River Dell WR/CB Jack Racine commits to Tufts University

River Dell Golden Hawks wide receiver/corner back Jack Racine played soccer when he was younger but from the second grade on Racine loved the game of the football and knew this is the sport he wanted to pursue. Fast-forward to his career at River Dell High School, Racine has enjoyed plenty of memorable moments.

In the 2017 North 1, Group 3 Semifinal against Northern Valley Demarest hauling in 5 catches for 59 yards and two touchdowns including the game winning score with 36 seconds lifting River Dell to a dramatic 38-34 victory. Against Ramapo in the sectional final at Met Life Stadium Racine caught four passes for 133 yards as the Golden Hawks won 28-7 and notched back-to-back state championship titles.

Despite River Dell’s defeat to the Green Raiders in the 2018 sectional final, Racine put up impressive numbers with 48 receptions for 735 yards, 11 touchdowns and on the defensive side of the ball picking off six passes earning him a spot on the 2-18 All-Bergen County first team offense.

“This has been the best four years of my life, said Racine. The amount of work and time put in and everything we did and earned. Nothing was given to us and we definitely outworked our opponents and had a great time doing it and wouldn’t want to do it with any other group of guys”

“Coach (DJ)Nimphius is the best at what he does, I love him and he has helped me so much and wouldn’t be here today without him. He is a genius and always fields a competitive team. So much more than a coach, a great model and just doesn’t help you out for the next four years but 40”

Racine is not done playing sports at River Dell yet, currently playing on the basketball team and will finish up with baseball. “All the hard work put in starts two weeks after the season ends in December and going back to the summer, Racine said. I love to keep busy and doing it for a long time. Basketball helps me out with the hand/eye coordination in football”

Once Racine graduates from River Dell in June, he will begin the next phase of his educational/athletic career at Tufts University. “They offered the best academics and look forward to continuing my football career, said Racine”

Racine is grateful for the support at River Dell and from his parents’. “There is great support from the teachers’, classmates, parents’ and town. My parents’ are my biggest supporters, motivated me from day one, pushing me, bringing me everywhere, and giving me anything I needed every step of the way and can’t thank them enough”

In closing Racine became sentimental about his football career coming to a close at River Dell. “It almost gives me chills knowing I’m going to miss walking down the path, hearing the bells going and knowing you are about to run on that field. It’s all about focus and working hard as I can”

However, Racine has a younger brother Charles who is a sophomore and following the same path and footsteps playing football, lacrosse and wrestling.