Track and Field:

Senior Ben Johnson has been a cornerstone of NVOT’s cross-country and track programs throughout all four years of high school. Known for his consistency, leadership, and dedication, Johnson has established himself as one of the team’s standout runners. His hard work and commitment have helped set the standard for younger athletes while contributing to the continued success of the Golden Knights. As his high school career comes to a close, Johnson leaves behind a lasting impact on the program both on and off the course. 

Senior Gianna DeMarco continued her standout track and field career this season as one of Bergen County’s top throwers. DeMarco moved into fourth place on NVOT’s all-time shot put list after surpassing 38 feet and earned First Team All-League honors in the event. She also qualified for the State Group Meet in discus and returned to the Meet of Champions for a second straight year. Throughout her four years at NVOT, Gianna has been a consistent leader and contributor to the team.

Softball:

Sophia Savino has been a dedicated member of the varsity softball team throughout all four years of her high school career. She consistently demonstrated strong leadership, an outstanding work ethic, and the ability to rise to any challenge. Head coach Melissa Landeck emphasized her impact, stating, “We had a very young team this season, and senior leadership was instrumental to our success.” Savino delivered one of the season’s biggest moments with a grand slam against Ramapo in the Bergen County Tournament, helping propel the team into the semifinals. She also reached an impressive milestone this year, surpassing 100 career hits and currently totaling 113.

Football:

Devyn Radoian ended his NVOT career with 1,348 rushing yards and 19 touchdowns. In his senior season, Radoian rushed for 883 yards and 14 touchdowns. On the defensive side as a linebacker, Radoian ended his career with 142 total tackles with 8.5 sacks.

The senior class is graduating with an outstanding resume of success. Interior defensive linemen, Ryan Miceli ended his career as a Golden Knight with 151 total tackles with 16 sacks.

In their four years here at NVOT, they won three sectional titles and state titles in 2022 and 2024.

Boys Soccer:

AJ Aiello has been a crucial part of the Old Tappan Varsity Boys Soccer team. He has had 262 career saves over his three years on varsity. He has been a huge team player, his coach – Mark Torrie – commented, “I think AJ Aiello deserves special mention. He was our goalkeeper for 3 years and had to play behind a totally young and inexperienced team. It’s hard to lead a young team but even more difficult to do so from the back line.” Aiello has led his team in many ways: he has been a mentor to the younger players on the team and he has embodied what it means to be fully committed to a team. 

Girls Soccer: 

Nina Caunedo has been an outstanding part of the team throughout her four years, setting the standard for what it means to be a dedicated and impactful player. As a senior, she not only led by example with her positive attitude and work ethic, but also played a crucial role in the team’s success on both ends of the field. A consistent starter on defense and a key contributor on offense, Caunedo’s versatility and reliability made her someone the team could always count on. Her back-to-back First Team All-County honors, along with being named First Team All North Jersey, reflect both her talent and the respect she earned across the region. More than just her accolades, Caunedo’s leadership and presence helped shape the team’s culture, and she leaves behind a strong legacy that will be felt long after her graduation.

Girls Lacrosse:

Jaley Mazzetti has been a cornerstone of our girls lacrosse program throughouther four years on varsity, serving as our starting goalie with consistency, toughness, and leadership. Finishing her career with an impressive 466 saves, Mazzetti has been the backbone of our defense, stepping up in high-pressure moments and keeping our team competitive in every game. Her ability to read shots, communicate with her defenders, and stay composed under pressure made her an invaluable presence on the field.

Girls Basketball: 

Sienna Drullinsky was the driving force behind NVOT’s remarkable season, leading not only with her talent but with her composure and leadership as a senior. A two-time All-County and All-Big North selection, she capped off her career by earning both Big North Player of the Year and North Jersey Player of the Year. Beyond the accolades, Drullinsky’s impact was felt in every aspect of the game. Whether it was scoring in clutch situations, controlling the pace, or stepping up defensively, she proved to be a complete player who could be relied on in any situation. As a senior leader, she helped guide a talented group through a deep postseason run that ended with a sectional title and a trip to the state final at Rutgers.

Boys Tennis:

Sami Gurunathan embodied what it means to be a true captain, leading the team with a perfect balance of intensity and approachability. His competitive drive set the tone every game, while his personality helped keep the team connected and focused throughout the season. Time and time again, Gurunathan elevated his play in crucial moments, stepping up when it mattered most to secure key wins. What made him stand out even more was his intelligence and work ethic. A smart, disciplined player, he consistently made the right decisions and put in the effort needed to succeed at a high level.

Boys Basketball:

Senior Captain Joey Martin was one of the team’s most dependable and impactful players this season. A four-year varsity athlete, he built his game on toughness, doing the little things, and leading by example. Averaging nearly a double-double each game, Martin was a dominant presence in the paint and a tough matchup for any opponent. As Coach Craig Ferraro said, “His hard work and effort has turned him into one of the toughest matchups in our league down low.” More than just his stats, his leadership and grit helped shape the team’s identity and pushed those around him to compete at a higher level.

Girls Tennis:

Senior Captain Lili Setrakian led the team as the first singles player. Coach Craig Ferraro said, “Lili is one of the fiercest competitors I have had the pleasure to coach.” Her no-quit attitude, relentless effort, and strong will to win made her a standout leader and a constant force for the team. Setrakian’s intensity and passion set the tone, showing how hard work and determination can define a successful high school career.

