ATHLETICS

Athletics at Wilberforce

Filter
Calendar

Fall

Middle School Sports

Cross Country

OriginalImage,,,Original

Distance running has been part of the Olympic Games since they were first held in ancient Greece. The dolichos, a race of approximately 3 to 5 kilometers (or longer), was a grueling endurance race and is considered a precursor to modern long-distance and cross country events. The Wolverine cross country program has earned state recognition within the NJSIAA Non-Public arena, including two state championship teams, and an individual state champion. The US Cross Country team has secured first place finishes at The Mercer County Tournament meet, while the MS Cross Country team has claimed first place at Stuart Country Day School's Invitational twice. Cross country builds student-athletes by developing cardiovascular endurance, mental toughness, and self-discipline; and several Wolverine runners have gone on to compete at the collegiate level. As with all sports at The Wilberforce School, athletes and coaches in the cross country program are committed to the common goals of developing disciples of Christ through the tool of athletics; training athletes toward the pursuit of victory in the arena, growing more virtuous in that pursuit; and competing in a manner worthy of the gospel.

Pre-Season: August 18 - August 29 (Monday-Friday 8:00-9:30am)
Season: September 3- October 31

 

 

 ThumbnailImage,,,Thumbnail

Wayne Hailstone
Head Coach

Wayne has been teaching math at the Wilberforce School since 2016. For several of those years, he has coached MS Cross Country, MS Swim, and MS Track. He swam 4 years for his high school and ran 3 years for Cairn University's XC team. His most proud athletic achievement was completing a marathon after his last college season of XC. In all of the sports Wayne has participated in, he is passionate about reaching new goals, building up one another as a team, exercising for lifelong health, and developing good form. He believes middle school is an excellent time to discover new gifts and passions God has given students. These days Wayne takes advantage of the endurance he has built through running by hiking and biking with his wife and two kids.

 

 ThumbnailImage,,,Thumbnail

Jessica Schellack
Assistant Coach

Jessica was a three-season athlete in high school. She ran outdoor track for four years and cross country for three years, being appointed Captain for all in her Jr. and Sr. years. She achieved varsity status in her sophomore year and was appointed Captain thereafter for cross country, and in her Junior year for indoor/outdoor. Throughout high school, she helped coach track for local municipal programs.

Jessica was introduced to running by her mother at the young age of 5! She grew to enjoy athletics and sports, appreciating its ability to build fitness, endurance, and character. She continued in college with the novice rowing team at the University of Michigan, receiving an Academic Achievement Award for Scholar Athletes her freshman year. For the remainder of college and graduate school, she would participate in various intramural sports, running road races until the pandemic.

Jessica is honored to return to The Wilberforce School athletics for a fifth season, hoping to mentor student athletes such that they find joy in sports and overall fitness and achieve their potential in competition for the glory of God. In between runs, she can be found brewing coffee and kombucha with her husband while learning more about Charlotte Mason's philosophy of education and attempting to run after their four delightful children and flock of ducks.

Boys Soccer

OriginalImage,,,Original

Soccer (or "football") traces its roots back to ancient civilizations, including those in Greece and South America. Today, it is the world's most popular sport and a tool for developing student-athletes by promoting endurance, coordination, teamwork, and strategic thinking. As with all sports at The Wilberforce School, athletes and coaches in the soccer program are committed to the common goals of developing disciples of Christ through the tool of athletics; training athletes toward the pursuit of victory in the arena, growin ,lpg more virtuous in that pursuit; and competing in a manner worthy of the gospel. Both the Middle and Upper School Soccer teams compete with local area private and public school programs. In 2024, the US Boys soccer team made its first appearance in the NJSIAA Non-Public Boys soccer tournament, beating the #2 seed in the first round and advancing to the quarterfinal round - a first in school history.

Pre-Season: August 18 - August 29 (Monday-Friday 8:00-10:00am)
Season: September 3- October 31


 OptimizedImage,,,Optimized

Steve McLean
Head Coach

Steve is in his third year coaching at Wilberforce and his second as head coach of the middle school boys team. Steve is an avid athlete, coach, and sports fan. He stays fit playing soccer, tennis, basketball, golf, table tennis, backyard football, and whatever else involves a ball. Steve played soccer and tennis for Ramapo High School (Franklin Lakes, NJ), which has perennially been one of New Jersey’s most successful high school sports programs. In addition to coaching at Wilberforce, Steve has coached for Princeton Little League, with experience from tee ball (4-6 years old) through intermediate (11-13 years old). During his off-field hours, Steve can be found with his family, cheering for the Yankees, Giants, Rangers, Knicks, and the U.S. Men’s and Women’s National Soccer Teams. He also serves as Music Director at Jacob’s Well Community Church. Steve delights in seeing his teams play with a strong competitive spirit while honoring God through their sportsmanship and sacrificial commitment to teammates. Steve and his wife, Sarah, have four children.

