This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Schools

Union County Stars Set For North-South Football Classic

Summit coach Kevin Kostibos will work as an assistant offensive line coach. Ten Union County football players were selected to participate in the 2012 New Jersey North-South All-Star game.

Anthony Byers, Dave Barletta, Anthony Manganiello and Michael Kilmek were all selected to compete in the 34th annual North-South All-Star Football Classic today at Kean University. All of the directors, general managers, coaches and athletes were introduced to the press on Sunday at Piscataway High School.

In addition to the game, all players participate in a four-day camp, which serves to help the athletes prepare for the game, and prepare for the responsibilities and rigorous schedule that comes along with being a collegiate athlete. 

, as he will get one last opportunity to play for legendary New Providence Football Coach Frank Bottone, .

Find out what's happening in Summitwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Byers, a standout running back for Scotch Plains-Fanwood, has not decided where he will play at the next level. Regardless, he still plans on using the game to acclimate himself with the high level of play.

"It's going to be real good competition," said Byers. "It definitely will help you prepare more for the next level and the challenges."

Find out what's happening in Summitwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Kilmek, a key leader and linebacker on Cranford's 2011 sectional championship squad, is the first Cougar selected for the game in six seasons.

"It is an honor for me and my school," said Kilmek. "It is just icing on the cake."

He also knows that the camp will provide him a valuable opportunity to ease his adjustment into life as a freshman player for Division III power Montclair State University.

"This is a great way to get ready for the next level," said Kilmek. "Especially the dorm environment and the level of competition. I'm going to just be like a sponge out there."

Manganiello, a 6'3", 270-pound center from Governor Livingston, will continue his career for the Lehigh University Mountain Hawks of the Patriot League. 

"It's going to be a really great honor to play in this game," said Manganiello. "I'm excited about the opportunity to represent my coaches and teammates."

The game will kickoff at 7 p.m. today at Kean University.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

The views expressed in this post are the author's own. Want to post on Patch?