After two consecutive postseason runs that had Middletown High School North’s boys varsity soccer team viewed as a formidable contender, the 2024 season brought new challenges for the Lions. An inconsistent regular season culminated in tough first-round losses in both the Shore Conference Tournament (SCT) to Wall and the NJSIAA Tournament to Chatham, ending hopes of extending their postseason success.
The offseason saw the graduation of several key players, most notably top striker Josiah Stepney and All-Shore defender Ryan Barnao, who left sizeable gaps on both ends of the field. Along with six other starters—including midfielder Nick Dinella and goalkeeper Connor Marinelli—the team faces a significant rebuild under Head Coach Eric Morley, now entering his sixth season.
Despite the departures, Middletown North retains a core of proven talent. Seniors Paul Que, Cam DelGrosso, and Christos Dounis stand out as leaders across the formation: Que spearheads the attack with six goals and 12 assists last year, DelGrosso commands the midfield with seven goals and 11 assists, and Dounis anchors the defense as a center fullback. Senior forward Louis Romeo also emerged last season with five goals, demonstrating his ability to contribute offensively.
Adding fresh energy to the squad is freshman midfielder Julian Crampton, who is poised to earn significant playing time right away. Juniors Ryan Otero, Dolan Dunigan, Andrew Polanco, and goalkeeper Niko Kamnitsis will be vital to stabilizing the team through the midfield and goal, while seniors Alex Watts and juniors Matt Ruchaevsky bolster the defensive line.
Coach Morley remains optimistic despite the challenges. “We’ve lost a lot of key players, no question, but this is an opportunity for others to step up,” he said. “Our young guys are talented, and the seniors are ready to lead. If we stay healthy and come together as a team, I believe we’ll be competitive in what’s a very tough division.”
Middletown North competes in a loaded division that includes perennial powerhouses like Central, Rumson-Fair Haven, St. Rose, and Donovan Catholic. While the path back to the SCT and beyond will be difficult, the Lions appear poised to build momentum and peak in the crucial October stretch.
Middletown North Breakdown
Head Coach: Eric Morley (6th season)
2024 Record: 9-9 overall (2-4 in Class A Central, 6th place)
Key Losses: Josiah Stepney (F), Ryan Barnao (D), Nick Dinella (M), Ethan Kinch (M), Dylan Croce (D), Connor Marinelli (GK), Declan Chenoweth (D), Giovanni Reyes (So., M)
Potential Starters:
Paul Que, Sr., Forward (6 goals, 12 assists)
Louis Romeo, Sr., Forward (5 goals)
Cam DelGrosso, Sr., Midfield (7 goals, 11 assists)
Ryan Otero, Jr., Midfield
Dolan Dunigan, Jr., Midfield
Julian Crampton, Fr., Midfield
Andrew Polanco, Jr., Midfield
Christos Dounis, Sr., Defense
Matt Ruchaevsky, Jr., Defense
Alex Watts, Sr., Defense
Niko Kamnitsis, Jr., Goalkeeper
The Lions’ journey this season will be one of resilience and growth as they aim to reclaim their place among the Shore Conference’s elite. Fans can look forward to a season full of promise as Middletown North fights to make its mark once again.
