5/26/25

New Jersey’s boys high school volleyball landscape in 2025 presents one of the most competitive and talent-rich environments in the nation. With 216 teams competing across eight sectional groups, the state continues to showcase elite-level play that rivals any region in the country. Using the comprehensive NJPowerRanking.com algorithm, which boasts a remarkable 93% accuracy rate in game predictions, we dive deep into each sectional group to examine the teams, players, and storylines that will define the 2025 championship chase.

The NJP ranking system utilizes a sophisticated algorithm that factors in schedule strength (SSF), win-loss records, and point differential as well as other factors to create the most accurate assessment of team strength. This analysis becomes particularly valuable as teams prepare for sectional play, where seeding and matchups can determine championship aspirations.

North-1 Section: Harrison Leads a Competitive Field

The North-1 section showcases remarkable depth with 34 teams vying for sectional supremacy. Harrison High School sits atop the section with an impressive 24.74 rating and a sterling 24-2 overall record (49-6 in sets). The Blue Tide have compiled an outstanding 0.923 winning percentage while posting an average point differential of 8.42 per set, the highest in their section. Harrison features senior setter Jeremy Rivera (24 kills, 560 assists across 55 sets) and senior Alaittim DeLeon (169 kills, 48 blocks), providing both playmaking excellence and front-row power.

West Caldwell Tech emerges as Harrison’s primary challenger, ranking second in the section with a 22.11 rating. The Eagles have posted a solid 20-6 record with a 0.769 winning percentage. WCT features multiple standout performers, including Dennis Ayora (515 kills, 211 blocks across 65 sets) and Timothy Smith (362 kills, 29 blocks in 65 sets). At 6’5″, Timothy Smith has become a force to be reckoned with on the volleyball court for West Caldwell Tech. The senior outside hitter has already accumulated over 470 career kills and represents a significant offensive threat with his imposing physical presence and 11’9″ vertical leap. The team also benefits from libero John Jimenez, who has recorded 489 digs and is one of NJ’s best back row defenders.

Lakeland rounds out the top three in North-1 with a 19.33 rating and 14-5 record. The Lancers have shown consistency throughout the season, maintaining a 0.737 winning percentage while competing against quality opposition. The Passaic County tournament win has been a hallmark for their season.

The section’s competitive balance is evident in the tight clustering of ratings, with teams like Passaic Charter (ranked 4th, 19.03 rating) and Jefferson (ranked 5th, 18.75 rating) capable of making noise in sectional play. Jefferson features setter Jack Schild who has accumulated 327 assists, providing consistent playmaking ability.

Key players throughout North-1 include Ylan Tapper from Garfield, who leads the section with 350 kills across 59 sets while adding 28 blocks and 56 aces. Technology High School boasts Sergio Mantrana, a middle blocker who has contributed 111 kills and 70 blocks in 53 sets. Weehawken features senior Adam Uryniuk with 280 kills and 127 digs, while senior James Harrison has added 79 kills and 133 digs across 41 sets, providing veteran leadership and two-way production.

At the bottom of the section, teams like Pioneer Academy and Newark Global Studies face significant challenges with winless records, but their inclusion in the sectional creates opportunities for dramatic upsets that define high school sports.

North-2 Section: Ramapo Dominates with Balanced Attack

North-2 presents a fascinating contrast to North-1, with Ramapo establishing itself as the clear section favorite. The Raiders boast a 23.98 rating and an impressive 17-2 record, translating to a 0.895 winning percentage. Their 35-8 set record demonstrates their ability to close out matches efficiently. Their core is lead by three juniors, Misha Callaway (206 kills, 108 digs), Alex Karakowiak (443 assists, 81 digs), and Adam Werminski (167 kills, 103 digs). The NJP algorithm has loved the Raiders all season long and they appear to be likely candidates for a sectional crown.

Randolph High School has emerged as a legitimate contender in North-2, ranking second with a 21.71 rating. The Randolph Rams boys volleyball team were on a tear this spring, rolling to an unbeaten 21-0 record behind a powerful lineup that features one of New Jersey’s rising stars, 6’5″ junior Benjamin Barninger. With 215 kills and 53 blocks in 53 sets, the Rams have built their success around Barninger’s dominant presence at the net. The team also features senior setter Kevin Tinio, who has recorded 536 assists across 53 sets, providing excellent distribution for the Rams’ offensive attack. The Rams have lost momentum, dropping 4 straight against some top opponents, and have not won a set since 5/7.

