2026 Howell Rebels
Head Coach: John Gagliano (29th Season in 2026 / 584-99)
Assistants: Pat Trabucco / Nick Farrar / Walter Bayne (Girls Coach)
Volunteers: Kyle Slendorn / Willie Scott / Kyle Cocozza / Anthony Gagliano / Sean Silverstein / Joe Falco / Zach Bohm / Rich Famularo / Mike Verrochi / Jason Brandl
Section: SJG5 / Division: B-Division / District: 22 / Region: 6

With a large group from last season's team returning, and a very talented freshmen class, the Rebels look like they have the pieces to once again be among the top publics in NJ.

Led by junior Tanner Hodgins, a 2-time State medalist, the upperweights look like they could be a real force for Howell. Hodgins, who recently committed to Oklahoma State, is joined by returning State qualifiers Tyler Going, a junior, and sophomore Timmy O'Rourke. The trio, who were all District Champs last season, are the backbone of the group. They're joined by returning starters Ray Purrelli, who was a win away from Atlantic City last season, Johnny Hurst, who was 4th at Districts, and Julian Del Prete, who was 13-8 for the Rebels and provided a valuable piece that allowed the Rebels to make lineup moves up top.

Down low, junior Luke Johnston returns after a sophomore season in which he led the team in wins with 38, on his way to placing 6th in Atlantic City. He's part of an upperclassmen group that includes junior Shane Maghan, who advanced to AC after taking 3rd at Regions, and seniors Stelian Lisan and Will Stapleton, that can provide veteran leadership to the young talent that looks to make an immediate impact in the lineup. Among them are freshmen Justin Jani, an Intermediate State Champ, and Sean Elliot, who was not only also an Intermediate State Champ, but he won the 119-pound bracket at the NHSCA Middle School Nationals, and placed 3rd at the Super 32.

There are some promising freshmen in the middle, as well, in Ryan Going, Trevor Hodgins (who better get used to me calling him Tanner for the next 4 years), and Brad Little. Little was also an Intermediate Champ, and placed the 3rd at the NHSCA Nationals.

Overall, this looks like it has the potential to be a real return to form team for the Rebels who could very well be in the mix as one of the top public school programs in the state this year.
 

Squan = Manasquan
RV = Rancocas Valley