2026 Shore Conference Boys Soccer Class A South Preview
The 2026 Shore Conference boys soccer season in the Class A South division is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in recent memory, with a mix of established powerhouses and hungry newcomers.
Toms River East enters the campaign as the reigning outright champions, having captured the title in 2025 for the first time in 14 years, setting the stage for a battle with longtime rivals Toms River North, who have dominated the division with five consecutive crowns from 2020 through 2024.
Southern Regional, the two‑time defending Group IV champions, also remain a formidable force, while Point Pleasant Boro and Brick Memorial have each shown steady improvement, adding depth and intrigue to the schedule.
Key storylines revolve around player movement and roster changes. Toms River East will rely on returning All‑Division standouts Evan Cappetta and Sam Los, but must replace leading scorer Aiden Reis and midfielder Aiden Corapi, creating both opportunity and uncertainty.
Meanwhile, Toms River North will shift senior Chris Ruggiero to striker and count on midfield stability from Manuele Lubrano and Reiley Woodman, aiming to extend their championship streak despite a 8‑8‑5 record in 2025 and a narrow goal differential.
Southern’s attack will be led by sophomore sensation Michael King, complemented by finisher Jaxson Simon, while the midfield boasts a blend of juniors Juan Victoria, George Katsianis, Gavin Beck and freshman Landon Nacarlo, with a three‑way competition for the goalkeeper spot.
Point Pleasant Boro’s dramatic turnaround from a 1‑6‑1 start in 2024 to a 12‑1‑1 record before the NJSIAA Central Jersey Group II quarterfinal highlights their resilience, and Brick Memorial’s ascent to Class B South, where they captured a second straight division title with a perfect 5‑0 record, signals a shifting balance in Ocean County soccer.
As Toms River East, Toms River North and Southern vie for supremacy, the county’s historic rivalry between Toms River South and Toms River North — alternating as top teams from 2013 to 2024 — adds another layer of anticipation, promising fans a season filled with high‑stakes matches and dramatic turnarounds.