Wayne Valley (ranked 3rd, 19.63 rating) and Teaneck (ranked 4th, 19.05 rating) provide additional depth to the section’s upper tier. Wayne Valley’s 17-6 record includes quality wins that should position them well for sectional seeding. Wayne Valley features senior Joe Ricci, an outside hitter who has accumulated 98 kills across 42 sets while facing challenging competition.

The middle tier of North-2 features competitive balance, with teams like Bergenfield, Garfield, and Payne Tech all within striking distance of making sectional runs. Bergenfield’s 14-12 record might appear modest, but their 0.538 winning percentage against tough competition keeps them in contention. Garfield features senior setter Roger Chavez who has accumulated 554 assists and significant service production. Payne Tech showcases junior Josh Joseph (146 kills, 31 blocks) and senior Brice Valle (26 kills, 403 assists), providing both offensive power and playmaking ability. Nutley also presents challenges with Shane Castellanos contributing 200 kills and 90 service points as a middle blocker/outside hitter.

North-2’s lower tier includes several teams struggling for consistency, with West Milford (0-19 record) and West Side (1-10 record) facing significant rebuilding challenges.

North-3 Section: Scotch Plains-Fanwood Sets the Standard

North-3 Section represents perhaps the most talent-dense grouping in New Jersey volleyball. Scotch Plains-Fanwood leads the way with an exceptional 25.31 rating, ranking third overall in the state. The Raiders have compiled a dominant 23-4 record with a 0.852 winning percentage, establishing themselves as legitimate state title contenders. The Raiders are powered by junior Daniel Ennis, who has recorded 354 kills across 60 sets, showcasing remarkable versatility as an attacker. Sophomore Brody Balestrino complements the attack with 752 assists and excellent court vision.

Millburn occupies second place in the section with a 22.57 rating and 18-6 record. The Millers have consistently performed at a high level, maintaining a 0.750 winning percentage while facing quality competition throughout their schedule. Millburn features junior setter Ishaan Modi (611 assists) and senior Patryk Przybyszewski (217 kills, 156 digs), providing both offensive firepower and defensive stability.

Fair Lawn rounds out the top three with a 22.42 rating and impressive 21-6 record. The Cutters have demonstrated offensive firepower throughout the season, led by senior Benjamin Braudo who has accumulated 297 kills and 267 digs across 60 sets, showcasing exceptional all-around play.

Hackensack represents another powerhouse in North-3, ranking fourth with a 21.93 rating and stellar 24-2 record. The Comets have dominated their regular season schedule with a 0.923 winning percentage, making them a dangerous sectional tournament team.

The depth of North-3 becomes apparent when examining teams like Watchung Hills (ranked 5th), Colonia (ranked 6th), and Kearny (ranked 7th), all of which possess the talent to make deep sectional runs. Colonia features senior Daniel Latkowski (284 kills, 58 blocks) and senior Noah Sims (181 kills, 24 blocks), providing a potent offensive combination. Westfield and Belleville complete a formidable top nine that could produce multiple state tournament qualifiers, with Belleville showcasing senior Tonio Guglietta (280 kills, 25 blocks) and junior Peter Garcia (33 kills, 111 digs).

Notable storylines include Ridge’s struggles this season (4-20 record despite a talented roster) and the continued development of programs like Bergen Catholic and St. Peter’s Prep, both of which bring strong athletic traditions to volleyball. Bergen Catholic features junior George Azrumelashvili, an outside hitter who has produced 314 kills and impressive defensive numbers across 56 sets.

North-4 Section: Elizabeth Leads Balanced Competition

North-4 Section showcases competitive balance with Elizabeth claiming the top spot at a 22.20 rating. The Minutemen have posted a solid 19-3 record with a 0.864 winning percentage, establishing themselves as the section’s premier program. Despite Elizabeth leading the North at Group 4, they only rank seventh statewide in Group 4, which means winning a group title for Elizabeth will be a tough assignment.

Livingston follows closely in second place with a 21.95 rating and 13-11 record. Despite the modest win total, the Lancers have competed well against quality opposition and possess the talent to make a sectional run.

