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In this episode of Greetings from the Garden State, we cover the NJ Youth Soccer Awards Banquet presented by RWJBarnabas Health in Edison, NJ. Host Mike Ham interviews award-winning players, legendary figures, and key stakeholders shaping NJ youth soccer.

Featured Guests & Segments:

Segment 1: Rising Stars of NJ Youth Soccer

• Gabriel Wahby – Save of the Year
  • Describes his game-winning save and technique.
• Melissa Pires – Goal of the Year
  • Talks about her stunning top-corner goal.
• Bobby Kaupas – Comeback Player of the Year
  • Shares his inspiring journey returning from surgery.

Segment 2: Soccer Legends Panel

• Tab Ramos, John Harkes, Tony Meola
  • Discuss NJ’s rich soccer culture and the 2026 FIFA World Cup impact.

Segment 3: Champions & Teams Making History

• Mark Surretsky (Cedar Stars Academy) – USYS National Champion
• Tomas Monteiro (Ironbound SC) – USYS Eastern Regional Champion
• Alyssa Manasse (Rutgers Prep, NJ ODP, U.S. Inter Regional Team)

Segment 4: The Future of NJ Soccer

• Skip Gilbert (CEO, U.S. Youth Soccer) & Lauren LaRusso (NY/NJ World Cup Host Committee)
  • Discuss the 2026 FIFA World Cup and its youth impact.

Segment 5: Youth Soccer & Community Impact

• Evan Dabby (NJ Youth Soccer)
  • Highlights initiatives to expand soccer access.
• Nan Vogel (Gotham FC)
  • Discusses Keeper in the Game initiative.
• Dr. Jason Krystofiak (Gotham FC, RWJ Barnabas Health)
  • Talks player wellness & injury prevention programs.

Key Takeaways:

• NJ soccer is thriving, producing national champions & inspiring stories.
• The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be a game-changer for NJ soccer.
• Community partnerships (Gotham FC, RWJ Barnabas Health, NJ Youth Soccer) are vital.
• Inspiration for young players: Hard work & passion open doors.

Special Thanks to Our Sponsors:

• New Jersey Lottery – Supporting youth sports
• RWJ Barnabas Health – Promoting player wellness
• Gotham FC – Advancing women’s soccer in NJ

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