Hopefuls Put To Test In Quest To Become Manchester Police

MANCHESTER, NJ -- More than 200 men and women put themselves through pull-ups, push-ups, a 1-mile run and squared off in the boxing ring with a stranger, all for the chance to become a Manchester Township police officer.

The physical agility exam is the first part of the testing process for those applying for the positions of Police Officer and Class II Special Officer, Lt. Vincent Manco said. The testing was held Sunday at Manchester Township High School from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

“This is the first step in the process of becoming a member of the best police department in the state,” Manchester Police Chief Lisa Parker said in welcoming the applicants. “I expect each and every one of you to put forth your very best effort. Good luck.”

The exam consisted of pull-ups, push-ups, sit-ups, squat thrusts, and a 1-mile run, Manco said. Applicants who achieved a minimum combined passing score on those tests advanced to the boxing component, which consisted of each applicant boxing against another applicant for a period of one minute.

The test was administered by members of the Manchester Township Police Department, three of whom were certified, NJ Emergency Medical Technicians.

A pedestrian/vehicular safety plan was developed and implemented by Manchester Police Traffic Safety Officer, Antonio Ellis and staffed by Manchester Township Auxiliary Police Officers, Sgt. Miceli, Aux. Milecki, and Aux. Mancini.

The Manchester Township Police Department also received the voluntary assistance of martial arts expert Master Paul Prendergast, owner and lead instructor of Paul Prendergast Karate Schools and a 6th-degree black belt, who was asked to supervise and officiate the boxing, said Manco, who had been one of Prendergast’s students.

Those applicants who successfully completed all phases of the physical agility examination were provided with a study guide to prepare for the written examination that is scheduled for Feb. 8, Manco said.

Manchester Mayor Kenneth Palmer and Manchester Councilman Craig Wallis also attended the testing, he said.

(Applicants do sit-ups and then a 1-mile run at Manchester Township High School on Sunday in the hope of becoming a Manchester police officer. Credit: Manchester Township Police)