East Orange rounds out the top three with a 20.92 rating and strong 17-5 record. The Jaguars have maintained consistency throughout the season while building toward sectional play.

The middle tier of North-4 features several intriguing programs, including Bloomfield (ranked 4th), Passaic Tech (ranked 5th), and North Bergen (ranked 6th). Each program brings unique strengths that could influence sectional outcomes. Bloomfield features senior Pedro Silva (67 kills, 523 assists) demonstrating versatility as both an attacker and setter. North Bergen showcases senior Ayush Ghale (39 kills, 493 assists) and senior Jeremiah Flores (16 kills, 106 digs), providing both offensive and defensive contributions.

Montclair’s seventh-place ranking (18.83 rating) despite a 7-15 record highlights the importance of schedule strength in the NJP algorithm. The Mounties have faced challenging competition that could benefit them in tournament play.

Programs like Bergen Tech and Demarest provide additional depth to North-4, while teams at the bottom of the section, including Paterson Kennedy and Newark East Side, face significant challenges but retain the potential for tournament surprises.

South-1 Section: St. John Vianney Demonstrates Excellence

South-1 Section features St. John Vianney as the clear favorite with a 23.43 rating and impressive 18-2 record. The Lancers have maintained a 0.900 winning percentage while posting excellent statistical numbers across all categories.

Hudson Catholic occupies second place with a 20.34 rating and solid 18-4 record. The Hawks have consistently performed at a high level, establishing themselves as a legitimate sectional contender.

Collingswood rounds out the top three with a 17.45 rating and 16-8 record. The Panthers have shown steady improvement throughout the season and possess the experience to compete in sectional play.

The section’s depth includes programs like Oratory (ranked 4th) and Pennsauken Tech (ranked 5th), both of which bring strong fundamentals and competitive experience to sectional competition. Oratory features junior Devon Fernandez (295 kills, 16 blocks) and junior Miles Williamson (19 kills, 470 assists), showcasing both offensive power and excellent playmaking.

South-1’s competitive balance extends throughout the middle tier, with teams like McNair, Keyport, and Central Jersey College Charter all capable of advancing through early sectional rounds.

Lower-tier teams face significant challenges, with several programs posting winless records. However, the single-elimination nature of sectional play creates opportunities for dramatic upsets.

South-2 Section: St. Joseph Leads Talented Field

South-2 Section presents exceptional depth with St. Joseph (Metuchen) claiming the top spot with a 25.17 rating. The Falcons rank fifth overall in the state with a 22-5 record and 0.815 winning percentage. At 6’5″, senior outside hitter Gian Gomez and junior Dominic Nycz have accumulated 240 kills each providing the Falcons with a dominant offensive presence and 1-2 punch.

Pinelands follows in second place with a 21.83 rating and 18-8 record. The Wildcats have maintained consistency throughout their schedule while preparing for sectional competition. Pinelands features senior Matt Davis (249 kills, 188 digs across 60 sets) and senior Zach Kay (28 kills, 505 assists), providing both offensive power and playmaking ability.

Barnegat occupies third place with a 21.82 rating and outstanding 20-4 record. The Bengals have posted a 0.833 winning percentage, establishing themselves as legitimate sectional contenders. Barnegat’s attack is led by senior Jack Buscaglia (49 kills, 514 assists) and sophomore Ian Soberano (158 kills, 151 digs), showcasing both veteran leadership and emerging talent.

Holmdel rounds out the top four with a 21.71 rating and impressive 20-3 record. The Hornets have demonstrated exceptional consistency with a 0.870 winning percentage. Holmdel’s balanced attack features senior Tyler Lavell (35 kills, 573 assists) and junior Madoc Beynon (173 kills, 56 blocks), providing both setting excellence and front-row power.

The section’s competitive depth includes quality programs like Moorestown, Absegami, and Hopewell Valley, all of which possess the talent to advance deep into sectional play. Moorestown features junior Ryan Lee (35 kills, 412 assists) providing excellent court vision and playmaking ability. Absegami showcases senior Daymeon Hallock (218 kills, 17 blocks) and senior Jake Khuc (96 kills, 525 assists), offering both offensive firepower and distribution skills.

