As the 2025-2026 school year came to a close, what began as Donovan Catholic High School's annual End-of-the-Year Faculty & Staff BBQ turned into a heartfelt surprise retirement celebration honoring two extraordinary members of the Griffin family.

Faculty, staff, and administrators gathered to recognize the remarkable careers and lasting contributions of Ms. Christine Mooney and Mrs. Dawn Watson, whose combined 55 years of service have left an indelible mark on the Donovan Catholic community.

After 35 years of dedicated service, Ms. Christine Mooney is retiring from Donovan Catholic. Throughout her career, she inspired generations of students as a French teacher, sharing her passion for language, culture, and learning. Beyond the classroom, Ms. Mooney served as yearbook advisor and embraced numerous leadership roles that helped shape the student experience. Her commitment to education, mentorship, and the Griffin spirit has touched countless lives and helped strengthen the Donovan Catholic community for more than three decades.

Mrs. Dawn Watson is retiring after 20 years of dedicated service as an Administrative Assistant in the school's main office. Throughout her time at Donovan Catholic, she has been a welcoming and familiar presence for students, families, faculty, staff, and visitors alike. Known for her kindness, professionalism, and unwavering support, Mrs. Watson played an essential role in the daily life of the school and helped create the warm, family atmosphere that defines the Donovan Catholic experience.

During the celebration, colleagues reflected on the many ways both women have contributed to the school's mission and legacy. Their years of dedication, leadership, and service have made a lasting impact that will continue to be felt for generations to come.

Donovan Catholic extends its deepest gratitude to Ms. Mooney and Mrs. Watson for their commitment to the Griffin community and wishes them both happiness, health, and fulfillment in their retirement.

Congratulations, Christine and Dawn, on your well-earned retirement. Once a Griffin, always a Griffin!

At Donovan Catholic, our students pursue their passions both inside and outside the classroom and junior Caylee Navas is proving that hard work and determination can take you around the world.

Just a few weeks ago, Navas traveled to Warsaw, Poland, where she represented Team USA at the International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) Bench Press World Championships. Competing in the 57kg Sub-Junior Equipped Bench Press Division, Navas earned a bronze medal, finishing as the third-ranked athlete in the world in her division.

The achievement came after years of dedication to the sport and a successful qualification process through national-level competition. While athletes from Finland and Ukraine captured the gold and silver medals, Navas proudly stood on the podium representing the United States on one of powerlifting's biggest stages.

For Navas, however, the experience was about much more than winning a medal. She says, "Even if I didn't place, I was still so grateful for the opportunity to be there and represent Team USA.”

The trip was especially memorable because it marked another major milestone as it was Caylee’s first time traveling outside of the United States.

Navas credits much of her success to the unwavering support of her father, who has coached and trained her throughout her powerlifting journey. She also expressed deep gratitude for the team at Atlantic City Barbell, whose guidance, mentorship, and encouragement have played a significant role in her development as an athlete. Together, she says, they have helped her tremendously in reaching the world stage.

Balancing academics with the demands of training and competition requires discipline, commitment, and perseverance, qualities that Navas demonstrates every day.

Now ranked among the best young powerlifters in the world, she is already looking ahead to her next challenge. After spending the summer training, Navas plans to return to competition this fall as she continues pursuing her goals in the sport.

Looking even further into the future, Navas hopes to turn her passion into a career as a Strength and Conditioning Coach, helping athletes reach their full potential through training, mentorship, and hard work.

Whether stepping onto an international stage for the first time or traveling across the world to represent her country, Navas approaches each experience with gratitude and determination, a mindset that has already taken her farther than most could imagine.

Congratulations to Caylee on this incredible accomplishment. The entire Donovan Catholic community is proud to celebrate her success and looks forward to following her journey in the years ahead.

Dear Donovan Catholic Friends and Family,

It has truly been a wonderful year under the collaborative and tireless work of Mr. Darryl Heale who graciously accepted the offer to step into the role of Interim Principal for the 2025-2026 school year. Immediately, Mr. Heale along with Vice Principal Mrs. Gleinig and other key individuals in our Donovan Catholic community came together in a transparent, beautiful way, setting a positive tone and boosting morale on campus among all staff and students.

