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2009 WEIGH INS

WEIGH INS THURSDAY NIGHT IN RUTHERFORD - 9/10 AT 5:00 PM.
ALL PLAYERS AND COACHES MUST BE PRESENT WITH ROSTER, CARDS AND ORIGINAL BIRTH CERTIFICATES. ANYONE NOT ABLE TO MAKE IT NEEDS TO CONTACT THEIR COACH.

LABOR DAY STREET FAIR 9/7/09

LABOR DAY STREET FAIR IS MONDAY 9/7 - GREAT JOB AND THANK YOU TO ALL THE VOLUNTEERS, BOARD MEMBERS AND COACHES WHO MADE THIS FUND RAISER A SUCCESS!!

PEP RALLY

THE 2009 PEP RALLY WILL BE THURSDAY NIGHT 9/10 AT 7:00 PM. ALL PLAYERS AND CHEERLEADERS WILL BE CALLED TO THE FIELD IN UNIFORM. SPECIAL GUESTS INCLUDE THE HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL TEAM AND CHEERLEADERS.

RJF Stimulus Package !!!

Click Here For Early Sign Up Application

To The 2009 Players, Cheerleaders & Families:

RJF realizes things are economically tough out there and will do what they can to help out our families. We are currently offering an opportunity to save money on registration fees:

Sign up in April and pay only $80 - savings of 20%
Sign up in May and pay only $90 - savings of 10%
Sign up in June-July and pay full price of $100

**FLAG & CHEERING (KINDERGARTEN & 1ST GRADE) - $40.00
**MITEY MIGHTS FOOTBALL (7 YEAR OLDS/2ND GRADE)
**PEE WEES FOOTBALL & CHEERING (7-9 YEAR OLDS/2nd-4TH GRADE)
**JUNIORS FOOTBALL & CHEERING (10-11 YEAR OLDS/5TH-6TH GRADE)
**SENIORS FOOTBALL & CHEERING (12-14 YEAR OLDS/7TH-8TH GRADE)

Print & Fill out the attached application and mail with check to:

Rutherford Junior Football
PO Box 272
Rutherford, NJ 07070

Applications can also be picked up at the Rutherford Recreation Dept or printed off our web site www.leaguelineup.com/rjfbulldogs

Thank You,
Rutherford Jr Football


Click on MFL to go to Bergenite article

Former RJF Player Corey Wootton

Former Rutherford Jr Football star gearing up for huge season...
Olin BuchananRivals.com College Football Senior Writer

His upside is high, as is his energy level, his sacks total and the praise he has received for his play.

Yet, somehow, Northwestern senior defensive end Corey Wootton seems to have a low profile outside of the Big Ten.

Corey Wootton is one of the most dominating pass rushers in the country. Ask a fan to put together a list of the nation's premier pass rushers and it surely would include TCU's Jerry Hughes, Arizona State's Dexter Davis, Oklahoma's Jeremy Beal, Texas' Sergio Kindle and even Troy's Brandon Lang. But omitting the 6-foot-7, 270-pound Wootton would be a mistake.

Last season, Wootton had a breakthrough season: 10 sacks, 16 tackles for loss and an interception (one of four in his career). He was the only Northwestern player to receive first-team All-Big Ten honors and was a reason the Wildcats won nine games last season.

"Corey's grown, first and foremost, from a maturity standpoint in the way he goes about preparing for each game," Northwestern coach Pat Fitzgerald said. "Last year, his motor in practice was relentless, and his play on Saturdays was a direct result of the way he practiced. … He has a tremendous motor on top of his fundamentals."

Wootton had such a strong season in '08 that in December, he was contemplating entering the NFL draft. But he suffered a knee injury in the Alamo Bowl loss to Missouri, which shelved any NFL plans. Before the injury, at least one NFL scout projected Wootton possibly going late in the first round. He'd even drawn praise and instruction from former New York Giants All-Pro defensive end Michael Strahan, who lives near Wootton's parents in Rutherford, N.J.

Yet, on a national scale, he's still relatively unknown – and he would like to keep it that way.

"I'm just trying to help my team win," he said. "We're getting more media attention because of the year we had, but you try not to think about it. If you have a low profile, you don't have to worry as much about double-teams. If [opponents] don't know me, I get more one-on-one blocks."

That's going to change. Opposing coaches know about him, and offensive linemen will.

Wootton said he'll be ready for the inevitable double-teams and "chips" from running backs. In fact, he said he's even better than a year ago, ironically, because of the injury.

He was having a strong game against Missouri; he had a sack, three tackles, an interception and generally had caused mayhem before tearing his right ACL in the fourth quarter. He had surgery in mid-January and has been working his way back since.

"Nothing comes easy, especially when you've had a knee injury," he said. "But several people I know have come back from an injury faster and stronger. You focus on things you never did before, like balance."

Improved balance should make him an even better pass rusher.

"You definitely have to be able to stay on your feet, maneuver and cut on one leg," he said. "So it's a key part. I never thought about that in the past."

Few in the past would have thought of Wootton as one of the nation's best defensive players. But any list this season should definitely include Wootton – and up high.



All RJF Cheerleaders & Parents,

If you are in receipt of a handout from the Rutherford Recreation Dept claiming to sponsor or fund a cheer team, please disregard it. The reality of any organization starting a cheer squad with uniforms (vest, skirt, warm up), insurance, pompoms, mats, practice facilities, radio/music & tournament entrance fees, for $100 is absurd. With our Borough taxes increasing & Recreation Dept looking to cut over $30k for budget purposes, it certainly was not thought out properly.

Rutherford Recreation for some odd reason was under the impression that Rutherford Junior Football & Cheering was not going to have their Competition Team and never contacted RJF to substantiate. RJF met with Borough Officials Friday and confirmed that Rutherford Recreation will not be organizing or funding a cheering program.

In fact, the RJF Board and Coaches have been discussing whether to have one or two competition teams for the 2009 season. We are extremely proud of our Cheering accomplishments and will continue to grow our program. Some of our most notable Cheering accomplishments over the years are placing at Walt Disney, Ramapo College, Lyndhurst HS, Hershey Park and Queen of Peace HS.

We are having a RJF General Meeting Wednesday night at 8:00 pm and will discuss our Competition Team/s for 2009. Feel free to attend our meeting and discuss.

RJF Board & Coaches

2009 Opening Day Practice is Monday 8/3


Mites Coach Mike Micek
Pee Wees Coach Mike Paskas
Juniors Coach Manny Medina
Seniors Coach Glen Gardner

Minis Coach Bern Finelli
Pee Wees Coach Jenn Brady
Juniors Coach Leanne Shapiro
Seniors Coach Michelle Mannion

*2009 Sept Schedule*
Sept 7 Labor Day Street Fair
Sept 10 Weigh Ins 5:00 pm RJF Fieldhouse
Sept 10 Pep Rally with RHS 7:00 pm
Sept 11 RHS Varsity Game vs QP 7:00 pm
Sept 12 Opening Game Day vs Lyndhurst 4:00 pm

This Just In - The NY/NJ Giants have invited the 2009 Pee Wees to play at half time of their pre season game vs Carolina Panthers @ 8:00 pm on Monday Aug 17th.

2009 Schedule

Click here for 2009 schedule

Mighty Mite (7's) 2009 Schedule:
Week 1 Away vs Lyndhurst
Week 2 Away vs Hasbrouck Heights
Week 3 Away vs Carl/ER
Week 4 Home vs Ridgefield Park
Week 5 Away vs Lyndhurst
Week 6 Home vs Carl/ER
Week 7 Away vs NA
Week 8 Home vs Hasbrouck Heights
Week 9 Mighty Mite Day Home

RJF Pee Wees Play in Giants Stadium !!!

