Freedom Silver Division Sets 2026 Outlook
The Big Central Conference’s Freedom Silver Division will retain its six members for the 2026 campaign, giving each program a chance to build on last season’s results. Manville arrives after a 10‑1 record and a first playoff win in school history, setting high expectations for the new year.
However, the team will face significant graduation losses, including quarterback Josh D'Ambrosio and rusher Isaiah Bennett, who were pivotal in that historic playoff run. Their departures leave large shoes to fill as the squad reshapes its offensive scheme.
Other schools are shaping their lineups around returning talent. Belvidere will bring back sophomore quarterback Jake Enderley and senior Elijah White, both of whom saw extensive playing time a year ago. Bound Brook, Middlesex, South Hunterdon and Dunellen each have their own sets of returning players and developmental goals.
Middlesex, which struggled in 2025, is banking on a young core that could mature quickly, while South Hunterdon has appointed Kyle Hart as its new head coach. Hart’s mandate includes increasing participation numbers and giving the program a more structured foundation.
Dunellen, another youthful squad, expects many of its underclassmen to gain another year of experience, positioning them to be more competitive as the schedule unfolds.
The conference’s slate reflects familiar matchups, with Manville slated to meet Bound Brook, Dunellen, South Hunterdon, Belvidere and Middlesex. Bound Brook’s schedule mirrors this arrangement, as it will also host games against the same set of opponents.