I am writing to you today to share the news that Mr. Heale, who was originally hired a year and a half ago as Vice Principal, will be returning to that position for the 2026-2027 school year, as the new Principal of Donovan Catholic High School steps into the role. I am so grateful to Mr. Heale for his leadership and graciously serving our Donovan community.

After a thoughtful and prayerful process, and after receiving counsel from the Diocese of Trenton’s Office of Catholic Schools, I am pleased to share that Mrs. Kimberly Gleinig will be the new Principal of Donovan Catholic High School. Mrs. Gleinig's connection to Donovan spans a lifetime. From her days as a student at St. Joseph Grade School and a graduate of Monsignor Donovan High School's Class of 2008, to her service as a teacher, Student Life Coordinator, Vice Principal, and now Principal, Donovan has always been her home. Mrs. Gleinig represents the perfect blend of Griffin tradition and innovation. As an alumna and dedicated leader, she understands what makes Donovan such a special place while bringing the vision and commitment needed to lead our school into the future. She believes deeply in our mission and in the transformative power of Catholic education.

I am confident that under her leadership, Donovan Catholic will continue to thrive as Ocean County's premier Catholic high school — rich in tradition, committed to modern excellence and grounded in faith. Please join me in congratulating Mrs. Kimberly Gleinig as the next Principal of Donovan Catholic High School! May God continue to bless Donovan Catholic, our students, our families, and our future.

 

Sincerely,

Very Reverend G Scott Shaffer V.F.

 

Director of Donovan Catholic High School

The Donovan Catholic Softball program continues to shine as several players and coaches earned prestigious Shore Conference Coaches Association All Division Freedom recognitions following an outstanding season.

Leading the way was Head Coach Debbie Schwartz, who was named the Shore Conference Coaches Association All Division Freedom Coach of the Year in recognition of her leadership, dedication, and the continued success of the Griffins softball program.

Gylian Hixenbaugh earned Pitcher of the Year honors after an impressive season in the circle, showcasing dominance, consistency, and determination throughout the year.

Bella Maria was recognized as Player of the Year and also received Outfielders Recognition for her exceptional all-around performance and leadership on the field.

Additional honors included:

  • Caroline Kopp – Utility Player Recognition
  • Isabella Cino – Infielders Recognition
  • Jaelynn Nunez – Catchers Recognition
  • Juliana Vignets – Outfielders Recognition

These accomplishments are a reflection of the hard work, commitment, and team-first mentality displayed by Donovan Catholic Softball all season long. The Griffins continue to set the standard both on and off the field, representing Donovan Catholic with pride, determination, and excellence.

Congratulations to Coach Schwartz and all of our student-athletes on these well-deserved honors. Griffin Nation is proud of you!

The Donovan Catholic community gathered together for its Closing School Liturgy, a beautiful and faith-filled celebration marking the conclusion of the 2025–2026 school year. The liturgy served as a meaningful reminder of the strong Catholic identity and sense of community that continue to define life at Donovan Catholic High School.

During the Mass, six students publicly professed their faith before the entire student body and officially became Catholic. Congratulations to Casey Davenport, Tyler Hunter, Aidan Kelly, Benjamin Lubin, Argelis Pena, and Grant Sileo on this significant milestone in their spiritual journeys.

The ceremony was a powerful witness to faith, courage, and personal growth, inspiring all in attendance as the school year came to a close united in prayer and community.

Donovan Catholic extends a heartfelt thank you to Mr. Ball, Campus Minister, for his dedication and guidance in working closely with these students throughout the year as they prepared for this special moment. The school also thanks Fr. Scott and Fr. Bridges for celebrating the liturgy and supporting the spiritual life of the Donovan Catholic community.

As the Griffins look ahead to summer and the upcoming school year, this celebration stands as a reminder that faith remains at the heart of the Donovan Catholic experience.

Dr. Joseph Tauro is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon based in Toms River, New Jersey, where he cares for individuals and families throughout the community. For more than 30 years, he has also been a dedicated supporter of the St. Joseph Grade School and Donovan Catholic High School communities.

