100 Years of Football in Middletown

Middletown - Alumni football players and cheerleaders from high schools in the Middletown area came together October 25, 2019 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of football being played by a Middletown high school team. The first game occurred on September 16, 1919 when Leonardo High School faced off against an Asbury Park team. The celebration was run by Ray Veth and visitors found themselves surrounded by sports photos and memorabilia from Leonardo High School, Middletown Township High School, Mater Dei Prep, Middletown High School North, and Middletown High School South showcasing the rich history the sport has in town. Current and former coaches came together as well to recount stories of games past. While he may not have been present for that first game, 94 year old and Leonardo High School alumni Paul Frisco was part of the undefeated 1942 football team and was present at the celebration to share his stories from that unforgettable season. After the celebration, Middletown High School North held their home game against Mater Dei Prep. Alumni from the celebration marched onto the field to the cheers of the crowd present in the stands. Mater Dei went on to defeat Middletown High School North that evening 37-0. The players of MiddNorth should take heart in the fact that they still did better than the that first Leonardo High School team who lost to the Asbury Park team, 55 - 0.