Click on Giants Logo to go to Pictures !!

Rutherford Junior Football would like to “Thank You” for your help in making our participation in the halftime festivities during the New York Giants vs Carolina Panthers game a success, on Monday night August 17th.

Allowing RJF to use a bus and have a Rutherford Police Officer make sure we made it there safely was a great gesture on the town’s behalf.

Another great help to our organization was the donated time of Department of Public Works employee (Benn O’Hara), who donated his time and skill to driving the bus for RJF.

Thanks Again to the Town of Rutherford, Board of Education, Benn O’Hara, Rutherford Police Dept & Jen Conley of the NY Giants!

2009 RUTHERFORD FOOTBALL PLAYERS & CHEERLEADERS

Good Luck to all 2009 RHS & RJF Football Players & Cheerleaders !!!

Bulldogs Take Two From Bears

The Rutherford Junior Football Mighty Mites (7yr.olds) opened the inaugural season in the Meadowlands Football League vs the Lyndhurst Golden Bears. Rutherford came out on defense first with a quick three and out to set the tone for the game. Linebackers Zach Boubadi, Nick Brady and Axel Ramos worked the field as Defensive ends Derick Micek and Owen Meister maintained containment along with Cornerbacks Niko Tsiolas and Jake Schuman. Chris Avramidis, Josh Glatman and Rostyk Fedorko swarmed the backfield. When Rutherford came out on Offense, it was two handoffs to RB Niko Tsiolas for the first going 5 yards, and then the second for a 40 yd touchdown run. The extra point conversion was unsuccessful making the score 6-0 Rutherford. Rutherford’s defense was maintaining their ground putting Lyndhurst in a 4th and 15 situation. Lyndhurst opted going for it and ran a sweep to the outside and scored a 60 yd TD. The extra point was good, making it 7-6 Lyndhurst. Rutherford’s offense had a hiccup and Lyndhurst got the ball back, they scored again on a long TD run. Rutherford’s offense answered the score yet again with a long TD run from Axel Ramos breaking it out into the open field and running a 55 yard TD. The RJF defense stiffened with Eric Ribadeneyra, Matt Bender, Bob Philp, John Petrosino, Brendan Nestor and Brendan Kelly coming in to help stop Lyndhurst gain any yards. In the 4th quarter the score was 19-12 Lyndhurst. Rutherford had the ball and was starting to march down the field. Offensive End Derek Micek saved the drive when the RB fumbled and Derek recovered the ball. The very next play on 4th and 1, Rutherford RB Niko Tsiolas looked like he was jammed up on the line, but kept his feet moving and instead of not getting the first down, he ran 40 yards for the TD making it 19-18 Rutherford. Lyndhurst was not moving the ball on their next possession with Anthony Doren putting a viscious hit in the backfield. With the clock running out, they broke another long score on 3rd down making it 25-18 Lyndhurst. Rutherford started to march down the field again but the clock was working against them and they ran out of time. It was an exciting first game and the team is looking forward to next week’s game at Hasbrouck Heights. Rutherford’s Pee Wees (8-9 year olds) opened their season with an 18-0 win. The Bulldogs took the opening drive and marched 50 yards to pay dirt. Rich Marquez took a counter and waltzed in from 10 yards out. Omar Abdulhamid’s extra point kick was low. Rutherford’s defense gave up nothing all night and was led by: Bill Finn, Anthony Dubeniczic, Lawson Fischer, Mike DeSteno and Sean Moran. Jacob Munoz returned the following punt 20 yards to the Lyndhurst 25. The half ran out with the Bulldogs attempting to hit TE John Kelly on a slant. The rest of the second half saw Rutherford blast away with Tyler Aponte & Jacob Munoz off right tackle before Marquez kept a QB sweep around the left side. Omar Abdelhamid capped off another drive with a blast left behind the blocking of FB Bill Finn. The RJF Junior’s (10-11 yr olds) also won this weekend, 14-0. The Bulldogs received the opening kick off and started from their own 40yd line. On this wet rainy night the Bulldog offensive line went to work opening running lanes behind the blocking of David Van Winkle, Joseph Mauro, Jesse Madden Thomas Reid, Bryant Gonzalez, Andrew Brito, and Farress Eldeshan. The going was tough but the Bulldogs managed to move the ball down the field behind the running of Mohamed Abdedlhamid, Matt Lambie and Sebastian Medina. After two penalties the Bulldog drive stalled at the Lyndhurst 15yd line. After stopping the Bulldogs, the Lyndhurst Bears came out fired up and started pounding the ball but the Bulldog defense of Nick Birchby, David Van Winkle, Nick Vicente, John McAndrew, Jesse Madden, Thomas Reid, Andrew Brito, Mohamed Abdedlhamid, Matt Lambie, Joseph Mauro and Sebastian Medina held firm and forced a four and out series. The Bulldogs returned to offense on the Lyndhurst 45yd line and once again started the running attack and once again penalties and a tough Lyndhurst defense managed to change the Bulldog’s plans. The Dogs went back to the ground game and were able to drive down to the Lyndhurst 20yd. With a 3rd and 15 looming Nick Birchby took a snap from center dropped back and hit Joseph Mauro for a 20yd TD pass and then after a mad scramble Nick Birchby hit Joseph Mauro for the PAT to make the score Bulldogs 7 Bears 0. The Bulldogs kicked off to start the second half and played tough defense to force another Bears four and out. The second half mirrored the 1st half with the Bulldogs committing four more penalties to help stall their first two drives of the second half. On their third possession the Dogs went back to work and behind the tough play of their offensive line was able to drive the ball down to the Lyndhurst 45yd where once again Birchby connected with a 20yd pass to Joseph Mauro to bring the ball to the Bears 25yd line. The Bulldogs then went back to their ground game were Mohamed Abdedlhamid was able to punch it into the end zone. Matt Lambie followed with PAT to make the score Bulldogs 14 Bears 0. With the defensive help of Dominick Mignone and Gavin Zapata the Bulldogs were able to preserve the win. Rutherford’s Seniors (12-13 yr olds) fell on opening night. Justin Speccavento and DJ Munoz fought gallantly for four quarters but were not able to stand up to the Bears. Rutherford is in Saddle Brook next week on Saturday afternoon, while the Mighty Mites take on Hasbrouck Heights.

Bulldogs Hammer Out Two Wins over Saddle Brook!!

