The Delbarton football program enters the 2025 season looking to build on the success of last fall, when the Green Wave posted a 7–3 record, captured a United division championship, and earned a non-public home playoff game. While a large group of starters graduated in June, this year's roster features a promising blend of veteran leadership, young talent, and key newcomers ready to make their mark.
Captains Matt Tafuri and Michael Sclafani set the tone for the Green Wave. Tafuri, a versatile player, returns as a centerpiece of the Delbarton offense and a steady presence in the backfield after spending two seasons in the slot as a RB/WR. Sclafani, meanwhile, provides leadership on the defensive side at linebacker, where he anchors a unit that will be tested early and often.
The defense brings back a strong secondary with seniors Nick Stoll and Chase Houser, along with sophomore standout Chaz Cusimano, who impressed as an underclassman last season. On the defensive line, senior Chris Dadas returns after a season-ending injury in 2024, pairing with the consistent play of Devin Martin to give Delbarton strength up front. At linebacker, senior Emmett Caughey adds experience and depth to Coach Leotti's defense.
Offensively, Delbarton will look to establish balance under coordinator Luke Chiarolanzio. The running game is led by Tafuri and Kobe Irby-Mason, while wide receivers Girard Yoo and Grant Van Raaphorst return to provide reliable options in the passing attack. Under center, the Green Wave will feature new faces, with junior Gavin Gilardi and freshman Jayden Schmalz competing to replace graduate quarterback Jadon Prinzivalli.
Up front, the offensive line will take shape around returners Jack Christie, Tanner Koss, and Matthew Shivas. The group will also be bolstered by Randolph transfer Brooks Koepke, who brings added size, strength and experience.
Delbarton once again faces one of the state's most demanding schedules. The Green Wave open the year on August 30 with a road trip to Ohio to face nationally ranked St. Edward. A September 13 home opener against Monsignor Farrell (NY) follows, along with another out-of-state challenge at Malvern Prep (PA). Within New Jersey, the Super Football Conference slate offers no easy task, featuring match ups with St. Peter's Prep, Seton Hall Prep, Pope John, Bergen Catholic, DePaul Catholic, and Paramus Catholic.
The 2025 season presents an opportunity for a young and talented Delbarton roster to grow under the leadership of its captains and head coach Brian Bowers. With its "win this play" mentality, the Green Wave will look to continue their tradition of competing at the highest level against elite opponents in New Jersey and beyond.