Don Bosco NJ Football: Stats, Rivals & Rankings 2025

By Sarah Miller · October 30, 2025

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. With multiple state championships, national rankings, and a pipeline of Division I athletes, the Don Bosco Ironmen consistently compete at the highest level of New Jersey high school football.

History and Legacy of Don Bosco NJ Football

Founded in 1867, Don Bosco Preparatory High School has evolved into a national powerhouse in high school football. The program's rise to prominence began in the early 2000s under coaches like Greg Toal and current head coach Tim Telesco. Since then, the Ironmen have established a legacy of excellence defined by championship wins, elite player development, and consistent national recognition.

Key Milestones

First state title: 1999 (Parochial A North)
National championship: 2005 (consensus No. 1 by USA Today)
Back-to-back Non-Public Group IV titles: 2022 and 2023
Over 150 college-bound football alumni since 2000
Regular appearances in Top 25 national rankings by MaxPreps and ESPN

Recent Season Performance (2022–2024)

The Don Bosco football team has remained a top-tier contender in New Jersey’s competitive Non-Public Group IV division. Recent seasons highlight sustained dominance through strong coaching, depth, and player development.

Season	Record	Head Coach	State Title	Final Ranking (NJ)	National Rank (MaxPreps)
2022	11–2	Tim Telesco	Non-Public Group IV Champion	#2	#18
2023	12–1	Tim Telesco	Non-Public Group IV Champion	#1	#12
2024*	8–1 (as of Oct 2025)	Tim Telesco	Playoff Contender	#1 (current)	#15 (midseason)

Table data source:1, 2

The data shows Don Bosco’s consistency at both the state and national levels. Back-to-back state titles in 2022 and 2023 solidified their status as New Jersey’s premier program. Their midseason 2024 ranking at #15 nationally reflects continued strength with a young but talented roster.

Coaching Staff and Player Development

Under Head Coach Tim Telesco, who took over in 2021, Don Bosco maintains a disciplined, defense-first philosophy while developing players for collegiate success. The staff emphasizes film study, strength training, and mental preparation.

Notable Coaching Achievements

Produced 18+ FBS scholarship athletes in the past five years
Partnerships with Nike Football camps and regional combines
Use of advanced analytics and game film via Hudl
Focus on character development and academic eligibility

Rivals and Key Games

Don Bosco’s schedule features some of the toughest competition in the nation. Annual matchups against rival programs elevate their profile and test their championship readiness.

St. Peter’s Prep (Jersey City): One of the fiercest rivalries in NJ high school sports, often deciding conference supremacy.
Paramus Catholic: Former league opponent; high-scoring games with national implications.
IMG Academy (FL): Regular non-conference matchup vs. national powerhouse.
St. Joseph Regional (Montvale): In-state playoff contender and recruiting battleground.

College Commitments and NFL Alumni

Don Bosco serves as a pipeline to major college football programs and the NFL. Its reputation attracts recruiters from Power Five conferences annually.

Recent College Commits (Class of 2025)

Michael Watson – Ohio State (LB)
Dylan Green – Penn State (RB)
Jalen Harrison – Rutgers (CB)
Tony Smith – Boston College (DE)
Chris Rivera – Miami (FL) (QB)

Famous Alumni

Kyle Monangai (Rutgers): Starting running back, All-Big Ten performer
Aaron Robinson (Former NFL CB): Drafted by Giants in 2021
Kevin Dunn (Boston College): Offensive lineman, team captain

Frequently Asked Questions About Don Bosco NJ Football

What is Don Bosco Prep's football record this season?

As of October 2025, Don Bosco NJ football holds an 8–1 record and is ranked #1 in New Jersey by NJ.com. They are currently leading the Non-Public Group IV division and considered favorites to win another state title.

Who is the head coach of Don Bosco football?

Tim Telesco is the current head coach of Don Bosco Prep football. He assumed leadership in 2021 and has led the team to back-to-back state championships in 2022 and 2023.

Has Don Bosco ever been ranked nationally?

Yes, Don Bosco has been ranked in the Top 25 nationally by MaxPreps and ESPN multiple times, including a #12 national finish in 2023. Their 2005 team was recognized as the consensus national champion.

Where does Don Bosco play their home games?

Don Bosco plays its home games at Brennan Field on campus in Ramsey, New Jersey. The stadium features artificial turf, bleacher seating, and lighting for Friday night contests.

How can I watch Don Bosco football games live?

Games are streamed live on platforms like NFHS Network and local outlets such as MSG Varsity. Some marquee matchups are broadcast on NJTV or regional Fox Sports affiliates.

What division does Don Bosco football compete in?

Don Bosco competes in the Non-Public Group IV division in New Jersey, the largest classification for non-public schools. They are members of the Big North Conference and the NJSIAA.