 

 OptimizedImage,,,Optimized

Mike Cottone
Assistant Coach

Mike serves as the assistant coach of the middle school boys soccer team at Wilberforce. He played soccer in his younger years, then baseball and football through high school, and continues to enjoy the thrill of competitive sports. He stays active playing tennis, skiing, and mountain biking, and enjoys watching a wide variety of live sporting events. Mike values the opportunity to invest in the lives of his players as they grow both in skill and character as young Christian men. He and his wife, Taryn, have two children at the school.

Girls Soccer

OriginalImage,,,Original

Soccer (or "football") traces its roots back to ancient civilizations, including those in Greece and South America. Today, it is the world's most popular sport and a tool for developing student-athletes by promoting endurance, coordination, teamwork, and strategic thinking. As with all sports at The Wilberforce School, athletes and coaches in the soccer program are committed to the common goals of developing disciples of Christ through the tool of athletics; training athletes toward the pursuit of victory in the arena, growing more virtuous in that pursuit; and competing in a manner worthy of the gospel. Both the Middle and Upper School Soccer teams compete with local area private and public school programs. In 2024, the US Boys soccer team made its first appearance in the NJSIAA Non-Public Boys soccer tournament, beating the #2 seed in the first round and advancing to the quarterfinal round - a first in school history.

Pre-Season: August 18 - August 29 (Monday-Friday 8:00-10:00am)
Season: September 3- October 31


OriginalImage,,,Original

Anna Greco
Coach

Soccer has always been a big part of Anna's story. She played soccer competitively throughout her childhood, and played all 4 years of her college career on scholarship. She also served/competed with Athletes in Action, coached at numerous soccer camps for all ages, was the varsity girl's Head Coach of Calvary Academy, Assistant Coach of girl's varsity at The Lawrenceville School, and coached K-8th graders with Robbinsville Soccer Association. She is currently the Lower School PE Teacher. 


Upper School Sports

Cross Country

OriginalImage,,,Original

OriginalImage,,,Original

Distance running has been part of the Olympic Games since they were first held in ancient Greece. The dolichos, a race of approximately 3 to 5 kilometers (or longer), was a grueling endurance race and is considered a precursor to modern long-distance and cross country events. The Wolverine cross-country program has earned state recognition within the NJSIAA Non-Public arena, including two state championship teams, and an individual state champion. The US Cross Country team has secured first place finishes at The Mercer County Tournament meet, while the MS Cross Country team has claimed first place at Stuart Country Day School's Invitational twice. Cross country builds student-athletes by developing cardiovascular endurance, mental toughness, and self-discipline; and several Wolverine runners have gone on to compete at the collegiate level. As with all sports at The Wilberforce School, athletes and coaches in the cross country program are committed to the common goals of developing disciples of Christ through the tool of athletics; training athletes toward the pursuit of victory in the arena, growing more virtuous in that pursuit; and competing in a manner worthy of the gospel.

Pre-Season: August 18 - August 29 (Monday-Friday 8:00-10:00am)
Season: September 3- October 31


 OptimizedImage,,,Optimized

Lois Szeliga
Head Coach

Lois grew up in Watchung, NJ where she began running competitively at age 9 by participating in the Jr. Olympics program. After 4 years of running cross country and track for her high school, Lois continued to run all 4 years of college for Rutgers University (cross-country, 800m, and 1500m). Throughout her running career, Lois’ (high-school sweetheart) husband Dan could be seen trailside and trackside with signs of “Go Lois”. Following a successful career in pharmaceutical sales, Lois was thrilled to stay home to care for her 6 children, Danny, Nate, Eve, Aaron, Josie, and Gabby. She is grateful to give back to a school and a sport that has given her so much. She knows firsthand the value of lessons learned for life and for faith through running.

