Athlete of the Week: Tony Manganiello, Gov. Livingston Football

Tony Manganiello has been a mainstay on the Gov. Livingston football team for quite some time, and in his senior season, the 6'2, 250 pound lineman continues to have a major impact.

As a right offensive tackle, this week's Patch Athlete of the Week opens holes for fullback and co-captain Andrew Romeo, who has rushed for over 300 yards this season thanks in big part to Manganiello's key blocks.

As a defensive end, Manganiello leads the team in tackles. In the first three games of the season, he had 23 tackles, six of them for a loss, while posting three sacks along the way.

"He's been an excellent lineman for us," said Highlanders head coach Terry Hanratty. "He's our senior captain. He's been very dominating each game. He's a hard worker. Kids follow him. He's a great leader. He's dedicated. His work ethic is second to none. He's done a great job."

Manganiello put on the shoulder pads thanks to his dad John, who was the Berkeley Heights PAL football president, with Tony getting his start in second grade at the Berkeley Heights clinic, moving up through the system.

"I just love being out there with my teammates," Manganiello noted. "I've been playing with most of these guys for all my life and there's no sport quite like it. You rely on everybody, and the team aspect of football you don't get in any other sport."

Manganiello also wrestles in the winter, and throws javelin in the spring for the track team.

As for the next level, Manganiello is looking at Lehigh University and Villanova, looking to major in accounting or business marketing.

Manganiello gives a lot of credit to his line coach, Gregory Dunkerton, for helping him develop as a player and a person.

"I've always admired him and tried to be like him," said Manganiello. "He's always pushed me to be better. He's always helped me so much with my play. If it wasn't for him, I don't think I'd be playing at the level I'm playing at now."

We asked Manganiello what three athletes he'd like to have over for dinner if he had the choice. He was quick to answer when it came to a chicago Bear Hall of Famer.

"I always wanted to get asked this question actually," said Manganiello. "One would be Walter Payton, just because I admired the way he played and the kind of person he was, and he overcame adversity."

Manganiello also mentioned boxing legend Muhammad Ali and NFL quarterback Tim Tebow. "I feel like the combination would be unbeatable."

He would also like to have his brothers John and Mike with him to meet the "famous, cool people."

And you could say that Manganiello is one of those too, when he takes the field in his hometown of Berkeley Heights.