South-2’s middle tier features experienced programs like Jackson Liberty, St. Augustine, and Triton, each bringing unique strengths to sectional competition.

South-3 Section: Southern Regional Dominates

South-3 Section showcases Southern Regional as the state’s second-ranked team with an exceptional 26.66 rating. The Rams have compiled a remarkable 25-1 record with a 0.962 winning percentage, establishing themselves as legitimate state championship contenders.

For Southern Regional High School, where championship banners hang as testaments to volleyball excellence, junior setter Logan Homme has recorded 16 kills and 676 assists across 64 sets, demonstrating exceptional court vision and playmaking ability. Additional key contributors include senior Jonah Krinic (193 kills, 154 digs) and junior Van Miller (224 kills, 43 blocks), providing both offensive firepower and defensive presence.

West Windsor-Plainsboro North occupies second place with a 22.50 rating and 19-7 record. The Knights have maintained steady performance throughout their challenging schedule.

West Windsor-Plainsboro South follows closely in third with a 22.26 rating and identical 19-7 record. The Pirates have demonstrated consistency while facing quality competition.

Marlboro rounds out the top four with a 21.68 rating and 19-6 record. The Mustangs have posted a strong 0.760 winning percentage while building toward sectional play. Marlboro’s attack is anchored by senior Isaiah Tinsley (269 kills, 109 digs across 56 sets), providing consistent offensive production.

The section’s depth includes programs like Jackson Memorial, Williamstown, and Cherry Hill West, each possessing the talent to make sectional runs. Jackson Memorial features senior Daniel Barry (280 kills, 1,034 service points in 51 sets) and senior Giedrius Makselis (206 kills, 34 blocks), while Williamstown boasts junior Gavin Batterman (20 kills, 1,350 digs, 564 assists), showcasing exceptional defensive and playmaking skills.

South-3’s competitive balance extends through teams like Northern Burlington, Howell, and Colts Neck, all of which bring experience and fundamental soundness to sectional competition. Northern Burlington features junior Nithik Kambhampati (13 kills, 478 assists), while Colts Neck showcases senior Krister Leya (289 kills, 114 digs) and junior CJ Collins (162 kills, 66 blocks), providing both offensive production and defensive stability.

South-4 Section: Old Bridge Establishes Dominance

South-4 Section features Old Bridge as the state’s top-ranked team with an exceptional 30.00 rating. The Knights have compiled a perfect 27-1 record with a 0.964 winning percentage, establishing themselves as the clear state championship favorite. Their 56-4 set record demonstrates their ability to dominate matches at the highest level.

The competitive excellence at the top of New Jersey volleyball is evident in the tight ratings between the state’s elite programs, with Old Bridge maintaining their #1 position despite the challenges posed by other top-tier teams throughout the season.

Monroe follows in second place with a 25.30 rating and strong 20-7 record. The Falcons have maintained a 0.741 winning percentage while facing challenging competition throughout their schedule.

Hillsborough occupies third place with a 24.27 rating and impressive 23-4 record. The Raiders have posted a 0.852 winning percentage, making them dangerous sectional competitors.

Lenape rounds out the top four with a 23.20 rating and solid 20-4 record. The Indians have demonstrated consistency with a 0.833 winning percentage.

The section’s exceptional depth includes powerhouse programs like Bridgewater-Raritan, Kingsway, and Piscataway, each capable of advancing to state competition. Bridgewater-Raritan is led by senior Harry Fromberg (292 kills, 27 blocks in 60 sets), while Kingsway features junior setter Billy Palese who has recorded 369 assists and impressive service statistics across 62 sets. The 6’6″ outside hitter Fromberg from Bridgewater-Raritan High School, provides the Bears with a dominant offensive weapon.

Middle-tier teams like J.P. Stevens, South Brunswick, and Hunterdon Central bring experience and talent that could influence sectional outcomes. J.P. Stevens features sophomore setter James Lugo (36 kills, 468 assists across 48 sets), while Monroe showcases junior Shreesh Santhosh (166 kills) and senior Joel Abraham (174 kills).

Tournament Outlook and Predictions

Based on the comprehensive NJP analysis, several trends emerge as sectional play approaches. Teams with higher schedule strength factors often perform better in tournament settings, as they’ve been tested against quality competition throughout the regular season.

