By Rich Chrampanis
MIDDLETOWN – How can you sum up Steve Antonucci’s 200 wins over 24 years, all at Middletown South? The script of the Eagles 27-0 win over Jackson Memorial at the Swamp more or less defined the formula for success. From a tenacious defense that not only kept the opponent at bay but created opportunities with turnovers and sacks, to a rock-solid offensive line that opened holes for the running game, there’s a reason Middletown South is the gold standard when it comes to New Jersey high school football.
“Middletown South football is something unlike anything else,” senior running back Dan Primiano said. “The tradition goes back for years. Standing on that hill it’s a feeling like no other. I get the chills every time running down that hill hearing Hells Bells; it’s something that you won’t get anywhere else.”
Primiano toted the ball 19 times for 185 yards and two touchdowns and the Eagles defense produced four interceptions and five sacks to completely stifle the Jaguars. Brandon Rahill’s 52-yard interception for a score put the exclamation point on a victory that saw the entire Middletown South community celebrate its head coach in style.
I’m at a loss of words to be honest with you,” Antonnucci said. “When I took this job 24 years ago, I never expected to be in this situation. It’s a credit to a lot of great people. My family number one, the administration here and obviously the coaches and players. We’re so blessed with the opportunities that we’ve had here. Being a part of this program is second to none.”
The journey began in 1998 with career win No. 1 against Freehold Township. Along the way, Antonucci has won six state titles, headlined by an amazing run from 2003 through 2006 that saw 43 straight wins and four consecutive sectional crowns.
A selfless leader, Antonucci paused following the win to take pictures with family and soak in the milestone moment. His current players knew they were part of something special.
“It means a lot. We know what this meant to him coming into the game so we worked hard in practice during the week,” Primiano said. “It feels so good to be a part of this. Not many people will experience it throughout the Shore Conference. Just to be a part of this is great.”
No doubt, Antonucci is now more concerned about the 3-0 Eagles getting a fourth straight win this Friday night at Manalapan.
Highlights of the Antonucci Era
Lifetime Record
200-59
Six Sectional Championships
2001, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2015
Coached Five NFL Players
Christian Peter, Jason Peter, Knowshon Moreno,
Scott Simonson, Rick Lovato
Five Undefeated 12-0 Seasons
2001, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2015
43-game win streak (2003-2006)
The article originally appeared in the September 23 – 29, 2021 print edition of The Two River Times.
