Don Bosco Football NJ: Program Overview & Stats

By Sarah Miller · March 4, 2028

Don Bosco Preparatory High School in Ramsey, New Jersey, is home to one of the most dominant high school football programs in the United States. The Don Bosco Football NJ team has consistently ranked nationally, producing NFL talent and winning multiple state and national championships.

History and Legacy of Don Bosco Football NJ

The Don Bosco Ironmen have built a powerhouse reputation over the past two decades. Located in Ramsey, Bergen County, the private Catholic school's football program gained national prominence in the early 2000s under coaches like Greg Toal and current head coach Tim Telesco.

Rise to National Prominence

The program achieved its first undefeated season and national ranking in 2002.
Won the USA Today National Championship in 2003 after finishing 12-0.
Has claimed over 15 state sectional titles, with dominance in North Jersey, Group 4 and Non-Public A categories.
Regularly competes against elite national programs in high-profile matchups and showcases.

Recent Performance and Rankings

In recent years, Don Bosco has remained a top-tier contender in New Jersey high school football. The 2023 and 2024 seasons saw the Ironmen ranked among the top five teams in the state by NJ.com and MaxPreps.

Key 2023 Season Highlights

Finished with a 10-2 record and reached the Non-Public Group A state final.
Defeated rival Bergen Catholic in a pivotal October matchup.
Ranked as high as #18 nationally by MaxPreps during the regular season.
Multiple players received All-State and All-American honors.

Season	Record	State Result	National Rank (MaxPreps)	Head Coach
2023	10-2	Non-Public A Finalist	#18	Tim Telesco
2022	9-3	Sectional Semifinalist	#45	Tim Telesco
2021	8-4	Non-Public A Champion	#27	Greg Toal
2019	11-1	Non-Public A Champion	#12	Greg Toal
2016	10-2	Non-Public A Finalist	#33	Greg Toal

Table data source:1, 2

The data shows consistent excellence, with Don Bosco maintaining a winning percentage above .750 over the past decade. The program reaches championship contention nearly every three years on average and remains a pipeline for Division I college football talent.

Notable Alumni and NFL Players

Don Bosco Prep has produced numerous collegiate and professional athletes. Its alumni network includes several NFL draft picks and active players.

Famous Don Bosco Football Alumni

Kyle Monangai – Star running back at Rutgers University, 2023 All-Big Ten selection.
Kevin Boss – Former NFL tight end, won Super Bowl XLVI with the New York Giants.
Tavon Austin – Transferred to Don Bosco for senior year; drafted 8th overall in 2013 by the St. Louis Rams.
Khaleke Hudson – Linebacker at Michigan, signed with Washington Commanders.
Anthony Cioffi – Safety at Rutgers, briefly with New York Jets practice squad.

Coaching Staff and Development System

The success of Don Bosco football stems from a structured development system emphasizing discipline, film study, strength training, and college preparation.

Current Coaching Leadership

Tim Telesco – Head Coach since 2022; son of NFL GM Tom Telesco.
Emphasis on player safety, academic eligibility, and character development.
Advanced analytics and opponent scouting integrated into weekly preparation.
Strong partnerships with local youth programs to build a feeder system.

Facilities and Game Day Experience

Don Bosco plays home games at the on-campus Sodality Field, recently upgraded with synthetic turf and lighting for night games. The atmosphere during rivalry weeks—especially vs. Bergen Catholic—is electric, often drawing crowds exceeding 5,000.

Game Day Features

Friday night lights schedule for key matchups.
Live streaming available via NFHS Network.
Marching band and cheerleading squads enhance fan engagement.
Rivalry game tickets often sell out weeks in advance.

Frequently Asked Questions About Don Bosco Football NJ

What is Don Bosco Football NJ’s all-time record?

While official all-time records are not centrally published, estimates based on historical data suggest Don Bosco holds a win-loss record above 600-300 since the program’s inception in the early 20th century, with over 70% win rate in the last 20 years.

Who are Don Bosco’s biggest rivals in football?

The primary rivalries include Bergen Catholic, St. Joseph Regional, and Paramus Catholic. The annual Thanksgiving game against Immaculate Conception was historic, though less frequent now due to classification changes.

How can I watch Don Bosco football games live?

Games are streamed live on the NFHS Network. Select matchups are also covered by MSG Varsity and local news stations like News 12 New Jersey.

What division does Don Bosco play in?

Don Bosco competes in the Big North Conference, Non-Public Group A, and is classified as a Non-Public school by the NJSIAA. They regularly play in the state’s highest competitive tier for private schools.

How many state championships has Don Bosco won?

Don Bosco has won at least six NJSIAA state sectional championships, including titles in 2001, 2003, 2006, 2008, 2011, 2019, and 2021. They’ve also been recognized as national champions by various polls in 2003 and 2008.