Boys Soccer

OriginalImage,,,Original
Soccer (or "football") traces its roots back to ancient civilizations, including those in Greece and South America. Today, it is the world's most popular sport and a tool for developing student-athletes by promoting endurance, coordination, teamwork, and strategic thinking. As with all sports at The Wilberforce School, athletes and coaches in the soccer program are committed to the common goals of developing disciples of Christ through the tool of athletics; training athletes toward the pursuit of victory in the arena, growing more virtuous in that pursuit; and competing in a manner worthy of the gospel. Both the Middle and Upper School Soccer teams compete with local area private and public school programs. In 2024, the US Boys soccer team made its first appearance in the NJSIAA Non-Public Boys soccer tournament, beating the #2 seed in the first round and advancing to the quarterfinal round - a first in school history.

Pre-Season: August 18 - August 29 (Monday-Friday 8:00-10:00am)
Season: September 3- October 31

 

 OptimizedImage,,,Optimized

Alcides Quintana
Head Coach

Alcides Quintana was born in Cuba. He came to the United States at the age of 14. He has played and coached soccer for over 35 years, including coaching his own kids through the Millstone United program until they graduated. For the past two years, Al has been coaching U9-U11 boys and younger age groups within recreation and travel programs. He is also a certified USSF referee (travel soccer) as well NFHS referee (High School).

Al looks forward to sharing his experiences, knowledge, passion and love for the game with the athletes. At the same time, he strives to develop each athlete as a player and as a person under a fun and healthy environment.

 

 OptimizedImage,,,Optimized

Eddie Tam
Assistant Coach

Eddie's soccer journey began in his hometown of Hong Kong during his elementary school years. Throughout middle and high school, he served as the team captain and led his school to victory in numerous interscholastic championships. Eddie's dedication was further recognized when he was chosen to represent the Hong Kong National Youth Team during his sophomore year of high school.

Upon arriving in the United States for college, Eddie continued to pursue his passion for soccer by joining the NYU varsity team, where he competed in the NCAA UAA conference. Today, he remains an active player in soccer, competing in a local amateur league in West Windsor.

Eddie wants to share with the team that God has given us the blessings to be able to play the beautiful game of soccer. He believes that through these blessings, they are not only able to play but to learn, grow, and cherish the experience of being a team united by the joy of soccer.

Girls Soccer

OriginalImage,,,Original
Soccer (or "football") traces its roots back to ancient civilizations, including those in Greece and South America. Today, it is the world's most popular sport and a tool for developing student-athletes by promoting endurance, coordination, teamwork, and strategic thinking. As with all sports at The Wilberforce School, athletes and coaches in the soccer program are committed to the common goals of developing disciples of Christ through the tool of athletics; training athletes toward the pursuit of victory in the arena, growing more virtuous in that pursuit; and competing in a manner worthy of the gospel. Both the Middle and Upper School Soccer teams compete with local area private and public school programs. In 2024, the US Boys soccer team made its first appearance in the NJSIAA Non-Public Boys soccer tournament, beating the #2 seed in the first round and advancing to the quarterfinal round - a first in school history.

Pre-Season: August 18 - August 29 (Monday-Friday 8:00-10:00am)
Season: September 3- October 31


 OptimizedImage,,,Optimized

Kristen Yonkman
Head Coach

Kristen began running when she was 13 months old and just hasn’t stopped. Raised in Encinitas, California, she played soccer and ran track through high school. She won league championships in the 100, 200, long jump, and high jump and competed in the CIF San Diego Section Finals in high jump each year. Kristen attended Calvin College where she double-majored in art and philosophy. She played four years of soccer, earning All- MIAA First Team honors as a defender. In track and field she trained under Coach Kim, a two-time Olympian and three-time NCAA Coach of the Year.Kristen competed in heptathlon before shifting her focus back to sprints and jumps. She became an NCAA All-American in the 4x100 m relay her sophomore season. While attending Westminster Seminary California, Kristen coached high school track and field and soccer at a nearby Christian school. After moving East, she continued to coach while working as a personal trainer specializing in sports performance, injury prevention, and sports nutrition.

Kristen teaches MS/US art at Wilberforce. She values every chance to encourage and challenge students in their faith in Jesus Christ and enjoys the unique opportunities presented in the art room and through athletics. She lives in Hamilton, NJ with her husband and two children. She is still up for a challenge and enjoys running fast and strength training as well as backpacking and water sports.

Strength & Conditioning

Students will learn how to safely train in the weight room and also train outdoors. We will improve flexibility, strength, speed, agility, and endurance. This program is for serious athletes who really want to get stronger and faster. Participating in a strength and conditioning program requires maturity and a good work ethic.

