By Steffen Klenk
The Mustangs of Mainland Regional High School had an impressive season. Their football team won the Group 4 state championship this past November, defeating Ramapo by a score of 56-0. On top of that, they became the first high school football team in state history to lead an impressive 14-0 season. This record-breaking season was worth celebrating this past Saturday at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Atlantic City.
Families, friends, students, and faculty members filled Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena for a joyous pep rally, filled with guest speeches, the school’s marching band, cheerleaders, and trophies. Many who were in attendance brandished the school colors of green and white, some in custom-made jackets and shoes, with the sights and sounds of pom-poms waving proudly in the crowd.
During the event, the Mainland Marching Band not only performed for the crowd but was given special recognition for their successes. In addition to taking home the USBands NJ State Group 1A Championship, the band also won the National Group 1A title. Each band member was given full acknowledgement, with special honors to each senior member. The Mainland High School Cheerleaders also led in a routine.
For the hard-working teammates, it was a day filled with surprises. Before each player was recognized, a special montage video played on the big screen, with messages of congratulations from some of the most well-known icons in sports and entertainment, including Lil Baby, Shaquelle O’Neal, Jason Kelce, Andy Reid, Dolphins Wide Receiver Nat Moore, Hall of Fame Coach Jimmy Johnson, and Super Bowl Champion Tom Brady, just to name a few. Even Hall of Fame wrestling legend Hulk Hogan chimed in, flexing his signature muscles and sunglasses.
A highlight reel showcased the Mustang’s 14-0 winning season, with highlights from their biggest matches of the year, from their long-seasoned rivalry at Ocean City all the way to the state title game at Rutgers’ SHI Stadium. Each of the players were introduced and invited to the stage one-by-one to lift the trophy as balloons rained from the rafters. It was a true celebration for the ages.
Superintendent Mark Marrone said this win and celebration was the most humbling experience he has witnessed. “It’s all about the kids. In my eighteen-year career at Mainland, it has been about the kids.”
Jim Allen, Chairman of Hard Rock International, presented Marrone with a custom Hard Rock guitar and a check for $25,000 for The Alcove Center, an organization aiding grieving children and families throughout the South Jersey area. Allen grew up in Northfield and is a proud Mainland alumnus, graduating in 1978. Having attended the championship game at Rutgers, he spoke about the team’s successes, with a few words of motivation for the players and attendees.
Senator Vince Polistina made a special appearance at Saturday’s ceremony and spoke briefly about the team’s successes and the values they bring both on and off the field. “These team members are going to be the ones leading the charge; this is the epitome of what this region is about.”
Congratulations Mustangs on a well-deserved victory.
Steffen Klenk is a photographer and multimedia journalist who enjoys capturing the eclectic moments of shore life. You may contact Steffen at shorelocalsteffen@gmail.com.