He has remained a constant presence, supporting students and educational opportunities over time.

For families in the Toms River area, that consistency reflects something deeper—a physician who has been part of the same community many students grow up in.

Supporting Local Toms River Families On and Off the Field 

Many students at St. Joseph and Donovan Catholic are active in sports like soccer, basketball, and football. For families, that often means balancing busy schedules and the unexpected moments that come with them. In those situations, it helps to have someone connected to the school community. Someone who has been there for years and is familiar to local families.

Dr. Tauro’s work in orthopedics includes the treatment of:

  • Shoulder conditions
  • Sports-related injuries
  • Degenerative joint conditions
  • Knee and hip procedures
  • Joint preservation and cartilage care

Leadership in Arthroscopic Orthopedic Education and Innovation

Dr. Tauro’s work extends beyond patient care. He is a Clinical Professor of Orthopedic Surgery at New Jersey Medical School, where he helps train future surgeons.

He also serves as a Master Instructor and Board Member of the Arthroscopy Association of North America (AANA), contributing to the advancement of orthopedic techniques.

His current work includes:

A Trusted Presence in the Community

Dr. Tauro’s experience in both clinical care and surgical education has led to caring for patients from across the region and influenced education across the world. 

Care Through AOSMI in Toms River and Beyond

Dr. Tauro provides care through Advanced Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Institute (AOSMI), a multi-location orthopedic practice serving patients across New Jersey. Patients have access to a broader network of orthopedic and rehabilitation care across multiple locations.

Learn More

For families in the Toms River community, Dr. Tauro remains a familiar and accessible resource when care is needed. To Request an Appointment with Dr. Joseph Tauro, call 732-341-6226.

Donovan Catholic High School is pleased to announce the Valedictorian and Salutatorian for the Class of 2026. Valedictorian Julian Miles L. Panerio and Salutatorian Sophia Pasqua have been recognized for their exceptional academic achievement, leadership, character, and commitment to their faith throughout their time at Donovan Catholic. As they prepare to graduate and begin exciting new chapters, we proudly celebrate the impact they have made on our school community and all they have accomplished both inside and outside of the classroom.
 

Julian Miles L. Panerio has earned the distinction of Valedictorian for the Class of 2026 through his outstanding academic performance, perseverance, and dedication to excellence. Miles will attend Washington University in St. Louis, where he plans to study Biochemistry with a focus on genetics and the human body. He plans to pursue a career in medicine and earn a Ph.D. in the future.

Miles’ journey to Donovan Catholic is one rooted in courage, faith, and resilience. In 2023, he moved to the United States from the Philippines and transferred to Donovan Catholic during that same year.

“I got to Donovan the same year I arrived in America,” Miles shared. “Donovan gave me a community I was welcomed into and one I can stick with after I graduate.”

Through faith, hard work, and the support of the Donovan Catholic community, Miles quickly became a respected and accomplished student whose kindness and determination inspired those around him. His story reflects the welcoming spirit and Catholic values that define Donovan Catholic.

Sophia Pasqua, named Salutatorian of the Class of 2026, will continue her academic journey at Lehigh University in the prestigious Integrated Engineering and Arts and Sciences (IDEAS) Honors Program, a four-year interdisciplinary program culminating in a Bachelor of Science degree. Sophia plans to pursue opportunities in engineering, STEM, and medical-related fields.

Throughout her time at Donovan Catholic, Sophia has been recognized not only for her academic success, but also for her compassion, perseverance, and gratitude toward those who supported her along the way.

“I want to thank my teachers, who are my biggest support system, and all of the staff and counselors,” Sophia shared. Sophia says that anytime she felt uncertain or stressed throughout her journey, the Donovan Catholic community was there to support, encourage, and guide her every step of the way.

Sophia’s appreciation for the people who guided her reflects the close-knit and faith-filled environment that makes Donovan Catholic so special. Her accomplishments are a testament to her dedication, character, and the unwavering support system that surrounded her throughout high school.

