On Friday December 12th, the Hunterdon Central Boys and Girls basketball teams hosted a brand new Central event full of excitement and competition – Hoopfest.
The inaugural event consisted of introductions for coaches and players as well as various challenges for Central’s devoted Superfan. The night was full of pep and school spirit, with the Hunterdon Central Cheerleading team kicking off the evening with a stunning performance. The team opened the night with their skilled gameday routine, already keeping HC superfans on the edge of their seats.
Narrating the night for fans was none other than Adam Connelley, the girls team assistant coach. He started off by introducing the girl’s basketball head coach, James Casertano, who spoke on his expectations and predictions for the season. Spoiler alert: the season is looking bright, with the girls already being 2-1. The girls rallied together for two dominant wins against Ridge and Union City, showcasing their presiding presence that is bound to upset opposing teams. This year’s team is also led by three senior veterans, whose vital mentorship is sure to provide the team with connectivity and chemistry, making them a force to be reckoned with. Additionally, the team is also made up of younger talent that will leave the girls basketball program in good hands for years to come.
The boy’s basketball head coach, Kevin Grek, was also introduced and made a lasting impression on HC superfans. Coach Grek is not just impressive in the fact that he’s already formed a strong bond with the boys he coaches, but also because of his extensive resume. Grek has over a decade in coaching experience varying from coaching Division 3 to Division 1 Men’s College basketball teams. His prior experience includes his role as the graduate assistant coach at Rutgers University-Newark in 2017, as well as most recently being the men’s basketball assistant coach for NCAA Division 1 Campbell University. Before he started coaching, Grek played basketball for Kean University and served as captain for his final two years. Coach Grek’s history with basketball is a promising sign for the Central boys basketball program: with his seasoned leadership and intensive knowledge for the game, he’s bound to lead the boys to a powerful season.
After comments from the respective teams coaches it came time for player announcements. Each team’s varsity lineups were announced and greeted enthusiastically from HC superfans. The night was especially important for the players involved, as encouragement and support from the Central community are what push the teams to success and fuel their motivation to win.
Hoopfest wouldn’t have been possible without the enthusiastic support of HC superfans. Superfans had the chance to get rally towels, t-shirts, and win gift cards through raffles. And of course, the night wouldn’t be complete without some friendly competition. Superfans had the chance to participate in challenges like 3-point competitions or competitions where students went head to head to see who could make a layup, free throw, and 3 pointer first. But the most exciting challenge was when one lucky student was selected to shoot a 3 pointer for the chance to win an unbeatable prize:a 32 inch TV. That lucky student was Charlie Carlevarini. Would he succumb to the pressure of a major prize at hand, or would he deliver despite it? The answer: Charlie hit the 3 pointer with ease and walked away with a new 32 inch TV.
Students also had the chance to sit back and enjoy the night with snacks in hand. The Chick-Fil-A Cow made an appearance at Hoopfest and handed out sandwiches to eager students.
Overall, HC Hoopfest was an unprecedented night to remember full of fun games, school spirit, and support for the players and coaches involved. Be sure to keep up with the Hunterdon Central Boy’s and Girl’s basketball games, and to support them with Central pride!