Rutherford Junior Football has two teams in first place after the second week of the season. The Pee Wees (8-9 year olds) are 2-0 after beating the Saddle Brook Falcons by a score of 19-6. The Pee Wees got on the board on the opening drive with QB Rich Marques diving over the goal line, behind the blocking of C Nick Ippolito, OG Mike DeSteno and OG Rich Doren. FB Bill Finn then took a reverse in for the extra point giving Rutherford a 7-0 lead in the first quarter. RJF scored again after blasting off tackle repeatedly behind Tackles Lawson Fischer and Anthony Dubenczic, until RB Omar Abdelhamid broke loose and rambled in from 6 yards out. Halftime had the Bulldogs ahead 13-6. The second half saw the Dogs stingy defense hold the Falcons to minus yardage. They were led by: LB John Kelly, DE Sean Moran, LB Tyler Aponte, LB Connor Cahill, CB Jacob Munoz, NG Eric Wernicki & NG Regan Landrigan. Once the Bulldogs got the ball back on the Saddle Brook 30, Marques scooted in again on a QB counter blast behind OT Sebastian Gaeta and TE Joe Fisicaro. The Pee Wees became stronger as the game progressed with John Kelly and Tyler Aponte having the “Hits of the Game.” The Pee Wee JV team will be playing home against SB and will be led by OT Dino DeFrancisco, FB Justin Finelli, OG Greg Keller, TE Matt Birchby, OT Liam Lynch, TE Bryan Hennessey, RB Shawn Robin, OG Chris Brady, C Jack Melfa and TE Donald Bagnoulo. The Junior Bulldogs (10-11 year olds) started the game on defense. They held the Falcon’s 1st drive to 4 downs and out. After a Falcon punt the Bulldogs started to work from their own 40yd line. The Bulldog offensive line went to work opening running lanes behind the blocking of David Van Winkle, Joseph Mauro, Jesse Madden, Thomas Reid, Logan Gardner, Andrew Brito, and Julian Alvarez. The going was tough but the Bulldogs managed to move the ball down the field behind the running of Mohamed Abdedlhamid, Matt Lambie and Sebastian Medina. The Bulldogs managed to take the ball down to the Falcon 20yd line were the Falcon defense forced a fumble and recovered the ball. Once again the Bulldog defense went to work and behind the aggressive defensive line play of David Cassanova, Brandon Sarnowsky, Logan Gardner, Jesse Madden, David Van Winkle and Julian Alvarez were able to force Saddle brook into a punt. After a bad snap on the Saddle Brook side, the Bulldogs started their offense on the Falcon 45yd line. The Bulldogs were marching toward the Falcon end zone when the clock ran out and the first half ended Bulldogs 0 Falcons 0. In the 3rd qtr the Falcons went to the air and tried to hit what they thought was a wide open slot when Sebastian Medina jumped in front of the pass and intercepted the ball running it back to the Falcon 40yd line. The Bulldogs drove the ball down to the Falcon 17yd line where with 1:14 left. After running the ball twice and with 49 seconds left on the clock and the ball at the Falcon 9 facing a 3rd and 2 the Bulldogs went to the air. QB Nicholas Birchby calmly hit a wide open Thomas Reid for the 1st score of the game. The PAT was no good to make the score Bulldogs 6 Falcons 0 with 36 seconds left to play. The Bulldogs kicked to the Falcons and once again relied on their defense to preserve the win. The Bulldog defense did not disappoint and responded with two stops in the backfield and a QB sack by a host of Bulldogs to end the game Bulldogs 6 Falcons 0. Rutherford Junior Football will be home this Saturday against the Harrison Blue Tide. The RJF games will follow the RHS Varsity Football Homecoming game against River Dell at 1:00 pm at Tryon Field. The RJF Mighty Mites (7yr olds) traveled to Hasbrouck Heights in week 2. On the first play of the game, Rutherford running back Axel Ramos took the hand off and ran 60 yards for the score. The blocking of Owen Meister Virgil Minnick and Josh Glatman on the left side of the line allowed him to break through. On defense, Rutherford held Heights and forced them to punt. Linebackers Zach Boubadi, Chris Avramidis and Axel Ramos controlled the middle as Defensive Ends Derek Micek and Owen Meister along with Cornerbacks Niko Tsiolas and Anthony Doren kept containment. On the following drive, Rutherford was unable to move the ball as the Heights defense stiffened. Hasbrouck Heights scored once in the first half and at halftime led the game with a score of 7-6. The second half was back and forth with neither team being able to move the ball with consistency. Hasbrouck Heights were able to put a solid drive together and scored in the beginning of the fourth quarter making the score 13-6 Heights.With the clock running, Rutherford was at a 4th and 10 situation and QB Zach Boubadi ran a sweep to the outside but was forced out of bounds after gaining 9 1/2 yards. Heights then took over with 30 seconds left and ran a sweep to the outside and scoring as the clock ran out making the final score 19-6 Hasbrouck Heights. The RJF Mighty Mites travel to East Rutherford in week 3 to face the Wildcats.

RJF PW 19-0 over Saddle Brook
RJF JR 6-0 over Saddle Brook
RJF SR lose 12-26 to Saddle Brook

2009/10 NEW HELMETS FUND

Click here to get info on New Helmet Fund
Kenneth Porro,Esq, Passaic PBA, Pino’s Grill, The Avramidis Family,
Richard & Maureen Doren, Passaic Check Cashing Service,
The Village Gourmet, Mignon Steakhouse, Taos Wok & Restaurant,
Tina Louise, Info Cop, Peek-A-Boo Child Development Center, Michaels Salumeria, Smith/Sondy Paving Cunningham Construction, Alex Perez, Catanzaro Demolition Services, Swish Bar & Grill, Mettler Mechanical, Senator Paul Sarlo, Port Authority of NY/NJ, Lexus of Queens-Mr. Ken Wortel, Joseph M. Sanzari, Inc., Guzzo & Guzzo Architects, LLC Apolo Taxi Service, Caroline Lilore, Joseph DeSalvo & Family, Village Shoes Kinloch Partners, Inc.

RJF Pee Wees Remain Undefeated !!

The Rutherford Junior Football Mighty-Mites (7yr.olds) traveled to East Rutherford on Saturday to face the Wildcats. Rutherford started the game on offense and put a nice drive together. They were consistently gaining 5 yards a play with the running of Niko Tsiolas, Axel Ramos, Jake Schuman, Rostyk Fedorco and Zach Boubadi. Rutherford had the ball the entire first quarter as the O-line of Owen Meister, Virgil Minnick, Josh Glatman, Nick Brady, Eric Ribadeneyra, Chris Avramidis and Derek Micek were able to keep the drive going. Unfortunately, after putting together a nice drive, a fumble by the Bulldogs was recovered by the Wildcats that ended the drive. When the Bulldog defense came out, they were not willing to give up many yards. East Rutherford moved the ball a little at a time as Linebackers Boubadi and Ramos kept the middle under control and Cornerbacks Anthony Doren and Niko Tsiolas would not let anyone outside. Defensive Tackles Matt Bender, Brendan Nestor, John Petrosino and Matt Severino kept the pressure in the backfield. Safeties Brendan Kelly and Bob Philp stopped the Wildcats RB from scoring as he came up and stopped him ending the first half. As the second half started, it was back and forth again as both teams played in between the 30 yard lines. The Bulldogs defense played outstanding throughout the game as they recovered two fumbles and a third when the Wildcats had the ball late in the fourth quarter. On the final drive of the game, QB Zach Boubdi ran a sweep to the left to get the first down, but a penalty nullified the gain, ending the game at a tie 0-0. The Mighty-Mites will play home for the first time this season on Saturday vs. Ridgefield Park.

The Rutherfrod Pee Wees (8-9's) bettered their record by beating Harrison 26-0. The Little Bulldogs opened the game with one of the team Captains (Jacob Munoz) returning the opening kickoff 55 yards for a touchdown. Don Bagnoulo snapped to holder Rich Marques successfully, but Regan Landrigan's kick was a little short for the 2-pt conversion. Rutherford then went on defense and linebackers Connor Cahill, Omar Abdelhamid and John Kelly blew up the Blue Tide running game. After taking over on downs, the Dogs drove down field before Bill Finn rambled in from 5 yards out for the Bulldog's second score. In the second quarter Rutherford had another successful drive which culminated in a Tyler Aponte blast off right tackle. The first half saw the Rutherford offensive line control the game: John Kelly, Sebastian Gaeta, Rich Doren, Nick Ippolito, Mike DeSteno, Anthony Dubenczic, Jack Melfa and Joe Fisicaro. The halftime score was 18-0 in favor of Rutherford. The second half saw the Bulldogs put up one more score when quarterback marques swept around end from 20 yards out. The fourth quarter saw the JV squad preserve the shutout and have a touchdown called back. Cahill broke loose from 35 yards out after a Sean Moran handoff and behind the lead blocks of Justin Finelli, Shawn Robin and Landrigan, before being called back for a holding call. The fourth quarter offensive line encompassed: Liam Lynch, Greg Keller, Dino DeFransisco, Chris Brady, Bryan Hennessey, Eric Wernicki and Matt Birchby. Rutherford will face its stiffest challenge when they take on the undefeated Ridgefield Park Scarlet Pee Wees this Saturday at 5:30 pm.