Season: September 5- October 31


 OptimizedImage,,,Optimized

Richard Carlson
Head Coach

Rich grew up in a Navy family and has lived all across the country. He and his wife, Sheri, relocated from Encinitas, California, to Morrisville, Pennsylvania, in 2020. A graduate of the U.S. Air Force Academy, Rich played rugby, competed in powerlifting, and served as a cadet assistant in the Academy’s Physical Reconditioning program. In addition to coaching and training, he loves outdoor adventures and travel.

Rich is a certified Personal Trainer through the National Academy of Sports Medicine and also serves as a Strength Coach. He works with individuals of all ages—from teens to senior adults—whether their goals are sports performance, cardio fitness, strength building, weight loss, or improved mobility and balance. In addition to his work at The Wilberforce School, Rich is a personal trainer and Wellness Coach at the YMCA in Hamilton, New Jersey.

Winter

Middle School Sports

Swim

 Swimming is truly a classical sport, with evidence of competitive swimming found in the ancient civilizations of Egypt, Greece, and Rome. The Wilberforce School is grateful for both a MS and US school program, an increasingly uncommon offering, especially in Middle School. Swimming helps to build full-body strength in athletes, while also increasing cardiovascular endurance and mental toughness. In the Middle School, Wolverine swimmers have claimed victories at various invitationals and meets, including the Jay Levin Invitational where they won the team title during the 2024-2025 season. US Swimmers have competed at Easterns (the east coast's premier private school swim event ) and in the NJSIAA Meet of Champions (vs NJSIAA Public and Private Schools). In 2025-2026, The Wilberforce School was represented by its first ever qualifying entrant in the NJSIAA Meet of Champions. As with all sports at The Wilberforce School, athletes and coaches in the swim program are committed to the common goals of developing disciples of Christ through the tool of athletics; training athletes toward the pursuit of victory in the arena, growing more virtuous in that pursuit; and competing in a manner worthy of the gospel. Note: Swim practices for both MS and US teams are held at Windsor Athletic Club. 


OriginalImage,,,Original

Walt Reynolds
Coach

Walt serves as the Athletic Director and C6 Science Teacher at The Wilberforce School. He loves the water, and some of his best memories with family and friends come from days spent swimming, surfing, or snorkeling. Walt is passionate about helping students grow in confidence, skill, and physical discipline as they pursue their athletic goals and honor God with their bodies. He's served various communities as both a swim coach and wrestling coach. On Tuesday and Thursday mornings, he opens our school gym for US students who are seeking extra time for strength training.

 

OriginalImage,,,Original

Frank Fitzgerald
Coach

Coach Fitzgerald was instrumental in starting the swim program at Wilberforce and continues to invest his time and energy into each Wilberforce swimmer. As a state champion NJ high school swimmer and a former Princeton University swimmer, Coach Fitzgerald brings years of experience to the Wilberforce swim program. He and his wife, Nina (Wilberforce Lower School Art Teacher) have been involved in the life of the school since their daughters, who also swam collegiately, were Wolverines.

 

OriginalImage,Coto,Coach,Swim,,Original

Sarah Coto
Coach

Sarah has loved swimming from a young age, with butterfly as her favorite stroke—so much so that she often chose it over breaststroke as a child. Since her teenage years, she has taught both private and group swim lessons, working with swimmers of all ages—from Mommy and Me classes to adult learners and competitive high school athletes. After college, Sarah returned to competitive swimming as a coach, spending five years helping swimmers grow in both skill and confidence.

Coaching is a calling Sarah deeply values, as she loves watching athletes discover their God-given potential through discipline, perseverance, and proper technique. She believes that every swimmer, no matter their level, reflects the creativity and strength with which God uniquely designed them. Sarah is thrilled to be a part of this Christ-centered community and is excited to contribute to the growth—both in and out of the water—of every swimmer on the team.

 

OriginalImage,,,Original

Al Quintana
Swim Athlete Supervisor

Alcides Quintana was born in Cuba and came to the United States at the age of 14. He learned to swim as a child and has loved the sport ever since, earning his lifeguard certification in high school. Swimming has remained a lifelong passion, and he is excited to share his experience, knowledge, and enthusiasm with young athletes.

In addition to swimming, Alcides has played and coached soccer for more than 35 years, including coaching his own children through the Millstone United program. He has coached boys and girls from U9 to U13, as well as younger age groups in both recreation and travel programs. Alcides is also a certified USSF referee for travel soccer and an NFHS referee for high school matches.

He looks forward to fostering a love for swimming while helping each athlete grow in skill, character, and faith as a follower of Jesus Christ in a fun and supportive environment.

