Young New Jersey football coach making a big first impression

Tommy Farrell is the new head football coach at Manchester High School. At 27, he is one of the youngest head coaches in New Jersey high school sports.

He's already led his team to two quick victories right out of the gate.

Their first victory was an impressive opening game win over Lakewood, followed by a one-touchdown victory over Toms River East.

What makes this start to the football season impressive is not his age or even the wins.

It's his character, attitude, and dedication to helping these young men develop and grow into hard-working responsible young men.

Tommy is one of the most focused, driven, and likable young men you could ever meet.

via Tommy Farrell

He was a producer at New Jersey 101.5 for a few years during his college years and beyond.

He grew up watching his dad coach football on the sidelines at Monsignor Donovan High School and Monmouth University. Football has been a big part of his life since he could walk or run.

He played at Stonehill College in Massachusetts and then went on to earn a master's degree from the Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University.

I've kept in touch with Tommy over the last few years even after he left the station and had him over for dinner with a family member.

via Tommy Farrell

You can't help but be impressed with him when you're in his presence. He's an engaging, passionate and caring man. Exactly the kind of leader that students and athletes NEED to be around when they're in high school.

Aside from all the wins, we're sure Tommy will rack up in his coaching career, it's all the young people he will undoubtedly influence in an immeasurably positive way.

Photo Designed by Dom Mincieli

Opinions expressed in the post above are those of New Jersey 101.5 talk show host Dennis Malloy only.

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These are the best hiking spots in New Jersey

A trip to New Jersey doesn't have to be all about the beach. Our state has some incredible trails, waterfalls, and lakes to enjoy.

From the Pine Barrens to the Appalachian Trail to the hidden gems of New Jersey, you have plenty of options for a great hike. Hiking is such a great way to spend time outdoors and enjoy nature, plus it's a great workout.

Before you go out on the trails and explore some of our listeners' suggestions, I have some tips on hiking etiquette from the American Hiking Society.

If you are going downhill and run into an uphill hiker, step to the side and give the uphill hiker space. A hiker going uphill has the right of way unless they stop to catch their breath.

Always stay on the trail, you may see side paths, unless they are marked as an official trail, steer clear of them. By going off-trail you may cause damage to the ecosystems around the trail, the plants, and wildlife that live there.

You also do not want to disturb the wildlife you encounter, just keep your distance from the wildlife and continue hiking.

Bicyclists should yield to hikers and horses. Hikers should also yield to horses, but I’m not sure how many horses you will encounter on the trails in New Jersey.

If you are thinking of bringing your dog on your hike, they should be leashed, and make sure to clean up all pet waste.

Lastly, be mindful of the weather, if the trail is too muddy, it's probably best to save your hike for another day.

I asked our listeners for their suggestions of the best hiking spots in New Jersey, check out their suggestions:

Gallery Credit: Jordan Jansson

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