The Rutherford Juniors took on the Harrison Blue tide this weekend. Both teams were looking to take command of the Southern Division with a win. The Blue Tide received the opening kickoff and immediately got on the board with a long TD run. They converted the PAT to make it 7-0. The Bulldogs took the kickoff and drove down to the Blue tide 30 before their drive stalled. The Blue Tide once again went back to work but were stopped. The Bulldogs once again started driving but penalties and untimely mistakes stalled yet another drive. The Blue Tide took the ball at their 40yd line and in one play made the score Blue Tide 13 Bulldogs 0. The Bulldogs took the ensuing kickoff and marched it downfield. The drive was kept alive by a key pass from Nick Birchby to Joseph Mauro. The Bulldogs were on the Harrison 10yd line when Matt Lambie took a handoff and rumbled into the end zone. Nick Birchby called a pass audible on the PAT and connected with Sebastian Medina to make the score Harrison 13 Bulldogs 7 at the half. In the 3rd qtr the Bulldogs moved the ball and got as far as the Harrison 10yd line but where unable to capitalize because of penalties. Once again Harrison capitalized and broke a long run to make the score Harrison 20 Bulldogs 7. Rutherford marched the ball down the field in the 4th qtr with the accurate passing of Nick birchby who connected with Thomas Reid on three different pass plays. One to keep the drive going and the other two to bring the ball down to the Blue Tide 3yd line. Matt Lambie once again took the handoff and juanted in to make the final score Harrison 20 Bulldogs 13.

Bulldogs Roll Scarlets

The Rutherford Junior Football organization earned three wins Saturday night out of four games versus the Ridgefield Park Scarlets. The RJF Mighty-Mites (7yr. olds) played their first home game this year. R.P won the coin toss and elected to receive. Ridgefield Park moved the ball a few yards and then broke a long run on a reverse up the middle for the score. After missing the extra point, the score was 6-0 R.P. Rutherford seemed out of rhythm on offense and had to punt. The Scarlets then took advantage and broke another long run around the right edge for the score and after another unsuccessful extra point, the score was 12-0 R.P. The next possession, the Bulldogs woke up. QB Zach Bouabidi handed off to running backs Niko Tsiolas, Axel Ramos, Jake Schuman and started putting a drive together. Axel Ramos then broke a long run off tackle running in for the score from 50 yards out. Jake Schuman took the rock up the middle for the extra point. The half ended with the score 12-7 Ridgefield Park. The second half opened with Rutherford having possession. This time, the offensive line was determined to push down the field. Rutherford kept a fresh rotation of offensive linemen with Owen Meister, Nick Brady, Virgil Minnick, Mike Davies, John Petrosino, Chris Avramidis, Brendan Nestor, Derek Micek, Eric Ribadeneyra, Matt Bender, Matt Severino and Josh Glatman. They all helped the Bulldogs start marching down field. The O-line determination helped Axel Ramos break another long run off tackle for his second T.D of the day. Jake Schuman again took it up the middle for the extra point making the score 14-12 Rutherford. With the start of the fourth quarter, the Bulldogs defense was also determined to keep the lead. They maintained their containment and numerous backfield tackles were made by Brendan Nestor, Virgil Minnick, Matt Bender and Rostyk Fedorko. Cornerbacks Niko Tsiolas and Anthony Doren both made huge tackles as the R.P. backs tried getting outside. Safeties Brendon Kelly and Bob Phip also kept solid run support for the defense. On 4th and 2, RP decided to punt and gave Rutherford possession. Trying to play the clock, the Bulldogs goal was to get first downs and eat time. Running Back Axel Ramos was not done for the day though as he broke another long run off tackle for his third TD of the game. With the extra point unsuccessful this time, the score was 20-12 Rutherford, late in the 4th quarter. The Scarlets were not going to give up. They started chipping away at the yards consistently gaining 4 yds a carry. Then, their back broke a long run scoring a T.D. with 20 seconds left on the clock. Rutherfords 'D' held strong at the goal line and denied them the extra point with Safety Bob Philp coming in the middle hard and making the tackle. Time ended, and the Bulldogs walked away with a 20-18 hard fought win. The Pee Wees (8-9 year olds) answered the bell against the once undefeated Scarlets (3-1), beating them 19-0. The win puts Rutherford atop the Southern Division standings, awaiting their showdown with the Carlstadt/ER Wildcats. The Bulldogs (4-0) relied on RB Omar Abdelhamid, who scored three times behind the blocking of John Kelly, Lawson Fischer, Rich Doren, Sebastian Gaeta, Nick Ippolito, Mike DeSteno, Anthony Dubenezic and Joe Fisicaro. The Dogs pounded the ball off tackle several times before blocking backs Bill Finn, Jacob Munoz & Tyler Aponte sprung Abdelhamid for a 10 yard TD run with 30 seconds left in the first half. Quarterback Rich Marques kept a counter and scrambled in for the extra point, giving RJF the halftime lead of 7-0. The second half opened with Regan Landrigan onsiding and Abdelhamid recovering. The little Bulldogs went back to work and marched down field again using a reverse, in which Kelly took to the one yard line. From here, Omar punched it in again. Rutherford’s final score of the evening was a repeat of the first two, forcing the game to a JV match, because of the fourth quarter 18 point rule. The Pee Wee defense was lighting people up all game, forcing a Marques interception and two fumble recoveries. The defense allowed two first downs all game. Defensively, the Dogs were led by DB’s Munoz and Marques, LB’s Connor Cahill, Abdelhamid, Kelly & Aponte and DE’s Sean Moran & Finn. The Rutherford Juniors took on the Ridgefield Park Scarlets this weekend. Both teams were looking to rebound from the previous weeks loss. The Scarlet's received the opening kickoff and marched the ball down to the Bulldog 40yd line before giving it up on downs. The Bulldogs took over on their own 40yd line and started marching the ball behind the gaping holes created by the offensive line play of Thomas Reid, David Van Winkle, Brandon Sarnowski, David Cassanova, Jesse Madden, Julian Alvarez and John McAndrew. The Bulldogs were gaining big yardage behind the running of Mohamed Abdelhamid, Matt Lambie and Sebastian Medina. After two Bulldog 1st downs, Matt Lambie took a hand off and raced into the end zone for a 30yd TD run. The PAT conversion was good when QB Nick Birchby hit Sebastian Medina to make the score Bulldogs 7 Scarlet's 0. The second qtr saw the Scarlet's mount another offensive drive and take the ball down to their own 47yd line where on a 3rd and 3 they chose to pass and Sebastian Medina came up with a big interception on the Bulldog 40yd line. The Bulldogs took possession and after a couple of runs quickly went back to the air with QB Nick Birchby hitting Matt Lambie with two quick passes for a total of 21yds. The Bulldogs then called on John McAndrew who Nick Birchby calmly hit for a for a 33yd TD pass. The PAT was no good leaving the score Bulldogs 13 Scarlets 0 going into halftime. The start of the 3rd qtr saw the Bulldogs run the ball effectively before choosing to once again go to the air and gain huge chunks of yardage behind a 16yd catch by John McAndrew and two catches by Thomas Reid totaling another 30yds. With the ball on the Scarlet's 14yd line Matt Lambie took the handoff and burst thru the line for his second score of the night. The PAT was no good. Bulldogs 19 Scarlets 0. The Scarlet players had no intentions of calling it quits and after recovering the kickoff on their own 40yd line they broke a long run down to the Bulldog two yd line where after 3 tries, they were able to punch it in and make the score Bulldogs 19 Scarlet Knights 7. Rutherford starting from their own 40yd line, had Mohamed Abdelhamid take the handoff and burst thru the line and down the sideline for a 60yd TD run. Sebastian Medina converted the PAT to make the score Bulldogs 26 Scarlets 7. With key players hurt and various players playing out of position the Bulldog defense held tough behind the defensive efforts of Andrew Brito, Julian Alvarez, Brandon Sarnowski, David Cassanova, Jesse Madden, Nick Birchby, Thomas Reid, Mohamed AbdelHamid, David Van Winkle, Matt Lambie, Sebastian Medina, Domenic Mignone, Nick Vicente, Gavin Zapata and John McAndrew. The Rutherford Seniors (7-8th graders) jumped out to an early lead of 7-0, but could not hold on. The Seniors have improved every week and scored twice throwing the ball. Rutherford Jr Football and Cheering will be on the road next week, visiting the Wallington Panthers Saturday at 5:30 pm. Our RJF competition Cheering teams will be hosting an Atlantic City bus trip fund raiser, if interested please contact Mrs Jordan at (201)522-5508 & go to our RJF website for updates www.leaguelineup.com/rjfbulldogs.