As a Catholic school community, we recognize that the achievements of Miles and Sophia are not measured solely by grades or accolades, but by the faith, integrity, humility, and service they demonstrated during their time at Donovan Catholic High School. Their leadership and example have inspired fellow students, faculty, and staff alike.

We congratulate Julian Miles L. Panerio and Sophia Pasqua on this incredible honor and pray that God continues to guide them as they begin the next chapter of their journeys. The entire Donovan Catholic family is proud of all they have accomplished, and we wish them continued success, happiness, and blessings in the years ahead.

As graduation approaches, Donovan Catholic High School proudly celebrates the remarkable accomplishments of the Class of 2026, a class defined by ambition, leadership, resilience, faith, and an unwavering commitment to excellence both inside and outside of the classroom.

The Class of 2026 has earned acceptances to more than 160 colleges and universities across 29 states. In addition, the class has collectively been offered more than $21,372,150.00 in scholarship awards for post-secondary education opportunities.

From nationally ranked research universities and highly selective institutions to prestigious Catholic universities, STEM-focused programs, conservatories, Division I athletic schools, and healthcare pathways, Donovan Catholic students continue to make their mark on the national stage.

Students earned acceptances to some of the nation’s most competitive colleges and universities, including institutions with single-digit and sub-20% acceptance rates. Members of the Class of 2026 will continue their journeys at universities such as Wake Forest University, Villanova University, New York University, Tulane University, Washington University in St. Louis, Stevens Institute of Technology, Northeastern University, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Clemson University, Syracuse University, Providence College, Virginia Tech, The Ohio State University, and many more.

This graduating class demonstrated extraordinary academic versatility and a wide range of career aspirations. Many students will pursue degrees in healthcare and medical-related fields including nursing, pharmacy, physical therapy, exercise science, biology, biochemistry, pre-med, veterinary sciences, and health administration. Others will continue studies in engineering, mathematics, finance, business administration, entrepreneurship, education, psychology, communications, political science, performing arts, law, and the humanities.

The Class of 2026 also reflects the growing strength of Donovan Catholic’s commitment to STEM education, innovation, and career readiness. Students earned acceptances into highly respected engineering and technology programs while others committed to nationally recognized business schools, honors programs, and specialized academic pathways.

Athletics also played a major role in the success of this graduating class, with 17 student-athletes continuing their academic and athletic careers at the collegiate level. From football and softball to other competitive sports, these Griffins will continue to represent Donovan Catholic on college campuses across the country.

The accomplishments of the Class of 2026 extend far beyond academics. Throughout their time on Hooper Avenue, these students have contributed to the Donovan Catholic community through leadership, faith formation, service, athletics, fine arts, campus ministry, clubs, volunteerism, and school spirit. Their legacy can be seen in classrooms, on stages, on athletic fields, and throughout the halls of the school community they helped shape.

As the school prepares to celebrate commencement, Donovan Catholic recognizes not only the awards, scholarships, and acceptances earned by this class, but also the character, compassion, and perseverance that define them.

The Donovan Catholic community congratulates the Class of 2026 and looks forward to watching these graduates continue to achieve great things in the years ahead. Once a Griffin, always a Griffin!
   
 

 

Recently, Kai Pritchard DCHS '26 received the 2026 Vince Lombardi Award at the 54th Annual Vince Lombardi Awards Banquet hosted by the Shore Football Coaches Foundation. Selected following the recommendation of Head Coach Dan Curcione, Kai earned this prestigious recognition for his outstanding achievements as a lineman and his dedication to Donovan Catholic Football. 
 
The annual event honors the top football linemen from high schools throughout Monmouth and Ocean Counties. Kai’s leadership, toughness, work ethic, and commitment on and off the field have made the entire Griffin community incredibly proud. 
 
Congratulations, Kai, on this outstanding accomplishment!
Inspired by his grandmother, Dalton Bassinder didn’t pick up a tennis racket until just before his freshman year...but in only three years, he has grown into Donovan Catholic’s first singles player. Through hard work, dedicated training, and a commitment to improving both mentally and physically, the junior has quickly developed into one of the team’s top competitors. With a strong season already underway and continued growth ahead, Bassinder’s journey is just getting started. 
 