Old Bridge’s near perfect rating and dominant statistical profile make them the clear favorite for the overall state championship. However, Southern Regional’s exceptional record and experienced roster position them as the primary challenger.

Here we go…

North 1: Harrison is our pick as the N1 Champion. West Caldwell Tech will likely be runner up. N1 has one of the highest levels of individual talent in NJ and we feel they could be one of the best All-Star squads with WCT’s Tim Smith and Weehawken’s Adam Uryniuk. If some of these individual players get hot and dominate, the landscape can change quickly. You also have Lakeland coming off a Passaic County Championship and Passaic Charter as the highest ranked Independent squad. Despite the Blue Tides high rating, this will be a competitive sectional with a chance for quarter and semi final upsets.

North 2: With Randolph’s recent 4 game losing streak, Ramapo appears to be a clear leader in this sectional and is our pick for N2. NJP has them as a top 10 team in NJ with most other teams in this sectional near 50 or higher. Garfield, with Ylan Tapper, could be a surprise achiever in this sectional.

North 3: Seven top 40 teams are present in N3. Scotch Plains Fanwood has a world of talent and has had another successful season under Head Coach Brock Hor. One of the most intriguing group final potential matchups is SPF against Southern. There is a lot of volleyball to play before that comes to fruition but it would be a doozy! The real question is can SPF sustain through the road to a sectional title against some very good teams including Millburn, Hackensack, Fair Lawn, Colonia and Kearny. They obviously won’t play all these teams but they are likely to get 2 of them in the semi and final. SPF has lost two in a row heading into states which certainly shows some vulnerability. We are still going to select the Raiders as N3 champs.

North 4: For Group 4, the North is not considered the strongest of the sectionals. Elizabeth has had an outstanding year at 19-3 and we love their chances to advance to a Group title match. Livingston has already incurred 11 losses and teams like East Orange, Bloomfield, Passaic Tech and North Bergen appear a few points per set behind the Minutemen.

South 1: The Lancers from St. John Vianney seem locked in for a sectional title game. Their likely matchup will be against Hudson Catholic. We have Vianney at #9 in NJ and the Hawks at #40. The closest team after that #77 Collingswood and rest is ranked over 100. A SJV vs. Harrison Group final would be a stellar matchup.

South 2: The Falcons of St. Joe’s Metuchen are the likely winners of S2 as they go for the three-peat. They have a world of firepower and have kept close to the NJ elite or are arguably a part of the group. They have three main competitors that will be in the hunt from the Shore. Pineland, Barnegat and Holmdel all have the potential of making the semi-finals or finals.

South 3: There is a 4-point difference between Southern and any other team. That makes it 95% certain that the Rams will take advantage of their drop to Group 3 and win the sectional. Despite some very talented teams from WWPN, WWPS, Marlboro, Jackson Memorial, and Williamstown, we don’t see them getting close to the Rams.

South 4: Eleven teams in the top 25. What a competitive sectional. But it includes the highest rated team in NJ and they are almost 5 points better than any other takers. Old Bridge will face some of NJ’s best, but we expect them to prevail. The South sectional will present their toughest competition on their road to another section, group, and state title.

The sectional format creates opportunities for dramatic upsets, particularly in sections with competitive balance like North-3 and South-2. Teams that have faced adversity during the regular season often emerge as dangerous tournament competitors.

New Jersey’s 2025 boys high school volleyball season has produced exceptional competitive balance across all eight sectional groups. The combination of established powerhouse programs and emerging talent creates an environment where sectional championships remain highly competitive.

The NJPowerRanking.com analysis provides invaluable insight into team strengths and potential matchup advantages as sectional play approaches. With over 200 teams competing for sectional titles and eventual state championship opportunities, the 2025 tournament promises to deliver memorable moments and crown deserving champions.

As teams prepare for sectional competition, the depth of talent across New Jersey volleyball ensures that every match will feature skilled athletes competing at the highest level. The state’s continued growth in boys volleyball participation and competitive excellence positions New Jersey as a national leader in the sport.

The upcoming sectional tournaments will ultimately determine which teams advance to state competition, but the regular season analysis suggests that New Jersey volleyball fans can expect exceptional competition and memorable performances as the 2025 season reaches its climax.