Newark Pride: Weequahic Tops Shabazz In Historic HS Football Game

NEWARK, NJ — Although Newark’s Weequahic High School triumphed over longtime rival Malcolm X Shabazz during their historic meeting in the New Jersey High School Championships, the players from both teams are champions, school officials say.

The positive, feel-good energy created during the historic all-Newark matchup on Dec. 3 – a first for the North Jersey, Section 2, Group 1 state championship game – thrilled the city and gave Newarkers a much-deserved dose of local pride.

Weequahic High ultimately prevailed 18 – 8 over their long-time rival after a hard-fought contest, notching their first title win since 2006 and marking a sweet conclusion to an undefeated, 12-win season.

• See related article: Newark HS Football Makes History: Weequahic vs. Shabazz For Championship Game

“On behalf of Newark Public Schools, I want to congratulate both Weequahic High School and Malcolm X. Shabazz on their successful football seasons,” Superintendent Christopher Cerf said. “Our student-athletes and their families should be proud of their remarkable achievements this year… The fact that both teams competing for the title this year call Newark home is truly special and serves as an important reminder of how talented the young people are in our community.”

The history-making game was particularly noteworthy because of the historic and intense rivalry between the two teams, school administrators pointed out.

Weequahic and Shabazz meet every year on Thanksgiving in the “Soul Bowl” and played each other just one week prior to the Dec. 3 game – with Weequahic prevailing 22 – 8.

“The New Jersey High School Championships was historic for the State of New Jersey and the City of Newark,” said Keith Veltre, special assistant in charge of Athletics for Newark Public Schools. “We are so proud of all of our players for such a strong showing at sectionals and for performing so well all season long. These coaches and players truly showed the state what Newark football is all about.”

Photos: Newark Public Schools

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