Joe LaSala talks his exit from Woodbridge, building lifelong connections with Barrons

The news began circulating less than a week ago, making the rounds privately at first, then publicly on social media as current and former players chipped in their praise, plaudits, sadness and disappointment.

By Wednesday morning, it was out: Joe LaSala had resigned at Woodbridge after six seasons. It was news that came as a shock to many.

The 34-year-old was 37-20 during his tenure, taking Woodbridge all the way to the North Jersey, Section 1, Group 4 title game in 2019. Their run ended there, losing to Northern Highlands, which won its first of three straight sectional titles.

And even when the Barrons weren’t making a championship game, LaSala’s teams were always competitive. In the COVID-shortened 2020 season, Woodbridge faced off against Somerville in a battle of undefeated teams in the first week of post-season pods, and it was a “must attend” event, even if crowds were still limited to 1,500 fans at that point in the pandemic.

Still, to read the comments from players – present and past – on social media, clearly LaSala valued more than wins and losses during his time in red and black, at a rival to his alma mater, Colonia.

Rumors swirled about how and why it could all happen, but LaSala – in a one-on-one interview with Central Jersey Sports Radio – says ultimately, it was all his decision, and it was the right time.

And he’s looking forward to spending more time with his 15-month-old daughter Olivia and his wife Olivia. Now, who could blame him for that?

LaSala says he takes away a lot of memories, and a lot of friendships, whether with former or current players, still keeping in touch with many. He’ll surely surface somewhere else, at some point. Any program would be lucky to have someone as dedicated.

But for now, he says, he’ll surely enjoy time with his family.

Click below to listen to Central Jersey Sports Radio’s Mike Pavlichko talk with Joe LaSala: