s focus on injury prevention and wellness are making a lasting impact.
A Night of Collaboration and Community
I also had the opportunity to speak with Evan Dabby (Executive Director, NJ Youth Soccer), Nan Vogel (Senior VP, Gotham FC), and Dr. Jason Krystofiak (Chief Medical Officer, Gotham FC & RWJ Barnabas Health). They discussed the balance between competitive success and community engagement, emphasizing the need for accessible programs that allow all kids to enjoy and benefit from soccer.
Why This Event Matters
As someone who covers the best of what New Jersey has to offer, this event was a reminder that soccer is more than just a sport here—it’s a way of life. Whether it’s a young goalkeeper making the save of a lifetime, a team winning a national championship, or a former pro giving back to the next generation, the stories that came out of this night were nothing short of inspiring.
New Jersey is a soccer state through and through, and the New Jersey Youth Soccer Awards Banquet presented by RWJBarnabas Health was the perfect way to celebrate that. For anyone who loves the game, this event proved that the future of soccer in NJ is brighter than ever.
Be sure to check it out on Greetings from the Garden State—you won’t want to miss these incredible stories of passion, perseverance, and New Jersey pride!
Mike Ham is the voice behind the popular podcast, "Greetings From the Garden State". Traveling up and down New Jersey, Mike brings his listeners the stories of the people and places shaping the Garden State. Not only is he a Jersey diehard, he is also a respected member of the podcast community and has spoken at several podcasting conferences. As he continues to amplify the voices of New Jersey, Mike Ham remains a passionate advocate for the diverse narratives woven into the fabric of the Garden State.