Wednesday Random Thoughts

Just a couple of random thoughts and notes:


I don’t know about other schools but I have to say that at Toms River High School South “Back to School Night” is a happening filled with a lot of vibe and energy. The basic intent is for parents to spend a few minutes in each of their children’s classes so they can meet the teachers and get an idea of what will be expected during the year. I’m sure High School South is not alone in using the evening to showcase clubs, organizations, teams and spirit as many of them set up in the cafeteria and were selling everything including themed clothing, yearbooks, key chains and bumper stickers. It was organized chaos and parents came with shopping lists and their checkbooks while student leaders enthusiastically solicited sales and support. A very positive way to begin the school year.

Al Saner, one of the shore’s true coaching legends has been selected to receive the Dr. John F. Bateman Foundation’s Lifetime Achievement Award
during a banquet October 5th at the Hale Center at Rutgers University. Saner was the head football coach as well as track coach at Point Pleasant Boro High School and his Panther football teams won three state titles during his 28-year tenure. Retired from teaching Saner is now in his fourth season as a member of Tom Farrell’s coaching staff at New Egypt High School. The award he’ll be receiving is one of two given annually by the Bateman Foundation which was established in memory of the former Rutgers football coach by a group of his ex players.

Owner Joe Finley might get to celebrate his second minor league baseball championship in his many years but with different teams. Finley’s Lakewood BlueClaws won the South Atlantic League Championship last September and his Trenton Thunder are two wins away from the Eastern League Championship after winning the opener of their best-of-5 series with Akron last night at Waterfront Park.