 

Boys Basketball

 Basketball may not be an ancient sport, but it's arguably an American classic - its invention credited to a college professor in Springfield, Massachusetts. The Wilberforce School offers Basketball in both the MS and US, with teams competing against local public and private schools. The MS basketball teams practice in our school's gym, while the Upper School teams practice at the Windsor Athletic Club. Basketball offers athletes an indoor refuge for sport during cold and wet winter months, and helps to build agility, hand-eye coordination, and quick decision making.  As with all sports at The Wilberforce School, athletes and coaches in the basketball program are committed to the common goals of developing disciples of Christ through the tool of athletics; training athletes toward the pursuit of victory in the arena, growing more virtuous in that pursuit; and competing in a manner worthy of the gospel. 

OriginalImage,ms boys basketball,athletics,basketball,Allen,Rob,Coach,,Original

Rob Allen
Coach

Coach Rob has been passionate about basketball since childhood, often playing from morning until night during summer breaks. Over the past 20 years, he has served in various children’s ministries, working with students from Kindergarten through high school. He has also coached 3rd–4th and 6th–7th grade basketball teams with the Monroe Township Hoops Association. Rob views coaching as an opportunity to disciple young men and walk beside them as they grow in godly character.

 

OriginalImage,Coach,Athletics,James An,,Original

James An
Coach

James serves as the assistant coach of the Middle School boys’ basketball team at Wilberforce. He competed in swimming and tennis on his high school varsity teams and has long enjoyed basketball, playing for his college club team as well as in numerous intramural and recreational leagues. A dedicated NY Knicks fan, he remains confident that the team will deliver a championship in his lifetime. James values the opportunity to help the boys honor God as they grow in character, skill, and teamwork. He and his wife, Grace, look forward to the day their two Lower School children become active participants in Wilberforce’s athletics programs.

Girls Basketball

 Basketball may not be an ancient sport, but it's arguably an American classic - its invention credited to a college professor in Springfield, Massachusetts. The Wilberforce School offers Basketball in both the MS and US, with teams competing against local public and private schools. The MS basketball teams practice in our school's gym, while the Upper School teams practice at the Windsor Athletic Club. Basketball offers athletes an indoor refuge for sport during cold and wet winter months, and helps to build agility, hand-eye coordination, and quick decision making.  As with all sports at The Wilberforce School, athletes and coaches in the basketball program are committed to the common goals of developing disciples of Christ through the tool of athletics; training athletes toward the pursuit of victory in the arena, growing more virtuous in that pursuit; and competing in a manner worthy of the gospel. 

OriginalImage,,,Original

Anna Greco
Coach

Anna has had a lifelong love for sports, with a special place in her heart for basketball. Growing up as a military kid traveling from place to place with two older brothers, she spent much of her free time competing in sports. She spent countless hours playing basketball in the driveway or at the park. After not making the cut for her middle school team, she kept on practicing and was able to make her high school team, and even ended up as the starting point guard. She continued to play intramural and pick up basketball throughout college and into adulthood.

Anna has many years experience as a Coach of all ages. She herself was inspired to be a coach from her own high school and college soccer and basketball coaches. In addition to coaching basketball, Anna is the Physical Education teacher as well as the Middle School Girls Soccer Coach at The Wilberforce School.

Upper School Sports

Swim

Swimming is truly a classical sport, with evidence of competitive swimming found in the ancient civilizations of Egypt, Greece, and Rome. The Wilberforce School is grateful for both a MS and US school program, an increasingly uncommon offering, especially in Middle School. Swimming helps to build full-body strength in athletes, while also increasing cardiovascular endurance and mental toughness. In the Middle School, Wolverine swimmers have claimed victories at various invitationals and meets, including the Jay Levin Invitational where they won the team title during the 2024-2025 season. US Swimmers have competed at Easterns (the east coast's premier private school swim event ) and in the NJSIAA Meet of Champions (vs NJSIAA Public and Private Schools). In 2025-2026, The Wilberforce School was represented by its first ever qualifying entrant in the NJSIAA Meet of Champions. As with all sports at The Wilberforce School, athletes and coaches in the swim program are committed to the common goals of developing disciples of Christ through the tool of athletics; training athletes toward the pursuit of victory in the arena, growing more virtuous in that pursuit; and competing in a manner worthy of the gospel. Note: Swim practices for both MS and US teams are held at Windsor Athletic Club.

