​​Hoover Named Starting Quarterback for North-South Football Classic

​​Hoover Named Starting Quarterback for North-South Football Classic

By Jenna Flake

April 23, 2026

Sparta High School senior Shane Hoover has earned one of the highest honors in New Jersey high school football: selection as the starting quarterback for the 2026 North-South Football Classic.

He was selected to play in the Phil Simms North-South All-Star Football Classic, which will take place on June 20th at TCNJ. He was one of only 90 players from across the state chosen to participate in this prestigious game. From that group, just 40 athletes were selected to receive a school visit that included interviews and special recognition. During this visit, he was honored with an award from the NJ Army National Guard, recognizing his embodiment of the core values of duty, determination, and dedication.

Hoover’s selection caps off a remarkable high school career at Sparta. By the end of this season, he will graduate as the program’s all-time leader in both passing yards and touchdown passes—an achievement that reflects years of dedication, consistency, and high-level performance.

According to Coach Marchiano, “Throughout his time at Sparta High School, Hoover has been known not just for his strong arm and football IQ, but also for his poise under pressure and ability to elevate those around him.” Coaches and teammates alike have praised his work ethic and commitment to the program. Reflecting on the people who shaped his journey, Hoover expressed deep gratitude, saying, “I’m grateful for the coaches, teammates and family members who helped shape me to the man I am today. In particular, I’d like to give the biggest thank you to Coach Marchiano for trusting me each Friday Night to lead the team. Week 5 of my sophomore year (first varsity start) he didn’t just hand me the position, he gave me the responsibility and a belief that I hadn’t even seen in myself at the time. That decision pushed me to grow up fast and to lead the right way. I am forever grateful for Coach Marchiano.” 

While football has been a defining part of his high school experience, Hoover’s athletic journey is far from over. Next year, he will attend Seton Hall University, where he will continue his career as a member of the baseball team.

Hoover’s accomplishments have left a lasting mark on Sparta athletics, and his selection to the North-South Football Classic serves as a fitting tribute to his hard work and success. As he prepares to take the field one final time in a Sparta uniform, the community celebrates both his achievements and the bright future ahead.

Flag Football Kickoff

Flag Football Kickoff

April 2, 2026

by The Oracle Staff/ Alyssa Ciaburri

On Wednesday, April 1, Sparta High School made history as the varsity flag football team

played in its first ever game against Pope John, and it definitely lived up to the hype.

Senior players include Alyssa Ciaburri, Alex Maresca, Millie Dobbs, Mica Azcona,

Alyssa Wainwright, Kayla Johnson, Charlotte Codjoe, Ava Barone, Samantha Vasquez,

Brielle Norris, Tegan Sherlock, and Peyton Jarvis, Leah Guilino, and Alex Radcliffe. 

From the start, both teams came out strong, bringing energy and excitement to the field.

Sparta showed great teamwork on both offense and defense, with players stepping up

in big moments and keeping the game close the entire time. The sidelines were full of

support, and the crowd created an electric atmosphere

for such an important game.

"On offense, it is a little harder to get a pass off, but on defense - we got the quarterback

as fast as we could and pulled a lot of flags." - Alyssa Ciaburri

After a competitive back and forth battle, the game ended in a tie.

While there was no official winner, it was still a huge moment for Sparta and a great

way to kick off the program’s first season. This game was about more than the score.

It marked the beginning of something new. Sparta’s varsity flag football team is

officially here, and this is just the beginning.

Broadway Comes to SHS Stage

Broadway Comes to SHS Stage

April 2, 2026

by Jenna Flake

(photos courtesy of G. Muth/J. Flake/J. Hamilton)

Students spent weeks preparing for their performance on "Broadway Night" on Tuesday, March 31, and it showed. The night featured a mix of solos, duets, and full group numbers, all inspired by popular Broadway shows. Each act brought its own energy to the stage, and the audience responded with constant support and applause.

More than just a performance, the night had a strong sense of purpose. Between songs, it was clear that each song offered a deep connection to the students’ favorite stage productions. 

All proceeds from the concert will go toward the Mark Inga Memorial Scholarship. The scholarship will be awarded at the Spring Choir Concert on May 20 and will support students in the music program, helping to keep his memory alive in a lasting way.

Broadway Night was not only a showcase of talent, but also a reminder of how music can bring people together and create something meaningful.