Junior Boys

Junior Cheerleaders

Mighty Mites

Mini Cheerleaders

Pee Wee Boys

Pee Wee Cheerleaders

Senior Boys

Senior Cheerleaders

Bulldogs Take Two From Panthers

The RJF Mighty-Mites (7 yr. old) were on the road again traveling to Lyndhurst for the second time this season. Rutherford opened up the game on offense and were determined to score. A constant rotation of fresh linemen allowed the Bulldogs to establish a solid opening drive. Linemen Owen Meister, Virgil Minnick, Josh Glatman, Nick Brady, Chris Avramidis, Brendan Nestor, Derek Micek, John Petrosino, Matthew Bender and Matt Severino pushed hard and were able to open running lanes. Running Backs Axel Ramos, Jake Schuman, Niko Tsiolas, Anthony Doren and Rostyk Fedorko blasted through the holes as QB Zach Bouabidi handed the ball off. On a 3rd and 3 situation, Bouabidi rolled out to his right and threw a nice completion to Niko Tsiolas for a first down. The very next play, RB Axel Ramos broke free on a run off the left tackle and scampered 50 yards for the touchdown. With the PAT unsuccessful, the Bulldogs led 6-0 at the end of the first quarter. When Bulldogs defense took the field, it was obvious that they had no intentions on giving up any yards. Defensive linemen Nick Brady, Virgil Minnick, Brendan Nestor, Josh Glatman, Chris Avramidis, Matt Severino and Matthew Bender wreaked havoc in the Lyndhurst backfield with numerous tackles causing negative yardage. Defensive ends Owen Meister and Derek Micek contained the backs as Corners Niko Tsiolas, Anthony Doren and safeties Jake Schuman, Brendan Kelly and Rob Philp played excellent run support. DE Owen Meister had a huge game with numerous backfield tackles. Linebackers Bouabidi and Rose made sure the middle was secure and allowed no runs up the middle. At the beginning of the half with the score still 6-0, the Bulldogs defense again stifled the Golden Bears offense. When the 'Dogs offense came back onto the field, they again started to produce a solid drive. Running Back Niko Tsiolas ran off tackle twice for a gain of 35 yards. On the next play, he took the pigskin again and continued rumbling through defenders and literally ran some over on his w ay into the end zone. With Jake Schuman diving in for the extra point, the score was now 13-0 in the middle of the 4th quarter. Rutherford’s defense stood strong again and did not allow Lyndhurst to move the ball. The Bulldogs took over on downs and ran the clock out with a final score of 13-0 Rutherford. The Rutherford Pee Wee Bulldogs (8-9 year olds) did what was expected of them, by beating the Wallington Panthers and setting up the Southern Division undefeated show down with East Rutherford/Carlstadt this week. Rutherford (5-0) won this week’s match up 30-7, scoring five touchdowns out of seven offensive possessions. Their first score came on an Omar AbdelHamid blast behind John Kelly, Lawson Fischer and Rich Doren. Omar rumbled in from 25 yards out and the extra point attempt was short when center Donald Bagnuolo successfully snapped to holder Rich Marques and kicker Regan Landrigan booted it. On Rutherford's next possession, Marques hit Omar with a screen pass and lead blocker Jacob Munoz sprung him for a 50 yard touchdown. The Bulldogs third score of the first half came on a Marques sweep from about 15 yards out. Offensive linemen Anthony Dubenezic, Nick Ippolitto, Mike DeSteno and Joe Fischer sealed the right side. Tyler Aponte and Bill Finn were lead blockers on all blast plays. The halftime score had the little Bulldogs ahead 24-7. Rutherford opened the second half with a long drive down to the Wallington 10 on an Aponte 40 yard scamper, but lost the ball on the next play because of a fumble. Upon getting the ball back, Marques hit Kelly on an out pattern and Kelly galloped into the end zone untouched for a 20 yard touchdown reception. Rutherford's final possession saw Sean Moran bootleg right and bolt down the sideline for a 45 yard touchdown run. Rutherford hosts East Rutherford/Carlstadt Wildcats this weekend home at Tryon field. The first game will have the Mighty Mites (7 year olds) open the four game evening. The Rutherford Juniors (10-11 year olds) were up next and the Wallington Junior Panthers were looking to get into the win column and played with tremendous energy. The Bulldogs kicked off and were forced to play tough defense by a panther team that methodically marched the ball down the field on them. The Panthers held the ball the entire 1st qtr but couldn't punch it into the end zone. The Bulldogs finally got the ball in the second qtr and drove the ball down the field behind the running of Mohamed Abdelhamid, Matt Lambie and Sebastian Medina. Their job was made easier by the offensive line play of Thomas Reid, David VanWinkle, Brandon Sarnowsky, David Cassanova, Jesse Madden, Julian Alvarez and John McAndrew. The Bulldogs were gaining big yardage but with a fast clock they seemed pressed for time. QB Nick Birchby took control and hit Matt Lambie for a 12 yd gain then hit Thomas Reid for another 16yd gain, which took the ball down to the 3yd line. Matt Lambie took a hand off and blasted into the end zone for a 3yd TD run. The PAT conversion was good when QB Nick Birchby hit john McAndrew to make the score Bulldogs 7 Panthers 0. The rest of the second qtr seemed like a blur. The halftime score was Bulldogs 7 Panthers 0. In the 3rd qtr the Bulldogs received the ball and started driving when the Panther defense forced a fumble and recovery giving them the ball at the Bulldog 35yd line. The Panthers were able to capitalize on the turnover by driving down 35yds for the TD. The PAT was no good making the score Bulldogs 7 Panthers 6. The Bulldogs took the ensuing kickoff and started driving down the field gaining huge yardage. The Bulldog drive started stalling when Nick Birchby hit Thomas Reid for a 25yd TD pass. Matt Lambie converted the PAT to make the score Bulldogs 14 Panthers 6 at the end of the 3rd qtr. The 4th quarter saw good defensive play from both teams. The Bulldog defense of Andrew Brito, Julian Alvarez, Brandon Sarnowsky, David Cassanova, Jesse Madden, Nick Birchby, Thomas Reid, Mohamed Abdedelhamid, David VanWinkle, Matt Lambie, Sebastian Medina, Domenic Mignone, Nick Vicente, Gavin Zapata and John McAndrew was strong enough to preserve the win. The final score was Bulldogs 14 Panthers 6. Rutherford’s Seniors opened their game with touchdown pass but couldn’t preserve the lead and fell to the Wallington Seniors. The Rutherford contingent played this weekend in their new Riddell Revolution helmets. Mr Rich Doren sponsored a fundraiser that enabled the whole RJF program to be outfitted with the new helmets.

