Jefferson High School’s football coach Jim Matsakis is navigating a tough recovery after kidney cancer surgery, but his presence remains a constant for the Falcons.
Though on medical leave, Matsakis watches practices through a digital feed, offers real‑time feedback, and leans on veteran assistants such as Bill Stager, Joe Matessich, Mike Cina, Paul Plunkett and Frank Wilpert to keep the program running smoothly.
The team’s legacy is steeped in success: four sectional championships and fifteen playoff berths have cemented its reputation in New Jersey football.
This year the Falcons step into the American Blue division, a move that brings fresh opponents like Mountain Lakes, Wallkill Valley, Lakeland, Newton, Vernon, Morris Catholic, Hackettstown and Verona onto the schedule.
Seven of the eleven starters return, including quarterback Connor Consiglio and running back Chris Connolly, while versatile newcomer Eric Hokenberg, once a standout basketball player, has already made an impact at quarterback. The lineup also showcases linebacker Braedan Cummings, defensive back Caedan Consiglio, wide receiver Zach Smith, tight end Jack Reed, defensive lineman Remy Lighty and offensive back Joe DeGennaro.
A New Chapter for the Falcons
With the support of his staff and a roster brimming with experience, Matsakis remains optimistic about the team’s prospects despite the challenges of the previous season.
The upcoming season promises a blend of tradition and renewal, as the Falcons aim to add another chapter to their storied history.