The Morris Knolls Eagles take pride in their sports year round, with every athlete striving to push beyond limits and seek greatness in order to uphold the reputation they have earned from previous seasons. Specifically, the winter sports are worth following, keeping Knolls as one of Morris County’s fiercest competitors.
The Eagles have seen success on the court, in the rink, and on the mat. Each win demonstrates relentless hustle and most importantly, the unity that Morris Knolls is known for. Their titles and huge victories set a standard for the athletes in this upcoming season. Vice Principal, Mr. Cirigliano speaks highlight of MK student athletes and the bond he has created with them, saying, “It is easy for administrators to root for kids that we like.”
During the 2024-2025 season the Girls Basketball team delivered a year to remember. Fueled by grit and discipline, they rose above their toughest opponents. The girls hard work paid off with a State Sectional Championship win against Northern Valley Demarest and the title of Division Champions in the (NJAC) National Division. Though, it was not an easy ride. Senior Mackenzie Comprelli, who was a junior at the time, spoke about what went into last season. “We had the want. We had the motivation to win.” With a standout 24-6 record, her words ring true. The rings and bragging rights were earned with pure effort.
Looking ahead, the 2025 – 2026 squad has every opportunity to make another deep run. Mackenzie shared with optimism, “despite losing seniors, our underclassmen will step up and play with chemistry to win again.” Comprelli’s confidence speaks volumes about the bright future for the program.
Succeeding in the previous season, the wrestling team worked for stats that made history during the 2024 – 2025 season. The team finished with a remarkable record of 19–5 and placed 3rd in District 8, setting a new Morris Knolls Wrestling record for most wins in a season. Luke Shivas reflected on one of his favorites moments from last year, sharing, “The best moment of last season was beating Hills in a last minute match and watching Lucas Nagua overcome adversity.” With the team setting its sights higher for the year ahead, the energy around the program continues to build. Shivas is also chasing a milestone of his own. He is looking forward to breaking a personal record of 100 wins, a testament to the athlete he is and the work ethic that defines Morris Knolls Wrestling.
The Hockey team entered last year with big shoes to fill after the unforgettable 2023 season where they took home the NJSIAA Public Co-Op state title. Despite the pressure, they put up a hard fight, proving themselves to the state with a record of 13-11-1. Senior Brandon Strunck, who was a junior at the time, spoke proudly of the group, saying, “We came together, and it felt more like a family than teammates.” With their bond driving them, the boys look forward to this upcoming season where they hope to make it back to the “rock”.
“We are winning it all.” Junior Elias Aboushanab describes when asked about the plans for this year’s Bowling season. Having an undefeated 2024 – 2025 season with a record of being 11-0, the Morris Knolls Bowling team had a memorable season last year. With immense efforts from Coach, Eric Bradly, and the team overall, they secured the NJAC-West Division title along with the NJAC-West Division title. Hoping to continue the success, the bowling team plans to move forward focused but ready to have fun in the 2025 – 2026 season.
The Boys and Girls Fencing team excelled but were also challenged in the previous season. Overall, Morris Knolls Fencing placed fourth last year in their division. The boys held a record of 6-4, and the Girls also held a record of 7-4. The team was glad to have had more wins than losses, but they are not stopping there. It is notable how the team sees Fencing often as a mind game. Carrying a good mindset into this year’s season, dedicated Senior Jamie Da Silva expressed, “I want everyone to improve, I want this to keep going. I want Fencing to grow.”
Ultimately, it is safe to say winter athletics at Morris Knolls have been on an impressive rise over the past few seasons. Each team continues proving their competitors wrong, growing as athletes, and soaring like eagles beyond their limits as they chase more titles. With that, as Mr Cirigliano says, this year should be a “Repeat.”