Dogs Nip Cats in OT !!!

Rutherford takes two out of three games against the Wildcats and won the battle of undefeated Pee Wee teams. Wins by the Pee Wee’s and Juniors gives RJF the opportunity to win the division with only two weeks left in the regular season. The Rutherford Junior Football Bulldogs opened the evening with the Mighty-Mites (7 year olds) playing the East Rutherford/Carlstadt Wildcats for the second time this season. Rutherford won the coin toss and elected to start on offense. With the constant rotation of fresh players every play, the Bulldogs started to march down the field. Linemen Owen Meister, Virgil Minnick, Josh Glatman, Nick Brady, Brendon Nestor, Chris Avramidis, Derek Micek, Matthew Severino, Matthew Bender, John Petrosino and Mike Davies kept rotating with fresh legs and were able to open running lanes. QB Zach Bouabidi ran the offense like a clock as he handed the ball off to the rotation of running backs Niko Tsiolas, Anthony Doren, Jake Schuman, Rostyk Fedorko and Axel Ramos. A run by Axel Ramos off the left tackle broke him free for the first score of the game. With the PAT unsuccessful, the Bulldogs led 6-0. The 'Dogs drive ate the entire first quarter with the Wildcats not coming out on offense. At the start of the 2nd quarter, the defensive line of Derek Micek, Chris Avramidis, Virgil Minnick, Nick Brady, Brendon Nestor and Owen Meister penetrated on every play. Backers Tsiolas, Bouabidi, Ramos, Doren, Schuman, Kelly and Phelp filled the gaps and forced the Wildcats to punt after three plays. The offense continued their ways starting a nice drive towards the end zone. At the Wildcats 7 yard line, the Bulldogs saw that they were concerned with the outside run and handed the ball off to Jake Schuman right up the middle for the second score. The PAT was unsuccessful again and the Mites led 12-0 at halftime. At the start of the second half, the 'Cats were being stopped again by the Bulldogs defense. On a 3rd and 12, the Wildcats handed the ball off and after what seemed a long time with the RB being wrapped up, he broke free and scampered for the end zone. Now with the score 12-6, the Bulldogs had the Wildcats on a 4th and 15 situation. The RB was tackled in the backfield on what seemed would end the game but an unfortunate face mask call gave them a first down at the Bulldogs 5 yd line. The Wildcats scored on the next play but were stopped on the extra point making the score 12-12. The Bulldogs were only able to run two plays with 11 seconds left on the clock and the game ended with the tie. The RJF Pee Wees (8-9 year olds) continued their winning ways, by out pointing the Wildcats 19-18 in overtime. Rutherford (6-0) went into halftime down 6-0 but came out in the second half a different team scoring twice. The Bulldogs had a 50 yard Rich Marques touchdown run called back in the first half on a penalty. The little Bulldogs went to their ground and pound game plan and Omar Abdelhamid just bullied his way downfield. The offensive line took over in the second half by controlling the line of scrimmage and collapsing the Wildcats rush: Joe Fisicaro, John Kelly, Lawson Fisher, Rich Doren, Nick Ippolitto, Mike DeSteno and Anthony Dubeniczic. Omar scored all three touchdowns and the extra point in OT to give the undefeated Bulldogs a great shot at the top spot in the Southern Division. Rutherford’s running backs Tyler Aponte, Jacob Munoz and Billy Finn turned in on in the fourth quarter, blasting away with great lead blocking. The RJF Junior’s (10-11 year olds) won 13-8 and were led by the ground attack. The first couple of series were unmemorable by both teams with the Bulldogs fumbling but getting the ball back when Mohamed Abdelhamid intercepted a Wildcat pass. The Bulldogs followed that with an interception of their own. The Wildcats who came ready for a slugfest got on the board when they broke it off tackle and ran for a 25yd TD run. They kicked the extra point thru to make the score Wildcats 8 Bulldogs 0. The Bulldogs spent the rest of the half trying to get them composed and holding the Wildcats offense to the one score. At halftime the Wildcats 8 Bulldogs 0. In the 3rd qtr the Bulldogs came alive and after some aggressive defensive play got the ball back when Sebastian Medina intercepted another Wildcat pass and ran it back 20yds to the Wildcat 49. On a 3rd a 4 play, QB Nick Birchby dropped back and hit Tom Reid in stride with a 30yd pass. Reid turned on the afterburners and cruised the additional 13yds into the end zone. The PAT was no good Wildcats 8 Bulldogs 6. The rest of the 3rd qtr was more physical defensive play from both teams. In the start of the 4th the Wildcats were driving and had the ball at the Bulldogs 40yd line when the Bulldog defense stiffened and got the ball back after holding the Wildcats on a 4th and 2. The Bulldogs knew that time was running out and with less than 6 minutes to play started their march. The Bulldogs offensive line would respond and behind the offensive line blocking of David Van Winkle, Jesse Madden, Thomas Reid, Logan Gardner, David Cassanova, Andrew Brito, Brian Gonzalez and Julian Alvarez would start sealing the blitzing Wildcats. The running attack also responded the running/blocking of Matt Lambie, Mohamed AbdelHamid and Sebastian Medina. The Bulldogs drove the ball down to the Wildcat 3yd line, where with 1:14 left, the Bulldogs Mohamed Adelhamid blasted thru for a 3yd TD run giving the Bulldogs their first lead of the game.. Mohamed Adelhamid also converted the PAT to make the score Bulldogs 13 Wildcats 8. With 1 minute to play the Bulldogs kicked off to the Wildcats and once again the Bulldogs relied on their defense to preserve the win. The Bulldog defense did not disappoint and responded with two stops in the backfield and an interception by Matt Lambie to seal the win. Final Bulldogs 13 Wildcats 8. Rutherford’s Seniors (12-13 year olds) took another one on the chin but played hard up to the last play. Rutherford is away next week in North Arlington on Saturday night. The Pee Wees can lock up the Southern Division Championship with a win, while the Juniors (10-11 year olds) will be playing an undefeated NA squad for first place in their division.


RJF Might Mites Tie 12-12
RJF Pee Wees Win 19-18
RJF Juniors Win 12-8
RJF Seniors Lose 0-27

2009 MFL Southern Champions

Click on MFL Symbol to go to Newspaper Article:

