The 2026 Shore Conference Class C South boys soccer division promises a tightly contested race as five programs — Barnegat, Donovan Catholic, Pinelands, Lakewood and New Egypt — battle for the championship. Each squad brings a blend of seasoned seniors and emerging talent, setting the stage for a season that could reshape the local soccer landscape.
Barnegat enters the campaign as the clear favorite after a dominant performance in recent years. The team's top contender status rests on the shoulders of senior midfielder Nate Scisco, who burst onto the scene as a sophomore with 13 goals and continues to anchor the midfield. Complemented by a solid defensive core that includes returning starters Connor Feeney in goal and Matt Arbasetti on defense, Barnegat's experience and depth position it to break a 21‑year title drought.
Donovan Catholic, seeking to snap an 11‑year stretch without a winning record, will lean on returning seniors Charlie Yuro and Dan Zaic, both honored on the all‑division team. With only three starters lost from last season, the team hopes to exceed four wins and build momentum toward its first division title in years.
Pinelands, traditionally a lower‑seed program, looks to climb out of the bottom spot in Class B South. Returning seniors Max Taurgrasso and Acim Savich headline a defense that will be guarded by sophomore forward Steven Amato, projected to be the team's leading scorer. The combination of veteran leadership and youthful firepower could turn the Piners into a surprise contender.
Lakewood makes the jump from Class B South and brings a wealth of experience to the division. Veterans Christian Rodriguez and Johan Rodriguez headline the attack, while Jafeth Gonzales provides stability between the posts. The team aims to capture its first division championship in two decades, a goal that feels within reach given its seasoned roster.
New Egypt, a Group I program, faces unique challenges but remains competitive. Key returnees Nico Ferriolo, Wyatt Burgess and Dylan Rotundo give the team a balanced mix of experience and youth. Goalkeeper Caden Adelung anchors the backline, and the squad hopes to leverage its depth to punch above its weight in the division.
Projected Starting Lineups
Barnegat's projected starting XI features Connor Feeney in goal, Matt Arbasetti and a defensive line anchored by returning starters, with Nate Scisco orchestrating play in midfield. Donovan Catholic will start Charlie Yuro up front and Connor Ryan between the posts, while Pinelands will rely on Max Taurgrasso in defense and Michael Quintenz in goal. Lakewood's attack will be led by Christian Rodriguez, supported by Jafeth Gonzales in goal, and New Egypt will field Caden Adelung as goalkeeper with Nico Ferriolo leading the line.
The overall outlook for the Class C South division suggests it may be one of the weaker divisions across the Shore Conference, yet last season's surprising performances hint at the potential for dangerous upsets. With Barnegat projected to finish first, the race for the remaining spots will likely hinge on the ability of Donovan Catholic, Pinelands, Lakewood and New Egypt to capitalize on their respective strengths and close the gap.