An article "Donovan Catholic’s Bassinder has become a solid first singles tennis player in just a few years" was originally published by Rich Fisher, Contributing Editor of The Monitor. Click here to read the full story.

Hello Future Griffins,

Thank you for your interest in Donovan Catholic High School. We are excited to welcome prospective members of the Class of 2031 and invite you to begin your admissions journey by completing the application below.

Questions? Our Admissions Team is here to make the process smooth, informative, and exciting for your family. If you have any questions or need assistance along the way, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at admissions@donovancatholic.org or call our Admissions Office today 732-349-8801 x2429

Your journey starts here; apply to become a Griffin!

 

APPLY NOW:

Please fill out and submit the following form to apply for Donovan Catholic High School's Class of 2031. Please note: This form is only for prospective Grade 9 students only. All transfer students must complete the Transfer Student Application. 

Apply Now!  

 

We look forward to reviewing your application. Once your application has been submitted, you're officially on your way to becoming a Griffin. Our Admissions Team will be in touch beginning in Fall 2027 with important updates and next steps as we move through the admissions process. Until then, simply submitting your application is all you need to do to begin your Donovan Catholic journey.

 

CLASS OF 2031: JOIN US FOR SUMMER TOURING DAYS!

 

Register Today For A Summer Touring Day

 

Debbie Schwartz reached two milestones in one day on Saturday April 25th, 2026. 

 

 In the morning, she became just the second softball coach in state history with 800 career wins. In the afternoon, she captured her 300th victory as the head coach of Donovan Catholic.
 The Griffins handed Schwartz her 800th win with a 12-1 mercy-rule victory over Gloucester County Institute of Technology in the opening round of the South Jersey Classic at St. Joseph (Hamm.).
Congratulations Coach! You Make A Difference! 
This article was originally published on nj.com. Article credit to Bill Evans of nj.com

On Sunday, April 19, the Senior Citizen Prom made its grand return to Donovan Catholic High School, welcoming hundreds of seniors from our local community for a truly unforgettable day.

Organized by our dedicated Student Council and National Honor Society, the event was filled with music, laughter, dancing, and meaningful connections across generations. It was a beautiful celebration of joy, dignity, and togetherness, with our students proudly living out Donovan’s mission of love and service to others in every interaction.

One of the most touching reflections came from this year’s Senior Citizen Prom King and Queen, Joan Rittgers and Peter Christo, who shared their heartfelt gratitude following the event. From their seats at the “Philadelphia” table, they described the experience as “like sitting on the 50-yard line of a Super Bowl,” watching a room full of smiling faces, laughter, and a packed dance floor. They were especially moved by the way our students created a safe and supportive environment, ensuring every guest could fully enjoy the celebration.

They also reflected on the word “Respect,” displayed on the cafeteria wall, noting how every student embodied kindness, care, and compassion throughout the day. In their words, our students made sure that those “in the twilight of their lives” experienced something truly special and memorable.

In a beautiful and unexpected moment, Joan and Peter were named the 2026 Senior Citizen Prom King and Queen — an honor they described as a treasured memory. So inspired by the experience, they have even expressed their desire to contribute to a fund supporting next year’s event, ensuring this meaningful tradition continues.

A heartfelt thank you to Mrs. Mattsson and Mrs. Brown for their incredible leadership, as well as to all who donated and our many student volunteers who gave their time and energy to make this day so special.

This was more than just a prom — it was a powerful reminder of the impact of community, compassion, and Griffin pride.

Congratulations to Adriana B. and Caroline M. who have been chosen for the Delegate positions for the 2026 Girls State program representing Unit 129 American Legion Auxiliary. 

Both students completed the application and interview process and will participate in the Girls State Program this summer at Georgian Court University.

Girls State is a practical application of Americanism and good citizenship training to students that have completed their Junior year of High School. It will afford them an opportunity to live together as self-governing citizens and to inform them about the duties, privileges, rights and responsibilities of American Citizenship. They will learn government at the municipal, county and state level, as it exists in New Jersey today.

