North Brunswick poses for a photo at Big Central Media Day on October 15, 2023 at Iron Peak Sports & Events in Hillsborough. From left to right, Payton Wieczerzak, head coach Mike Cipot, Jack Garbolino, and Samaad Hicks. (Photo: Wm. Hauser Photography/Big Central Conference)
The Raiders have had household names and role players since Mike Cipot took over as head coach in 2017. They have never had a losing season. But this is the year they hope they can add one more thing to the list of successes North Brunswick football has had for the past six years: a championship.
Sure, some significant pieces may be gone, like three-year starting quarterback Frankie Garbolino, defensive back Zamir Dahud and speedster receiver Alani Ajigbotosho.
But there are plenty of reasons to be optimistic. There’s another Garbolino – Jack – who remains. The junior linebacker/wide receiver is back, along with transfer Samaad Hicks who comes in from neighboring New Brunswick.
Their biggest challenge in the division may be Sayreville, which by all accounts this preseason has looked very good, followed by Edison, which is in a similar situation to North Brunswick, losing a veteran QB and some other key skill players.
But the constant in North Brunswick is head coach Mike Cipot, who seemingly continues to churn out solid seasons, despite question marks after graduation losses.
Click below to hear Mike Pavlichko talk with Raiders’ head coach Mike Cipot, along with players Jack Garbolino, Samaad Hicks, and Payton Wieczerzak:
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