The Rutherford Junior Football Mighty-Mites (7yr olds) traveled to North Arlington to battle the Vikings. Heavy rains caused the field to be a giant mud pit and the Bulldogs were excited to play in it. The Vikings won the coin toss and opted to defer. On the first play from scrimmage the offensive line of Owen Meister, Virgil Minnick, Josh Glatman, Nick Brady, Chris Avramidis, Brendon Nestor and Derek Micek made sure the running hole was big enough for running backs Niko Tsiolas, Jale Schuman and Axel Ramos. Ramos ran off the left tackle and worked his way through the mud for a 60 yard touchdown. After the PAT was unsuccessful, the 'Dogs defense came out onto the field. A constant fresh rotation of players has been the plan for the Bulldogs this year and it proved to work again as the entire Bulldog team would rotate in. The defense forced a punt after three downs with not allowing the Vikings to advance the ball. A fresh rotation on offense also proved to be successful as Matt Bender, Matt Severino, John Petrosino, Rob Philp, Brendan Kelly and Mike Davies helped push the dogs down field. Another handoff from QB Bouabidi to Ramos for 45 yards this time made the score 12-0 at halftime. The second half N.A. came out determined and started to put a nice offensive drive together. On the 12 yard line, the Bulldogs defense made a stand and after four tries denied the Vikings to get any points on the board. When the Bulldogs took over on downs, it was two different backs that helped the 'Dogs move the ball. RB Anthony Doren took the handoff and ran 30 yards off the right tackle that took the Dogs out of the shadow of their own end zone. On the next play, Owen Meister swept to the left stiff arming his way down field for 30 yards before being forced out of bounds. With time running out, the Mighty-Mites posted their second shutout of the season with a final of 12-0. The Rutherford Pee Wee Bulldogs (7-0) clinched the Meadowlands Football League Southern Division Championship with their 41-0 win over the North Arlington Pee Wee Vikings. The game was played in less than favorable conditions turning out to be a mud bowl, before the highly anticipated Junior (10-11 year olds) & Senior (12-13 year olds) games were postponed. The Pee Wees (8-9 year olds) opened the night on defense and took over on offense after holding NA to a four and out. On the first play from scrimmage, Omar Abdelhamid took a handoff and rumbled in from 30 yards out. The Bulldogs converted their extra point when QB Rich Marques handed off to RB Jacob Munoz and he crossed the goal line untouched. Rutherford’s next score was a Tyler Aponte blast play to the right side from 5 yards out. After recovering a muffed kick, the little Dogs went to work again on offense. This time, FB Bill Finn took a 30 dive the distance for Rutherford’s third score and 21-0 lead. Rutherford’s defensive held NA to negative yards and got the ball back one more time before halftime, with one minute left. Marques faked a blast to Omar and handed off to John Kelly for an end around that went for 35 yards and a touchdown. Rutherford converted the extra point when Marques hit TE Joe Fisicaro on a five yard drag pattern, making the halftime score 28-0. The second half opened with Omar returning the kickoff 60 yards for a touchdown and Regan Landrigan taking a Sean Moran handoff for the extra point. The third and fourth quarters saw two more scores behind the running of Shawn Robin, Landrigan, Moran, Connor Cahill and Jusitin Finelli. The rest of the 2009 Southern Division Champions are as follows: Brian Hennessey, Jack Melfa, Eric Wernicki, Nick Ippolito, Greg Keller, Rich Doren, Chris Brady, Mike DeSteno, Anthony Dubeneczic, Lawson Fischer, Don Bagnuolo, Sebastian Gaeta, Liam Lynch, Matt Birchby, Dino DeFransisco, Coaches Bob Cahill, Rich Gaeta, Mike Paskas, Joe Fisicaro, Anthony Finelli and Keith Birchby. The Juniors and Seniors will make up their game during the week in NA. Next week, Rutherford is home on Saturday night, hosting Hasbrouck Heights. RJF will honor their 8th graders with a flower ceremony, in which the departing Cheerleaders & Players accompanied by their parents, will be called to midfield. RJF will also host the 2009 Mighty Mite day in which four games will be played among the eight active Meadowlands Football League seven year old squads. Please support RJF and check out our website for updated information: www.leaguelineup.com/rjfbulldogs.


Front row: Hennessey, Melfa, Capt Munoz, Capt Finn, Capt Abdelhamid, Capt Aponte, Capt Marques, Kelly, Cahill. Second Row: Finelli, Wernicki, Robin, Ippolito, Keller, Doren, Landrigan, Brady, Moran, DeSteno. Standing: Coach Finelli, Dubenczic, Fisicaro, Fischer, Bagnuolo, Gaeta, Lynch, Birchby, DeFransisco, Coach Cahill. Back Row: Coach Gaeta, Coach Paskas, Coach Fisicaro, Coach Birchby

Bulldogs Going To The Playoffs !!!

The regular season has ended for the Meadowlands Football League and Rutherford has three of its four teams in the 2009 MFL Playoffs. The Rutherford Mighty Mites (7 year olds) will be playing Ridgefield Park on Mighty Mite Day. Rutherford will be hosting the first MFL Mighty Mite Day, in which the eight MFL (7 year old) teams will play each other, starting at 12:00 pm. There is a $1.00 admission and the four games will start with Hasbrouck Heights vs Carl/ER at noon, Rutherford vs Ridgefield Park at 1:00 pm, Lyndhurst vs WoodRidge at 2:00 pm and Elmwood Park vs North Arlington at 4:00 pm. Trophies and hot dogs will be supplied to all players. The RJF Pee Wees (8-9 year olds) finished the regular season undefeated at 8-0 and will have the top seed in the playoffs. The Bulldogs (8-0) will open up with the Wallington Panthers (4-4) at 5:30 pm in Harrison on Saturday night. This past weekend saw the little Dogs beat Hasbrouck Heights (6-2) 24-6. The game opened with Richie Marquez running a QB Counter for 35 yards behind lead blocker Tyler Aponte. On Rutherford’s next possession, Omar Abdelhamid broke loose from 50 yards out, making the score 12-0. With 2 minutes left in the half, the HH Aviators tried to run a sweep and the pitch got away from the tailback. The ball bounced off several HH and Rutherford players before DT Regan Landrigan scooped it up and bolted to the end zone for Rutherford’s third score of the half. The second half saw the ground and pound game with Jacob Munoz leading the way by getting his name called eight consecutive times. RB Munoz powered his way down field before capping the drive off with a blast behind FB Bill Finn for the score. The Rutherford offensive line controlled the pace of the game and was led by: Lawson Fischer, John Kelly, Rich Doren, Nick Ippolito, Mike DeSteno, Anthony Dubenezic and Joe Fisicaro. The JV squad closed out the game, winning 24-6. The Rutherford Juniors (10-11 year olds) took on the Hasbrouck Heights Aviators and dropped a close one, 7-0. The Aviators got on the board first when after a bruising 1st qtr they were able to score on a long pass to take a 7-0 lead. That would also be the halftime score. The 3rd quarter saw both teams struggle with the pouring rain and their respective defenses. The 4th quarter was another defensive battle with neither team managing to get anything going. After several fumbles back and forth, the game would end with the score Aviators 7 Bulldogs 0. The Rutherford Juniors (5-3) will play the Harrison Juniors (5-3) in the first round of the playoffs, on Saturday night in Harrison after the PW game. This past weekend, the RJF program held their Annual Eighth Grade Flower Ceremony and graduated 28 eighth graders with a final thank you. Each player & cheerleader was escorted by their parents to mid field for the final time. Rutherford Junior Football also would like to take this opportunity to thank all the sponsors who donated to the New Helmet Fund