Wrestling:

In his first year as a full-time starter, Sal Tropea made an immediate impact with an impressive 26 wins. He consistently performed at a high level, earning 2nd place finishes at the Ramsey and Parsippany Hills Tournaments, placing 2nd in Districts, and qualifying for the Region 1 Tournament. His rapid development, consistency, and ability to compete against top opponents made him a key contributor and a major part of the team’s success this season.

Despite missing time due to injury, Leo DeCandia showed resilience and determination all season, finishing with 17 wins. He battled through adversity and still delivered strong performances, placing 3rd at the Ramsey Tournament and 2nd at the Parsippany Hills Holiday Tournament. His perseverance and toughness set the tone for his teammates and highlighted his dedication to the sport.

Bowling:

Senior Rocco Varni stood out this season not only for his performance, but for the leadership and presence he brought to the team. Varni finished the year with an impressive 7,704 total pins, a 175.09 average, and a high game of 257 across 44 games, consistently delivering in key moments. Reflecting on his final season, Varni said, “This year’s bowling season played a significant role in making my senior year both rewarding and memorable… it taught me the value of perseverance, teamwork, and commitment.” Beyond the numbers, his impact was felt in the team’s chemistry and culture.

Senior Julia Horgan was a standout not only for her performance, but for the culture she helped build within the program. She finished her career with 15,049 total pins, a high game of 178, and a 127.53 average, showing steady growth and consistency each season. Coach Steve Ahad said, “Julia has been vital in creating and establishing team culture.” Beyond the numbers, Horgan played a vital role in establishing the team’s identity, bringing positivity, leadership, and a strong sense of unity to the group.

Boys Lacrosse:

Senior goalie Walker Lynch stood out as the backbone of Old Tappan’s defense this season, combining elite skill with strong leadership. He recorded an impressive 198 saves and a 60% save percentage, finishing his career with 372 total saves. Known for his quick reflexes and toughness in the crease, Lynch consistently stepped up in big moments and set the tone for those around him. “Walker was the leader of our defense all season and someone we could always rely on in big moments,” said head coach Dave Plecia. “His work ethic and competitiveness made him one of the top goalies in our program.” Lynch’s presence went beyond the numbers, as he brought energy, accountability, and a winning mindset to the team while helping build a strong, competitive culture.

Field Hockey:

Emily Ha stood out for her dedication and commitment to the program. As one of only two players in her grade to stay with the team all four years, she became a reliable leader and role model. Underclassmen looked up to her for guidance and support. Coach Amanda McCarthy said, “The underclassmen were super reliant on them to be pillars of our team.” Ha also took initiative in organizing the team’s summer schedule, helping keep players connected and prepared for the season.

Natalie Santiago brought a strong sense of community and leadership to the team throughout her four years in the program. As one of only two seniors in her grade who remained committed all four years, she helped create a welcoming environment for teammates of all ages. Santiago made it a priority to ensure everyone felt included, helping build a strong and connected team culture. Her leadership and positive influence left a lasting impact on both her teammates and the program.

Winter and Fall Cheer:

Senior captain Sophia Reduce stood out this season for her leadership and dedication to the program. She consistently led by example, setting a positive tone and standard for the team every day. Coach Amy Weir said, “She was a dependable role model for younger athletes, helping keep the team motivated, focused, and united.” Through her strong work ethic and positive attitude, Sophia left a lasting impact and helped shape the culture of the program.

Senior captain Payton Kremer also stood out this season for her leadership and commitment to the program. She led by example both in practice and competition, demonstrating the focus and determination that younger athletes looked up to. Coach Amy Weir said, “She was a dependable role model for younger athletes, helping keep the team motivated, focused, and united.” Through her dedication and positive influence, Payton made a meaningful contribution to the team and left a lasting legacy within the program.

Baseball:

Senior Selden Kolkebeck was one of the most accomplished and impactful players in New Jersey this season, earning a nomination for Player of the Year at the NorthJersey.com Sports Awards and committing to Columbia University to continue his career. A key leader on the field, Kolkebeck helped lead the team to a Group 3 State Championship, cementing his place in program history. Reflecting on the achievement, he said, “Winning a state championship means the world to me. It’s by far the most important and meaningful thing that’s happened sports related [to me]  and probably will be forever.” His talent, leadership, and ability to perform in the biggest moments made him a player who will be remembered for years to come.

Girls Volleyball: 

Senior Julia Whaley was instrumental in helping lead the team to back-to-back Bergen County Championships, including a victory over IHA this season. Throughout her career, she played a key role in building a dominant program that captured two league titles, two county championships, and a state championship. Whaley not only contributed with her skill on the court, but also set the standard for leadership, consistency, and team culture. Coach Melissa Landeck said, “Her work ethic and leadership will be missed.” Her volleyball journey will continue at Saint Peter’s University, where she will compete at the collegiate level while carrying forward the legacy she helped create.

Senior Eva Curko was a vital part of the team’s success, helping lead the program to back-to-back Bergen County Championships, including a victory over IHA this season. During her career, she contributed to a remarkable run that included two league titles, two county championships, and a state championship. Curko’s impact extended beyond her play on the court, as she consistently demonstrated leadership, dedication, and a commitment to team culture. Coach Melissa Landeck said, “Her work ethic and leadership will be missed.” She will continue her volleyball career at Stevens Institute of Technology, beginning the next chapter of a journey that has already left a lasting mark on the program.