Congratulations Adriana and Caroline! You Make Donovan Proud.

Donovan Catholic High School is excited to invite prospective students and their families to its Spring Open House on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, from 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM.

This event is a great opportunity for families to explore all that Donovan Catholic has to offer. Guests will enjoy guided tours of our campus, meet dedicated faculty and staff, and learn more about our academic programs, extracurricular opportunities, and vibrant school community.

From our Bloomberg Finance Lab and Robotics Lab to our award-winning Performing Arts and competitive athletic programs, Donovan Catholic provides students with countless opportunities to grow, lead, and succeed. Families will also have the chance to speak with current students and administrators to gain a firsthand look at the Donovan experience.

Whether you are considering transferring or beginning your high school journey, we welcome you to discover what makes Donovan Catholic a place where students thrive.

Spots are limited, and early registration is encouraged.
Click here to register

 

We look forward to welcoming you to campus and showing you how It Makes A Difference at Donovan Catholic.

 

 

Congratulations to Donovan Catholic’s Jazz Choir for being selected for Outstanding Achievement in Small Vocal at the 2026 Teen Arts Festival. This prestigious recognition highlights the group’s exceptional talent, dedication, and musical excellence.

As a result of this achievement, the Jazz Choir has been invited to represent Ocean County at the New Jersey State Teen Arts Festival. This honor places them among the top student performers in the state and reflects the strength of Donovan Catholic’s performing arts program.

We are incredibly proud of our students for this accomplishment and look forward to cheering them on as they continue to showcase their talents at the state level. 

 

Donovan Catholic High School is pleased to announce a significant enhancement to campus safety with the procurement of 19 Avive Connect AED® units which have been deployed throughout the campus, athletic facilities and highly populated student centers. The decision follows a series of demonstrations and conversations between school leadership and Avive representatives in late 2025.

Athletic Trainer Mr. Robert DeStefano first met with Avive at a conference last year and subsequently hosted an onsite demonstration in November 2025 alongside Interim Principal Mr. Darryl Heale and other school leaders. Impressed by the technology and usability of the Avive devices, the school finalized the purchase in January 2026.

“We were looking for the best possible automated external defibrillator solution for our entire campus, including athletic fields, academic spaces, and parish buildings, and Avive offered features that truly stood out,” said Mr. DeStefano. “The Avive Connect AED’s compact size, lighter weight, and intuitive design make it ideal for rapid response in emergency situations.”

Key factors in Donovan Catholic’s decision included:

  • Ease of Use & Accessibility - The user-friendly design provides confidence in critical situations.

  • Rechargeable Battery - Sustainable, cost-effective power support for each unit.

  • REALConnect Remote Monitoring - A central benefit for school leadership, enabling remote oversight of AED operational readiness across all facilities from any desktop.

  • Flexible Financing through Leasing - The five-year Lifesaver subscription provided a compelling alternative to a large upfront capital expense.

The Avive Connect AED is the first and only automated external defibrillator with built-in 911 integration, combining advanced technology with unmatched ease of use. Designed for rapid response and simple maintenance, it features remote monitoring, seamless incident data transfer, and an intuitive touchscreen that guides rescuers every step of the way. With real-time CPR coaching, clear visual and audio instructions, and no training required, the Avive Connect AED empowers anyone to act confidently in an emergency. A single set of electrode pads works for both adults and children and an in-rescue Español button instantly switches audio and visual instructions from English to Spanish, ensuring accessibility when it matters most. The device is also the first and only AED to include prompts instructing rescuers to remove a bra and to display a female body in both on-screen graphics and electrode pad illustrations - helping to reduce hesitation and support faster and more proper lifesaving response for women experiencing cardiac arrest.

“We are entrusted each day with the safety and well-being of our students, faculty, and visitors across our entire campus, from our classrooms and athletic facilities to our parish buildings,” said Mr. Darryl Heale, Interim Principal of Donovan Catholic High School. “Investing in these Avive Connect AEDs is part of our broader commitment to campus safety and emergency preparedness. By equipping our school with reliable, easy-to-use technology and real-time monitoring capabilities, we are strengthening our ability to respond quickly and effectively in critical moments, ensuring a safer environment for our entire Donovan Catholic community.”