RJF Pee Wees Super Bowl Bound

The Rutherford Junior Football Pee Wees (8-9 year olds) will be playing in the 2009 MFL Super Bowl, after winning a close game against Hasbrouck Heights 12-6. The Bulldogs (10-0) scored with 20 seconds left in the game from 10 yards out. Quarterback Richie Marques audible out of a pass play, calling his own number and then rumbling across the goal line for the winning score. The Bulldogs went into halftime down 6-0 after playing a sloppy first half. The second half saw the Dogs score on an Omar Abdelhamid run from about 5 yards out. The run was set up by running several leads to the right side with Tyler Aponte and Jacob Munoz, before countering back to the left side with Omar. The Rutherford offensive line took over in the second half, gaining momentum and controlling the line of scrimmage. This carried over to defense, where the Dogs stopped Heights on every second half possession: John Kelly, Lawson Fischer, Rich Doren, Nick Ippolito, Mike DeSteno, Anthony Dubeneczic, Joe Fisicaro and Regan Landrigan. The Bulldogs were afforded this opportunity by beating Wallington in the first round of the MFL playoffs last week, 26-0. That game saw DE Bill Finn intercept a pass and return it 45 yards for a score and Munoz blast off right tackle for huge chunks of yardage. The rest of the Bulldogs facing Saddle Brook for the Championship are: Shawn Robin, Sean Moran, Connor Cahill, Jusitin Finelli, Brian Hennessey, Jack Melfa, Eric Wernicki, Greg Keller, Chris Brady, Don Bagnuolo, Sebastian Gaeta, Liam Lynch, Matt Birchby and Dino DeFransisco. The 2009 MFL Super Bowl will be held in Saddle Brook Saturday night 5:00 pm. Last week, the RJF Mighty-Mites (7yr old) finished the season with the first annual Meadowlands Football League Mighty-Mite Day. Matched up vs the Ridgefiald Park Scarlets, the Mites wanted to end the season on a high note. Winning the toss, the Bulldogs opted to go offense first. Throughout the season, the Bulldogs game plan was to keep a constant rotation of fresh players throughout the game. It was no different this game as offensive line players Owen Meister, Virgil Minnick, Josh Glatman, Nick Brady, Brendon Nestor, Chris Avramidis, Derek Micek, Matt Bender, Matt Severino, Mike Davies, John Petrosno and Eric Ribadeneyra rotated throughout the game and with their fresh legs were able to open up holes for the running backs. The backfield also kept a rotation as Zach Bouabidi, Niko Tsiolas, Axel Ramos, Jake Schuman, Rostyk Fedorko, Brendan Kelly, Anthony Doren and Robert Phelp all had input into the final outcome. The plan proved effective once again as on the first play, Axel Ramos took the rock from QB Bouabidi and scampered for 55 yards and was forced out of bounds just three yards short of the endzone. Two plays later, Ramos got the ball again and was able to punch it in for the first score. With the PAT unsuccessful, Rutherford led with a 6-0 score. Now, it was the defense turn to show what they had. Throughout the season, the 'Dogs defense was their strong point. Posting 5 shutouts in the season, they were determined to stand strong. D-Linemen Avramidis, Minnick, Brady, Nestor, Fedorko, Petrosino, Davies and Ribadeneyra penetrated the gaps and wreaked havoc in the RP backfield. When the Scarlets were able to get a play going, defensive ends Micek, Meister, Bender, Severino and the secondary of Tsiolas, Bouabidi, Ramos, Kelly, Doren and Philp kept RP from getting outside. The defensive highlight of the game was when inside defensive tackle Rostyk Fedorko shot through his gap so quickly he took the handoff from the Scarlets QB and ran towards the end zone before getting chased down from behind. In the second half, the Bulldogs maintained their composure and kept the pressure on. Offensively, Ramos scored again with a 45 yard off tackle run making the score 12-0. QB Bouabidi swept to the outside for the extra point giving the 'Dogs a 13-0 lead. With time running out, the Scarlets were unable to put a drive together and the game ended. The RJF Might-Mites ended the season with a winning record and had a lot of fun doing it. After the game, all the Mites received trophies for their outstanding efforts throughout the season. Please check our website for updated info: www.leaguelineup.com/rjfbulldogs




SUPER BOWL 11/21

The Superbowl will be Saturday at 5:00 pm in Saddle Brook. We will be wearing Blue on Blue and meeting at the field at 3:45 pm. We will be weighing in and must be under 110 lbs to participate. We will be sitting on the visitors sideline. We were gracious and allowed SB to have the home side on their own field. Please represent our program with the utmost class & display great sportsmanship during and after the contest.

Win or Lose we will party & celebrate our season at the Elks Club downstairs after the game and everyone is invited. RJF will order pizza and bring hamburgers & hot dogs to cook. I ask that the parents bring desserts and to coordinate thru our team moms (Donna & Lynda).

***RJF Pee Wees Super Bowl Champions***

The Rutherford Junior Football Pee Wees (8-9 year olds) won the 2009 MFL Super Bowl, defeating the Saddle Brook Falcons (9-2) 12-6, in Saddle Brook Saturday night. The Bulldogs (11-0) have recorded their undefeated season as 2009 Southern Division & Super Bowl Champs. The Bulldogs took opening kickoff and marched down field in usual fashion. Quarterback Rich Marques punched it in on a sweep play, behind the blocking of tailback Omar Abdelhamid and fullback Bill Finn. Marques tried to hit tight end John Kelly with a pass for the extra point, but it fell short. The ensuing kickoff saw kicker Regan Landrigan onside and Rutherford recovered. The Bulldogs then drove again with Tyler Aponte capping off the drive with a 25-yard touchdown run. The Bulldogs took a 12-0 lead into halftime. The Bulldogs held the Falcons offense in check the first half, limiting their ground attack with several gang tackles, led by: defensive ends Sean Moran and Finn, defensive tackles Lawson Fischer and Landrigan, nose guard Mike DeSteno, linebackers Connor Cahill, Aponte, Kelly, Omar and defensive corners Jacob Munoz and Marques. The second half saw the Dogs successfully drive the ball and eat up valuable clock, but not punch it in. The Rutherford offensive line controlled the line of scrimmage by firing off the line and getting under their pads. The line was led by: tight ends Joe Fisicaro and Kelly, tackles Anthony Dubenezic and Fischer, guards Rich Doren and DeSteno and center Nick Ippolito. Saddle Brook finally got the big play they were looking for on a sweep, which turned into their lone score of the night. In the fourth quarter, Rutherford held Saddle Brook inside their own 10 and took over on downs. The Bulldogs, uncharacteristically fumbled the next play, giving the ball back to the Falcons. The rest of the Pee Wee Champions are: Shawn Robin, Justin Finelli, Brian Hennessey, Jack Melfa, Eric Wernicki, Greg Keller, Chris Brady, Don Bagnuolo, Sebastian Gaeta, Liam Lynch, Matt Birchby and Dino DeFransisco. A parade is currently being planned on Park Avenue in Rutherford. The 2009 MFL Super Bowl Champions will be playing for the NJ State Championship against the South Jersey Champion from West Deptford on December 5th at Rutgers. That winner will then go on to represent the Northeast in the Pee Wee World Championships in Florida in January 2010. Special thanks goes out to the RJF Cheerleaders, who showed up in full force and our team moms Lynda Gaeta and Donna Birchby.



Sunday 12/13 Competition Cheerleaders in Bethlehem, PA

Tuesday 12/15 Pee Wees - Borough Hall Meeting with Mayor & Council for Town Accomodations.

January 2009 Competition Cheerleaders in Baltimore, Maryland.

Sunday 2/7 Brunch at Fiesta

RJF Cheerleaders Win at Cutter Classic


The RJF Pee Wee (6-8 yr olds) and Senior (9-14 year olds) Competition Cheerleaders opened their travel season the same way they ended last year and that is by winning. The Pee Wees took a first place finish in Mini Cheer & Dance and continued the winning tradition at Fairlawn High School this past weekend. The Senior girls earned a second place finish behind the Bergenfield girls and ahead of third place finisher Waldwick. It was only nine months ago when the Rutherford girls won a National Championship in Disney under Coaches Jennifer Watt and Michelle Mannion. This years teams are Coached by Jenn Brady (Pee Wees), Michelle Mannion, Leann Shapiro and Jenn Watt (Seniors). Next week the girls take their show on the road to Bethlehem, PA for the Winter Wonderland Cheering Tournament. In January the ladies will all be heading out to Baltimore, MD for the American Master Cheering Nationals. Please go to our website for updated information on the Rutherford Jr Football Competition Cheerleaders: www.leaguelineup.com/rjfbulldogs.

Pictured are the Cutter Classic (Fairlawn) 1st Place RJF Pee Wee Competition Team: Maggie Wronko, Sara Miller, Skylar Wazinski, Saige Vargas, Kayla Dray, Julianna DeGennaro, Alyssa Watt, Madison Scott, Vanessa Wilson (missing is Head Coach Jenn Brady and Assistant Coaches Julianna Ohanian, Brittany Jordan and Ally Paskas)

Click on the MFL symbol to go to the Meadowlands Football League Website.

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