5 Super Athletes With Ties To Barnegat-Manahawkin

Sports have a way of teaching invaluable life lessons — building character, fostering teamwork and strengthening the bonds within a community. In the Barnegat-Manahawkin area, these values have shaped some truly remarkable athletes from different eras, whose accomplishments continue to inspire.

Patch has teamed up with T-Mobile to spotlight five standout athletes whose achievements have left a lasting mark on our community. While this list is just a snapshot, there are countless others who have helped shape the rich sports culture in our area.

1. Glenn Carson (Football)

Glenn Carson, a Manahawkin native, excelled as a linebacker at Southern Regional High School before joining the Penn State Nittany Lions. Carson became a cornerstone of Penn State’s defense during his senior season, starting a team-high 28 games in his college career. Carson pursued his NFL dreams with the Arizona Cardinals as an undrafted free agent in 2014 and later joined the New York Giants practice squad in 2015.

2. Jason Groome (Baseball)

Jason “Jay” Groome, a starting pitcher for the San Diego Padres, began his baseball career in Barnegat Township, where he played for Barnegat High School (Class of 2016). A standout athlete, Groome quickly made a name for himself as one of the nation’s top pitching prospects, earning the 12th overall selection in the 2016 MLB Draft by the Boston Red Sox. Despite facing setbacks, including Tommy John surgery and trades, Groome has continued to showcase his resilience and talent in professional baseball.

3. Meghan Wilson (Lacrosse)

Barnegat native Meghan Wilson was a force on the lacrosse field during her time at Barnegat High School (Class of 2011), from which she graduated with All-State and All-Ocean County honors. She continued to excel in the sport on Albright College’s women’s lacrosse team, earning multiple All-Commonwealth selections and setting records for draw controls. Known for her scoring ability and defensive prowess, Wilson was recognized with accolades like the MAC Giant Steps Award by the time she graduated in 2015.

4. James Rivers (Cross Country)

James Rivers, a cross country standout from Barnegat, New Jersey (Class of 2010), made his mark at Stockton University. Known for his consistent top finishes, Rivers earned NJAC First Team honors in 2012 and was named NJAC Runner of the Week for his outstanding performances. With career-best times like 25:50.19 at the NJAC Championship, Rivers showcased his dedication and talent throughout his collegiate career.

5. Maddie Musico (Soccer)

Maddie Musico, a 2017 Barnegat High School alumna, made her mark in soccer both locally and at Montclair State University. A dynamic forward, she played in over 50 collegiate games, contributing goals, assists, and key performances, including game-winning moments like her decisive goal against Vassar in 2019. Musico’s high school career set records for most goals and points in a season and most goals in a career, earning her All-Conference honors.

This content is brought to our community in partnership with T-Mobile.