Donovan Catholic High School, accredited and committed to fostering excellence in academics, athletics, and community life, continues to prioritize student and staff well-being through innovative approaches in health, safety, and campus preparedness.

 

Donovan Catholic’s recent Varsity Boys Basketball victory over Freehold Boro will be remembered as one of the most significant moments in program history. With the win, Head Coach Michael Kearney secured his 500th career victory — a remarkable milestone that reflects decades of dedication, leadership, and excellence on the court.

The milestone victory is not just a number. It represents years of commitment to developing student-athletes, building a culture rooted in discipline and teamwork, and fostering a program defined by integrity and competitive spirit. Under Coach Kearney’s leadership, Donovan Catholic Basketball has grown into a respected and successful program, known not only for winning games but for shaping young men of character.

Coach Kearney’s impact extends far beyond the scoreboard. His passion for the game is contagious, and his ability to mentor, motivate, and inspire has left a lasting impression on generations of Griffins. Former players often credit him not only for their athletic growth, but for the life lessons learned through his guidance.

In November 2025, Donovan Catholic proudly inducted Coach Kearney into the Griffin Hall of Fame in recognition of his outstanding contributions to our school community. This latest achievement further solidifies his legacy and underscores the lasting influence he has had on Donovan Catholic Athletics.

The entire Donovan Catholic community celebrates this historic accomplishment and thanks Coach Kearney for his unwavering dedication to our students and program.

Congratulations on 500 career wins, Coach — and here’s to many more milestones ahead.

A new era begins for Griffin Wrestling at Donovan Catholic High School. The school proudly announces the appointment of Jay Coleman as the new Head Wrestling Coach, beginning in the 2026–2027 school year.

A standout athlete at Toms River High School East, Coleman was a multiple region placer and state qualifier before continuing his competitive journey as a professional MMA fighter. Now retired from professional competition, he brings a wealth of high-level athletic experience and a deep understanding of the discipline, preparation, and resilience required to succeed at the highest levels.

Coleman’s coaching résumé is equally impressive. He has worked with several of the area’s most respected wrestling programs, including Toms River Wrestling Club and Shore Thing Wrestling Club, and currently serves as Head Coach at Top Dawg Academy. Throughout his coaching career, he has demonstrated a strong commitment to developing well-rounded student-athletes — emphasizing technical excellence, mental toughness, and character development both on and off the mat.

Donovan Catholic Athletic Director Mr. Tom Moriau shared his enthusiasm about the appointment:

“I am very excited to have Jay as our next Head Wrestling Coach. He brings a wealth of experience to our team and school. His proven track record of developing student-athletes and his focus on fostering a championship culture will be an asset to Donovan Catholic. Jay will develop a strong commitment to academic and athletic excellence, and I look forward to watching him build upon our program’s foundation and have our kids perform at the highest level.”

With this new leadership, Griffin Wrestling is poised for continued growth and competitive success. The Donovan Catholic community looks forward to the energy, vision, and championship mindset Coach Coleman will bring as he leads the program into its next chapter.

The future of Griffin Wrestling is bright — and the climb to new heights begins now. 

This week, Donovan Catholic High School proudly celebrates National School Counseling Week by recognizing and thanking our dedicated School Counseling Department for the vital role they play in the life of our school community.

Our school counselors are an essential source of guidance and support for our students, walking alongside them through academic planning, personal development, and important life decisions. Each day, they help students navigate challenges, set goals, and prepare for their futures with clarity and confidence.

Rooted in our Catholic faith and values, the Donovan Catholic Counseling Team goes beyond academics—helping students identify and embrace their God-given gifts while encouraging growth in mind, heart, and spirit. Their commitment to compassion, service, and individualized care reflects the mission of Donovan Catholic and the belief that every student is called to a life of purpose.

We are deeply grateful for the time, dedication, and heart our counselors pour into our school community each and every day. Their work is a true reflection of faith in action, and we thank them for being a constant source of encouragement and support for our Griffins.