Congratulations to the eight Minisink Valley seniors who have signed NCAA Division I/II National Letters of Intent (NLI) on April 22:
Division I
Ferrah Hill, Track & Field, Iona University
“Throughout her career, Ferrah has earned seven school records, is a two -time All American, a two-time state medalist and a national champion,” said Head Coach James Beck. “Ferrah has been one of the most valuable and dependable athletes in our program over the years. No matter what event we needed filled, Ferrah was always ready to step up and compete at a high level. Her versatility is hard to come by with the ability to contribute everywhere from the 55-meter dash all the way to the 800-meter run. What truly sets Ferrah apart is the hard work, determination, and competitive mindset she brought to our team every day. Those qualities helped make her one of the top athletes in Section IX and someone her teammates could always count on.”
Kessler Hirsch, Track & Field, Binghamton University
“Kessler has been a member of our varsity track team since eighth-grade, and from the very beginning it was clear she was someone special,” said Head Coach James Beck. “Over the years, she has helped raise the standard of our program and helped us be recognized as a top program in the state. During her career, Kessler has earned 11 school records across both individual events and relays. She has also captured 25 championship titles combined at the division, county, and Section IX levels throughout indoor and outdoor track. She's had a lot of blood, sweat, and tears poured into this journey.”
Robert LaBarbera, Track & Field, University of Rhode Island
"What Robert has accomplished speaks for itself,“ said Head Coach James Beck. “He is a two- time All-American, four-time State Champion, a National Champion, and currently holds 14 school records, the most ever by one athlete in our program’s history. When Robbie joined our team as a freshman during a rebuilding period, He quickly became the cornerstone of the future success of our program. He helped set the standard, and that standard continued to rise each year as he developed into the champion and leader he is today. Robbie has led not only through his words, but through his work ethic and consistency. What makes Robbie special goes beyond the medals and records. He is the definition of a workhorse, dependable, driven, and incredibly reliable. When the pressure is high at the championship meets and a lot is on the line. He is someone we trust in those big moments of competition. Time and time again, he has delivered for his team.”
Maximillian Wickrath, Track & Field, University of Rhode Island
“Max began his track career just five months ago, and in that short time he has already made an incredible impact on our program,” said Head Coach James Beck. “It didn’t take long for the track community to recognize that something special was happening. From his very first meet, all eyes were on Max, not only in Section IX, but across the entire state. Max quickly backed up that attention with outstanding performances throughout the season. He ended it with a State Championships in the 55-meter dash. Max also played a major role in two of our biggest relay accomplishments this season, serving as the lead off leg on our 4x400 State Championship team and our Mixed 4x400 National Championship team. What makes Max’s story even more impressive is how much he has accomplished in such a short amount of time. His natural talent, willingness to learn, and competitive drive have allowed him to reach a level that top athletes often take years to reach.”
Division II
Keira Filip, Softball, Dominican University
“A senior softball leader, she exemplifies what it means to be both a captain and a role model on and off the field, said Head Coach Shana O'Gara. “Known for her strong offensive presence, she consistently delivers at the plate while inspiring her teammates through her work ethic and positive attitude. Her speed is unmatched and she is a triple threat at the plate. She has solidified a key spot in center field for us the past three seasons.”
Zach Filip, Wrestling/Football, East Stroudsburg University
“Zach is a four-time Section IX Champion, three-time state medalist --- 7th, 7th and 2nd, a two-time Eastern States placer --- 8th and 2nd, with 1,400 plus rushing yard seasons in his junior/senior years, a two-time All-State second team, and Section IX’s 2025 Large School Player of the Year,” said Head Coach Kevin Gallagher. “Zach has been an integral part of both the football and wrestling teams. He is a true team player and is consistently putting the team before himself.”
Alex Nigro, Wrestling, East Stroudsburg University
“Alex is a two-year varsity starter, a Section IX runner-up and a 2026 state qualifier,” said Head Coach Kevin Gallagher. “Alex is the kind of athlete who shows up every day ready to work and is always looking to improve his skills. He is willing to put his body on the line for the success of his team.”
Stetson Terpak, Lacrosse, Dominican University
“Stetson Terpak has been a valuable member of our program,” said Head Coach Chad Lakeman. “He was named All-Section short stick defensive midfielder second team and was captain in his junior and senior year. Stetson has a calm preparedness that has been an outstanding example for his teammates. He’s willing to do what is necessary to get himself ready to compete and lead his team especially by example. Regardless of the circumstances, he stays focused and unshakeable. All of these qualities have made him an outstanding captain.”