OriginalImage,,,Original

Dave Madigan
Coach

Dave grew up in the hills of Northwest New Jersey riding his bike everywhere, whether to swim in Franklin Pond, to play pickup games with friends or to attend a sports practice miles away.  In high school, Dave competed in multiple sports (including swimming) and twice earned Non-Public 2nd-Team football honors, (once on offense and once on defense). After winning three state football championships, Dave's high school career culminated in his being selected to the annual North - South football game, in which he played offensive tackle, center and defensive end. At the U.S. Naval Academy, Dave played football until a knee injury sidelined his career. While recovering from his knee injury, Dave competed in intramural water polo prior to making it to the pitch, where he played rugby for nationally-ranked Navy. Following graduation, Dave served seven years as a Naval Flight Officer before spending the next 23+ years as an FBI Special Agent. Dave married his college sweetheart, Janet, in 1991 and they are blessed with five children, including three graduates of The Wilberforce School.

Over the years Dave has coached baseball, basketball, and soccer, in addition to swimming. As a coach, Dave loves to identify untapped potential and challenge his athletes to use the special gifts God has given them to the best of their ability. Dave always prays that his athletes will accept this challenge, which helps them to 1) improve on an individual level, 2) cope with life’s daily struggles, 3) build relationships with their teammates and subsequently 4) grow in confidence as a child of God.

 

OriginalImage,,,Original

Frank Fitzgerald
Coach

Coach Fitzgerald was instrumental in starting the swim program at Wilberforce and continues to invest his time and energy into each Wilberforce swimmer. As a state champion NJ high school swimmer and a former Princeton University swimmer, Coach Fitzgerald brings years of experience to the Wilberforce swim program.  He and his wife, Nina (Wilberforce Lower School Art Teacher) have been involved in the life of the school since their daughters, who also swam collegiately, were Wolverines.

 

OriginalImage,,,Original

Al Quintana
Swim Athlete Supervisor

Alcides Quintana was born in Cuba and came to the United States at the age of 14. He learned to swim as a child and has loved the sport ever since, earning his lifeguard certification in high school. Swimming has remained a lifelong passion, and he is excited to share his experience, knowledge, and enthusiasm with young athletes.

In addition to swimming, Alcides has played and coached soccer for more than 35 years, including coaching his own children through the Millstone United program. He has coached boys and girls from U9 to U13, as well as younger age groups in both recreation and travel programs. Alcides is also a certified USSF referee for travel soccer and an NFHS referee for high school matches.

He looks forward to fostering a love for swimming while helping each athlete grow in skill, character, and faith as a follower of Jesus Christ in a fun and supportive environment.

Boys Basketball

 Basketball may not be an ancient sport, but it's arguably an American classic - its invention credited to a college professor in Springfield, Massachusetts. The Wilberforce School offers Basketball in both the MS and US, with teams competing against local public and private schools. The MS basketball teams practice in our school's gym, while the Upper School teams practice at the Windsor Athletic Club. Basketball offers athletes an indoor refuge for sport during cold and wet winter months, and helps to build agility, hand-eye coordination, and quick decision making.  As with all sports at The Wilberforce School, athletes and coaches in the basketball program are committed to the common goals of developing disciples of Christ through the tool of athletics; training athletes toward the pursuit of victory in the arena, growing more virtuous in that pursuit; and competing in a manner worthy of the gospel. 

OriginalImage,,,Original

Jalen Baker
Coach

Jalen Baker serves as an Associate Pastor at Jacob’s Well Community Church. Originally from Dallas, Texas, he has a background in both basketball and football. Jalen is passionate about mentoring student-athletes and is committed to helping the team grow in skill, unity, and character.

 

OriginalImage,dan greco,coach,athletics,basketball,,Original
Dan Greco
Coach

Dan has always loved the beautiful game of basketball. He grew up playing, continues to play, and has had the privilege of coaching in a variety of settings. Dan began coaching at Wilberforce in 2024, and enjoys helping young players discover the game and the life lessons that come with it. Dan is married to Anna, and is the proud father of two sons and a daughter. He has served as the Lead Pastor of Lifetree Community Church in Robbinsville, NJ since its founding in 2010.

