Sports Shorts

CHRIS KELLY staff East Brunswick’s Jibrtil Holmes takes the ball to the hoop during the Bears’ loss to Plainfield on Saturday at the Holiday Jubilee in Neptune.

Students at Tiger Schulman’s Karate in East Brunswick recently competed with more than 800 students in a fast-paced sparring competition at the Challenge of Champions. The Challenge of Champions was introduced in 1996 and has quickly become the largest tournament of its kind in the area, with well over 1,500 competitors. Winners from Tiger Schulman’s Karate included: Alex Bozgo, third place — 10 and 7U beginner, 86-100 pounds; Alayla Cortes, third place — 7U intermediate, 71-85 pounds; Gabriela Cortes, second place — 15U girls over 130 pounds; Emiel Duarte, second place — 10 and 7U, 101-120 pounds; Sergio Duarte, second place — men’s intermediate, 181-200 pounds; Sean Fink, third place — boys 12U beginner, 81-95 pounds; Sharon Fink, first place — women’s intermediate, 131-150 pounds; Bobby Gavares, first place — boys 10U beginner under 100 pounds; Jon Hayes, second place — boys 15U intermediate under 100 pounds; Gemini Nazareno, second place — 12U intermediate, 81-95 pounds; Marsha Nazareno, first place — girls 15U, 116-130 pounds; Rich Prisco, first place — senior men, 166-180 pounds; Christina Salazar, second place — women’s black belt over 150 pounds.

Monroe’s 10-year-old travel basketball team completed a successful weekend going 2-0 in the opening round of the South Brunswick Tournament. In Friday’s game against a determined North Brunswick squad, Monroe won, 34-25. Monroe was led by Matthew Gorham, Mike Mahmoud and Alex Vizcaino, who combined for 24 points. Sharp-shooting Mike Mahmoud hit three, three-pointers for Monroe. Mike Scarrone, Xavier Selby, Jimmy Small and Mike Walp contributed key rebounds and aggressive defense while contributing 10 points of offense.

Saturdays game was played against a high-powered Holmdel squad. Monroe was victorious by the score of 34-26. Monroe trailed 9-2 in the opening quarter, but fought back with a determined defense and closed the gap to 11-9 by halftime, with Mike Scarrone hitting a basket at the buzzer. In the second half Monroe’s offense picked up steam, scoring 25 points and limiting Holmdel to 15. Monroe’s offense was led by Matt Gorham, Alex Vizcaino and Jimmy Small, who combined for 23 points. Monroe’s cause was aided by timely foul shooting by Jimmy Small and Alex Vizcaino, who were 7-of-8 from the foul line. Mike Walp and Nick Dini contributed key defensive plays, rebounds and assists.

Milltown Little League will hold registration for the 2004 season on Jan. 14 and 15 from 6-8 p.m. for ages 5-16 at the senior citizens building, Violet Terrace. For those who cannot attend, forms may be picked up at the Milltown Library or Borough Hall and mailed to the address on the form by Jan. 15. Registration forms will be handed out in schools shortly. Please bring a copy of child’s birth certificate. For more information send e-mail to gmam3rd@aol.

ISA of New Jersey is looking for umpires for its 2004 softball programs. Its Central Jersey clinic begins in January. ASA, NSA, and Federation umpires are welcome. Experience not necessary. For more information call (732) 906-8263.