Legacy on the Field: The Heroes Behind NJ's Lacrosse Division Names

Understanding the Legacy

When we think of the competitive landscape in North Jersey lacrosse, it's easy to get lost in statistics: goals scored, assists, power rankings. But to truly appreciate what makes this sport thrive, we must look deeper at the stories behind the names of the present-day divisions. Each name serves as a tribute to those who paved the way, instilling values and competitive spirit that live on in players today.

The Names in North Jersey Lacrosse

In North Jersey, the boys lacrosse divisions are not just lines on a schedule; they are tributes to the pioneers who shaped the sport into what it is today. Let's explore these pivotal figures behind the names:

Gibbs Division

Current members: Bergen Catholic, Chatham, Don Bosco, Mountain Lakes, Northern Highlands, Ridgewood

The Gibbs Division carries the name of Gil Gibbs, the legendary Montclair coach whose record speaks for itself—177 wins against just 35 losses in a 13-year span, accompanied by multiple championships. His commitment to excellence and mentorship set the bar high in New Jersey lacrosse.

“Gibbs built a lacrosse dynasty at Montclair, achieving success while nurturing young talent, a legacy that lives on today.”

Jacobson Division

Current members: Glen Rock, Mahwah, Pascack Valley, Ramsey, St. Joseph, Tenafly, Wayne Valley

Following closely is the Jacobson Division, honoring Steve Jacobson, who amassed over 400 wins across various high schools. His methods turned teams into powerhouses, with Ridgewood's back-to-back state championships in 1990 and 1991 being highlights of his career.

Curcio Division

Current members: Demarest, Old Tappan, Paramus, Pascack Hills, Pequannock, River Dell, Wayne Hills, Westwood

The Curcio Division signifies excellence through Robert Curcio's tenure at Columbia High School. His dedication led to five division championships and a solid 116-34 record, showing how impactful one individual can be in a team's narrative.

Cullen Division

Current members: DePaul, Dwight-Englewood, Fair Lawn, Indian Hills, Lakeland, Park Ridge/Emerson, Passaic Tech, Rutherford

Named for Tim Cullen, a respected official and Hall of Famer, this division reminds us that the game thrives not only on players but also on the dedicated officials shaping its integrity. Cullen earned accolades for his influence and remains a key figure in the sport's history.

Kirst Division

Current members: Eastern Christian, Lyndhurst/North Arlington, Newark East Side, Paramus Catholic, Passaic Valley, Saddle Brook, Waldwick, Weehawken/Hoboken

The Kirst Division honors Kyle Kirst, a three-decade beacon in New Jersey lacrosse. A standout at Rutgers, Kirst's shift from player to coach showcases his multifaceted influence on the sport. Following his untimely death, his legacy lives on through the Kirst Cup, established by his peers as a tribute to his contributions.

Dowling Division

Current members: Bergen Tech, Clifton, Hawthorne, Morris Catholic, North Warren/Belvidere, Pompton Lakes, Union Catholic, West Orange

Sean Dowling shaped the lacquered path of lacrosse in New Jersey as the former president of the New Jersey Interscholastic Lacrosse League. His influence reverberates through the Dowling Division, which highlights the importance of leadership and vision in sports.

Pooley Division

Current members: Delaware Valley, Kittatinny, Lenape Valley, Morris Hills, Mount Olive, Newton, Vernon, West Milford

Dave Pooley led the charge for boys lacrosse at West Morris and Mendham, contributing significantly by founding the Morris County Tournament. His devotion and experience extend beyond coaching into military service, creating a rich legacy.

Bianchi Division

Current members: Columbia, Glen Ridge, Livingston, Madison, Montclair Kimberley, New Providence, St. Peter's Prep, West Essex

Remembering Bob Bianchi, a dual All-American and Hall of Famer, symbolizes the profound intersection of academic excellence and athletic achievement. His premature death in a helicopter crash turned a promising future into a lasting memory.

Fitch-Pitt Division

Current members: Delbarton, Montclair, Pope John, Seton Hall Prep, Summit, Westfield

The Fitch-Pitt Division embodies a lineage of coaching excellence with figures like Fred Fitch, who led Rutgers for over two decades, and Larry Pitt, involved in officiating. Together, they represent the solid groundwork for future generations.

Kimber Division

Current members: Cranford, Gov. Livingston, Johnson, Hanover Park/Whippany Park, Millburn, Morristown‑Beard, Newark Academy, Oratory Prep, Verona

Warren Kimber's legacy is one that speaks to the importance of governance in sports officiating, ensuring that the game remains fair, structured, and thriving. His commitment endures in the hearts of those he influenced.

Klank Division

Current members: Boonton, Cedar Grove, Dayton, High Point/Wallkill Valley, Hackettstown, Nutley

William “Noll” Klank's commitment to sports reflects a life dedicated to nurturing young talent. His passion for teaching extends beyond the field, carrying lessons into futures.

Rizk Division

Current members: Jefferson, Kinnelon, Mendham, Montville, Morristown, Parsippany Hills/Parsippany, Roxbury, Voorhees

Richard Rizk, an undeniable pioneer in NJ lacrosse, expanded the sport from its infancy, building a strong legacy filled with achievement and opportunity for the next generation.

Waterman Division

Current members: Bernards, Caldwell, Morris Knolls, Randolph, Scotch Plains‑Fanwood, Sparta, Warren Hills, West Morris

Hawley Waterman's impact in establishing various sports programs emphasizes the endless possibilities that come with dedication and hard work, leaving a legacy that inspires future generations.

The Heroes Behind the Game

As we reflect on these remarkable figures, it becomes clear that every game played under the banner of these divisions carries with it a piece of the past, a respect for those who forged the path ahead. The names you see on your schedules are not just there for show; they embody the spirit, courage, and dedication of those who shaped the sport.

We owe it to ourselves, our teams, and our futures to acknowledge these influences, remembering that every time that whistle blows, we are playing a part in a deeper narrative—a narrative of legacy, passion, and love for the game.