VERNON TOWNSHIP, N.J. (Sussex County) — The Vernon Township High School girls track and field team captured its second consecutive NJAC West championship this season, capping off a year defined by depth, strong performances and team-wide contributions.
School officials said the 2026 championship reflected months of preparation and a season-long commitment from athletes and coaches alike.
“Repeating as NJAC West Champions is a culmination of the hard work the team has put in all season,” coaches James Saganiec and Brian McCarthy said. “Winning this meet was one of the girls’ preseason goals, and it was rewarding to see them achieve it. It reinforces that they will be rewarded for their hard work.”
Several athletes turned in standout performances during the championship meet.
Freshmen Isabella Kuzicki and Jaliann Castillo finished first and second in the 800-meter run, while senior Juliette Jalbert won the high jump title.
In the 200-meter dash, sophomore Samantha Janus placed first, senior Monica Curry finished second and senior Sophia Haw placed fifth.
Kuzicki and Haw also earned first- and second-place finishes in the 400-meter run, helping Vernon secure valuable team points.
Coaches credited the team’s success to strong competition during practices and the depth of athletes competing across multiple events.
“Our team is very talented and has depth in many events,” the coaching staff said. “Our athletes push each other and expect a high level of effort and competition from one another every day in practice. This philosophy gives our athletes a level of confidence that is essential for success.”
The coaching staff also praised the development of younger athletes and the leadership provided by returning varsity competitors throughout the season.
“We stress the importance of personal bests at every meet,” the coaching staff said. “Our returning varsity athletes have been great role models for our new athletes, and it has been great watching our younger athletes improve and gain confidence as varsity athletes.”
With athletes contributing across all grade levels, coaches said the program is positioned for continued success in the future.
“The way in which we won this championship shows a potential for continued growth and success of our program,” the coaching staff said. “This win was a total team effort from athletes of all grades.”
The Vernon Township School District congratulated the athletes and coaching staff for representing the school community throughout the championship season.