Girls Basketball

 Basketball may not be an ancient sport, but it's arguably an American classic - its invention credited to a college professor in Springfield, Massachusetts. The Wilberforce School offers Basketball in both the MS and US, with teams competing against local public and private schools. The MS basketball teams practice in our school's gym, while the Upper School teams practice at the Windsor Athletic Club. Basketball offers athletes an indoor refuge for sport during cold and wet winter months, and helps to build agility, hand-eye coordination, and quick decision making.  As with all sports at The Wilberforce School, athletes and coaches in the basketball program are committed to the common goals of developing disciples of Christ through the tool of athletics; training athletes toward the pursuit of victory in the arena, growing more virtuous in that pursuit; and competing in a manner worthy of the gospel. 

OriginalImage,,,Original

Keith James
Coach

Keith James grew up in Newark, NJ, and attended South Side High School where he earned varsity letters in both basketball and track. After graduating high school, Keith attended Rowan University and played four years of collegiate basketball. During his four years at Rowan, the men’s basketball team was the first team to play in two consecutive national championship tournaments. Prior to retiring from public education in 2019, Keith coached boys’ and girls’ sports in middle school, high school, and on the collegiate level. Presently, he is also coaching co-ed varsity golf at Gill Saint Bernard’s school.

Keith truly feels that substitute teaching and coaching at Wilberforce School, a faith-based institution, will extend his love for the Lord and a golden opportunity to share God’s gifts on a regular basis.

Strength & Conditioning

Students will learn how to safely train in the weight room and also train outdoors. We will improve flexibility, strength, speed, agility, and endurance. This program is for serious athletes who really want to get stronger and faster. Participating in a strength and conditioning program requires maturity and a good work ethic.


 OptimizedImage,,,Optimized

Richard Carlson
Coach

Rich grew up in a Navy family and has lived all across the country. He and his wife, Sheri, relocated from Encinitas, California, to Morrisville, Pennsylvania, in 2020. A graduate of the U.S. Air Force Academy, Rich played rugby, competed in powerlifting, and served as a cadet assistant in the Academy’s Physical Reconditioning program. In addition to coaching and training, he loves outdoor adventures and travel.

Rich is a certified Personal Trainer through the National Academy of Sports Medicine and also serves as a Strength Coach. He works with individuals of all ages—from teens to senior adults—whether their goals are sports performance, cardio fitness, strength building, weight loss, or improved mobility and balance. In addition to his work at The Wilberforce School, Rich is a personal trainer and Wellness Coach at the YMCA in Hamilton, New Jersey.

 

OriginalImage,,,Original

Kristen Yonkman
Coach

Kristen began running at 13 months and never stopped. Raised in Encinitas, CA, she excelled in soccer and track, winning league championships and competing in CIF Finals. At Calvin College, she played four years of soccer (All-MIAA First Team) and became an NCAA All-American in the 4x100m relay. She also trained under Olympian Coach Kim, competing in heptathlon and sprints/jumps.

Kristen has coached high school track, field, and soccer, and worked as a personal trainer specializing in strength and conditioning, sports performance, injury prevention, and sports nutrition. She now teaches MS/US art at Wilberforce, encouraging students in both faith and athletics. She enjoys running, strength training, backpacking, and water sports, and lives in Hamilton, NJ with her husband and two children.

Spring

Middle School Sports

Boys Lacrosse
A classic American sport, Lacrosse has its origin among many ancient Native American tribes, including the Iroquois, Cherokee, and Choctaw. For some tribes, the "Creator's Game" (called so because it was thought to be a divine gift) prepared young warriors for battle, strengthening them spiritually, physically, and mentally. Today, the lacrosse field remains a battlefield-like ground, demanding physical strength, grit, stick-skills, and endurance. The Wilberforce Lacrosse program, offered for both boys and girls in MS and US, competes with local public and private schools. NJSIAA competition includes similar sized and skilled varsity (and some junior varsity) programs within the area. As with all sports at The Wilberforce School, athletes and coaches in the lacrosse program are committed to the common goals of developing disciples of Christ through the tool of athletics; training athletes toward the pursuit of victory in the arena, growing more virtuous in that pursuit; and competing in a manner worthy of the gospel.
Girls Lacrosse
A classic American sport, Lacrosse has its origin among many ancient Native American tribes, including the Iroquois, Cherokee, and Choctaw. For some tribes, the "Creator's Game" (called so because it was thought to be a divine gift) prepared young warriors for battle, strengthening them spiritually, physically, and mentally. Today, the lacrosse field remains a battlefield-like ground, demanding physical strength, grit, stick-skills, and endurance. The Wilberforce Lacrosse program, offered for both boys and girls in MS and US, competes with local public and private schools. NJSIAA competition includes similar sized and skilled varsity (and some junior varsity) programs within the area. As with all sports at The Wilberforce School, athletes and coaches in the lacrosse program are committed to the common goals of developing disciples of Christ through the tool of athletics; training athletes toward the pursuit of victory in the arena, growing more virtuous in that pursuit; and competing in a manner worthy of the gospel.
Track & Field
Running, throwing, and jumping events, like those offered in track and field, have long been part of the historic foundations of a classical education.  In fact, the word we use today for academic curriculums, is rooted in the latin word "currere", which means "to run" or "to race." In ancient Rome, the curriculum was the racing track. It's fitting then, that The Wilberforce School track program, more than any other athletic program at the school, has achieved remarkable success at the state and national level.  In June, 2023, The Wilberforce School girls 4 x 800 took the NJSIAA Meet of Champions (public and private) championship, posting a winning time of 9:16:22!  The track and field teams (both MS and HS) continue to develop athletes who compete at the state and national level, with several runners competing at the collegiate level after they graduate from Wilberforce. Like the Cross-Country program at Wilberforce, the track and field program is marked by a strong sense of camaraderie and team unity, the team often bonding over shared meals after grueling workouts. As with all sports at The Wilberforce School, athletes and coaches in the track program are committed to the common goals of developing disciples of Christ through the tool of athletics; training athletes toward the pursuit of victory in the arena, growing more virtuous in that pursuit; and competing in a manner worthy of the gospel.

