KJS United capped off a dominant postseason run on Mar. 9 at the Prudential Center, defeating North Hunterdon-Voorhees, 5–1, to secure their second consecutive NJSIAA Public Co-Op state championship. The Kinnelon-Jefferson-Sparta tri-op left little doubt throughout the playoffs, outscoring opponents 26–5 while combining consistent offensive production with a standout defense.
KJS began their championship run with a controlled 3–1 victory over Parsippany Hills. KJS dictated the pace early and limited Parsippany Hills to just 12 shots on goal. Goals were scored by seniors Cormac Gibbons and Alex Roslan, along with standout junior Brayden Sisco. The performance set the tone for a postseason built on dynamics: limiting their opponents’ opportunities while capitalizing on scoring chances.
The team’s defensive composure was paired with an offensive outburst in the quarterfinals, as KJS defeated West Milford-Pequannock, 8–2. Senior Max Rodriguez led the way with four goals, while Sisco added a hat trick. The team built a lead early and maintained control through consistent pressure and efficient puck movement.
Then, KHS headed into the semifinals against Paramus-Lyndhurst-Manalapan (PML), earning a 5–1 win. Despite holding a 10–5 advantage in shots, KJS trailed 1–0 after the first period on a deflected goal.
“We had good positioning—they got a lucky tip,” Head Coach Jeff Myhren said. “It was no big deal. We told the guys to shake it off and come out fast, and those first two shifts in the second period, we were flying.”
The response came early in the second period, as Sisco scored to tie the game. Senior Eddie Brown later scored to give KJS a 2–1 lead heading into the third period, where Sisco completed his hat trick, and KJS added onto their lead.
“I think we played really well,” Rodriguez said. “We came out a little slow, but in the second and third, we turned it up and got the job done. The pressure just makes you lock in more.”
KJS carried that momentum into the state sectional final, where KJS delivered one of its most complete performances of the season, shutting out Mount Olive-Hopatcong-Hackettstown (MOHOHA), 5–0. The defense shone, allowing just 13 shots on goal and limiting quality chances for MOHOHA.
KJS focused on slowing down MOHOHA’s transition game, preventing clean entries, and forcing play to the outside. Offensively, KJS capitalized on its opportunities. Sisco and Brown each scored twice, while senior Michael Pandiscia added another goal. Much of the scoring came from sustained time on offense and quick puck movement.
That performance set up the state championship game at the Prudential Center against North Hunterdon-Voorhees. The opening period was competitive, with both teams creating chances but neither able to capitalize. KJS generated pressure on offense, while senior goaltender Stefan Filewicz handled several shots to keep the game scoreless.
KJS broke through in the second period, with Rodriguez opening the scoring, and Sisco followed soon after to make it 2–0. The quick sequence shifted momentum, but North Hunterdon responded later in the period with a breakaway goal, cutting the lead to 2–1 heading into the third.
“Our team is way better under pressure. I feel like we perform better and we’re just a better team when the game’s on the line.” Sisco said. That confidence was evident as KJS continued to apply pressure and control the pace of the game heading into the third period.
In the final period, KJS extended its lead on a power play, with Sisco scoring to make it 3–1. From there, KJS controlled play and limited North Hunterdon’s opportunities. Sisco later completed his hat trick, and senior Cody Sutton added a goal to make it 5–1.
Filewicz finished with 27 saves in the championship game, helping KJS maintain control during key stretches under immense pressure.
“Our team rises to the occasion.” Coach Myhren said. “The bigger the stage, the better we play.”
Throughout the postseason, KJS established itself as a team built on consistency and control. They effectively limited scoring chances, controlled possession, and showcased a balanced offensive attack, with Sisco delivering 3 hat tricks throughout the playoffs and Rodriguez and Brown providing crucial depth. KJS not only secured its second consecutive state title but also capped off a remarkable postseason run that highlighted its identity as one of the best teams in New Jersey.
