Matawan and Keyport Athletes to Compete in Gridiron Classic

Story by Adam Hochron, adam.hochron@patch.com

During a week where temperatures are in the 90’s, the last thing most people likely think of is high school football. Even with the heat many of the top football players from the Class of 2013 will gather at Toms River North Thursday night for the 36th annual Gridiron Classic.

Matching the best from Monmouth County against their hosts from Ocean County, the game is a traditional showcase for the Shore Conference and gives the recent grads a chance to play against and with their friends and rivals one last time as high school student athletes.

The teams consist of players from every school in the conference with coaches from around the county guiding them in hopes of emerging victorious. Dan Incle, a linebacker, and Seamus Weldon, an offensive lineman, will represent Matawan. Greg Armstrong, a wide receiver, will represent Keyport and Steve Callari, a defensive back, will represent St. John Vianney. Editor's note: Read the full roster here.

According to Allshoremedia.net the Monmouth County squad will be coached by Colts Neck’s Greg LaCava. With the game being held at one of the largest schools in the county the home team will be coached by the leader of one of the smallest schools in Point Beach’s John Wagner who helped the Garnet Gulls to one of their most successful seasons in recent memory.

Ocean County will be looking to bounce back from last year’s 28-7 loss at Holmdel High School. Monmouth County now leads the series 19-15-1 and last year’s game was an offensive showcase compared to the 2011 game when Ocean won 6-3.

Kickoff is set for 7 p.m.