Upper School Sports

Boys Lacrosse
A classic American sport, Lacrosse has its origin among many ancient Native American tribes, including the Iroquois, Cherokee, and Choctaw. For some tribes, the "Creator's Game" (called so because it was thought to be a divine gift) prepared young warriors for battle, strengthening them spiritually, physically, and mentally. Today, the lacrosse field remains a battlefield-like ground, demanding physical strength, grit, stick-skills, and endurance. The Wilberforce Lacrosse program, offered for both boys and girls in MS and US, competes with local public and private schools. NJSIAA competition includes similar sized and skilled varsity (and some junior varsity) programs within the area. As with all sports at The Wilberforce School, athletes and coaches in the lacrosse program are committed to the common goals of developing disciples of Christ through the tool of athletics; training athletes toward the pursuit of victory in the arena, growing more virtuous in that pursuit; and competing in a manner worthy of the gospel.
Girls Lacrosse
A classic American sport, Lacrosse has its origin among many ancient Native American tribes, including the Iroquois, Cherokee, and Choctaw. For some tribes, the "Creator's Game" (called so because it was thought to be a divine gift) prepared young warriors for battle, strengthening them spiritually, physically, and mentally. Today, the lacrosse field remains a battlefield-like ground, demanding physical strength, grit, stick-skills, and endurance. The Wilberforce Lacrosse program, offered for both boys and girls in MS and US, competes with local public and private schools. NJSIAA competition includes similar sized and skilled varsity (and some junior varsity) programs within the area. As with all sports at The Wilberforce School, athletes and coaches in the lacrosse program are committed to the common goals of developing disciples of Christ through the tool of athletics; training athletes toward the pursuit of victory in the arena, growing more virtuous in that pursuit; and competing in a manner worthy of the gospel.
Track & Field
Running, throwing, and jumping events, like those offered in track and field, have long been part of the historic foundations of a classical education.  In fact, the word we use today for academic curriculums, is rooted in the latin word "currere", which means "to run" or "to race." In ancient Rome, the curriculum was the racing track. It's fitting then, that The Wilberforce School track program, more than any other athletic program at the school, has achieved remarkable success at the state and national level.  In June, 2023, The Wilberforce School girls 4 x 800 took the NJSIAA Meet of Champions (public and private) championship, posting a winning time of 9:16:22!  The track and field teams (both MS and HS) continue to develop athletes who compete at the state and national level, with several runners competing at the collegiate level after they graduate from Wilberforce. Like the Cross-Country program at Wilberforce, the track and field program is marked by a strong sense of camaraderie and team unity, the team often bonding over shared meals after grueling workouts. As with all sports at The Wilberforce School, athletes and coaches in the track program are committed to the common goals of developing disciples of Christ through the tool of athletics; training athletes toward the pursuit of victory in the arena, growing more virtuous in that pursuit; and competing in a manner worthy of the gospel.
Strength & Conditioning
Students will learn how to safely train in the weight room and also train outdoors. We will improve flexibility, strength, speed, agility, and endurance. This program is for serious athletes who really want to get stronger and faster. Participating in a strength and conditioning program requires maturity and a good work ethic.