Ridgewood Football Reloads with Toughness, Chemistry, and Purpose in 2025
Offseason Focus: Building Complete Football Players
At Ridgewood High School, the 2025 football offseason has been defined by more than just lifting heavy weights. Under the leadership of Head Coach Vince Fanelli, the focus has been on developing complete athletes—physically, mentally, and tactically.
“This offseason, we’ve emphasized strength, speed, and agility, but more importantly, we’ve worked on elevating football IQ and mastering our system,” said Fanelli. “Everything is about discipline, physicality, and team alignment.”
Camps and Joint Practices Fuel Summer Growth
The Rebels have a full offseason schedule designed to foster competition and team bonding. They'll engage in joint practices with York, Taft, and Leyden High Schools and participate in the Maine West 7-on-7 Round Robin.
“These events are more than just reps—they’re opportunities to build chemistry and sharpen our identity,” Fanelli added.
New Faces, Big Departures
Graduation took its toll, with multiple-year starters like Luke Melendez, Gil Mendoza, and Andrew Ciolek moving on to play college football. Their impact will be missed, but their departure opens the door for new leadership to emerge.
Ridgewood also added experienced coaches to its staff, including Andrew Lapezo (Secondary), Michael Ferrante (Linebackers), Guy Nardulli (JV WR/DBs), and the return of Connor Murphy (DL) and Joe Bauers (Defensive Coordinator).
Players to Watch: Veterans Ready to Lead
Quarterback Angelo Vitale is back and showing strong leadership, while Nicco Camillo and Frank Horak form a rugged backfield duo. Alex Hrabchak will anchor the receiving corps, and Michal Cwieczkowski brings strength and versatility at both tight end and defensive end.
On defense, expect big things from Marko Jonic, Frankie Camillo, Peter Rosales, and Kobe Lewis. Meanwhile, Tommy Burkevic transitions to the offensive line and will be a key piece in the trenches.
The offensive coaching staff remains strong, led by Pete Catalano (OC), Jack Lamb (QBs), Larry Nawrot (OL), John Manchester (RBs), and Michael Rodriguez (WRs), all of whom are instrumental in refining Ridgewood's attack.
Training With Purpose: Accountability and Competition
Offseason workouts include early morning lifts, leadership challenges, and performance tracking to build resilience and accountability. Players train five days a week with clear intent.
“The buy-in has been outstanding,” said Fanelli. “This team is hungry and committed.”
Fueling Success: Nutrition and Wellness
With support from football-specific trainer Brandon Yates, players receive guidance on smart nutrition choices, hydration, and game-day fueling. The program stresses wellness as a foundation for peak performance.
Coach’s Corner: Schemes, Relationships, and Results
The coaching staff has spent the offseason refining film, evolving playbooks, and strengthening relationships with players. Trust and communication remain central to the program’s identity.
“Schemes matter, but connection matters more,” Fanelli emphasized. “We’re here to build players, not just plays.”
Community Connection: Giving Back and Staying Visible
The Rebels take pride in representing Ridgewood. Players are active in community service, youth mentorship, and local events. The program is also using social media to stay connected with fans and supporters throughout the offseason.
Facing the Challenge: New Leaders, Same Standard
Ridgewood enters the 2025 season with the goal of reloading—not rebuilding. With a tough schedule and new leaders stepping into key roles, the team is focused on consistency and steady growth.
“Our seniors set the bar high,” Fanelli said. “Now it’s time for the next group to rise to the challenge. If we trust the process, we’ll be ready.”
, Michael Ferrante (Linebackers), Guy Nardulli (JV WR/DBs), and the return of Connor Murphy (DL) and Joe Bauers (Defensive Coordinator).
Players to Watch: Veterans Ready to Lead
Quarterback Angelo Vitale is back and showing strong leadership, while Nicco Camillo and Frank Horak form a rugged backfield duo. Alex Hrabchak will anchor the receiving corps, and Michal Cwieczkowski brings strength and versatility at both tight end and defensive end.
On defense, expect big things from Marko Jonic, Frankie Camillo, Peter Rosales, and Kobe Lewis. Meanwhile, Tommy Burkevic transitions to the offensive line and will be a key piece in the trenches.
The offensive coaching staff remains strong, led by Pete Catalano (OC), Jack Lamb (QBs), Larry Nawrot (OL), John Manchester (RBs), and Michael Rodriguez (WRs), all of whom are instrumental in refining Ridgewood's attack.
Training With Purpose: Accountability and Competition
Offseason workouts include early morning lifts, leadership challenges, and performance tracking to build resilience and accountability. Players train five days a week with clear intent.
“The buy-in has been outstanding,” said Fanelli. “This team is hungry and committed.”
Fueling Success: Nutrition and Wellness
With support from football-specific trainer Brandon Yates, players receive guidance on smart nutrition choices, hydration, and game-day fueling. The program stresses wellness as a foundation for peak performance.
Coach’s Corner: Schemes, Relationships, and Results
The coaching staff has spent the offseason refining film, evolving playbooks, and strengthening relationships with players. Trust and communication remain central to the program’s identity.
“Schemes matter, but connection matters more,” Fanelli emphasized. “We’re here to build players, not just plays.”
Community Connection: Giving Back and Staying Visible
The Rebels take pride in representing Ridgewood. Players are active in community service, youth mentorship, and local events. The program is also using social media to stay connected with fans and supporters throughout the offseason.
Facing the Challenge: New Leaders, Same Standard
Ridgewood enters the 2025 season with the goal of reloading—not rebuilding. With a tough schedule and new leaders stepping into key roles, the team is focused on consistency and steady growth.
“Our seniors set the bar high,” Fanelli said. “Now it’s time for the next group to rise to the challenge. If we trust the process, we’ll be ready.”){kind=tracking}
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