Bridgewater-Raritan Middle School To Host 25th Annual Big Nick Classic Basketball Game

BRIDGEWATER, NJ — Bridgewater-Raritan Middle School will host its 25th annual Big Nick Classic basketball game on Feb. 26.

The event, sponsored by the Middle School Student Council, honors Nick Klecz, a teacher and coach who served the district for nearly 40 years. The game pits the school's students against the faculty.

The Middle School gymnasium is expected to be full for the event. Doors will open at 6 p.m., with the game scheduled to tip off at 6:30 p.m. Proceeds from the game will support scholarships and fund upgrades for the Middle School.

Meghan Wilkinson and Kim Pratt, Co-Advisors of the Bridgewater-Raritan Middle School Student Council, spearhead the basketball game.

Wilkinson described the Big Nick Classic as an important tradition. She said it is played in honor of Klecz and also remembers Dan Grigal and Augie Lorio, whom she described as legendary players and beloved coaches at the Middle School.

"This is a fun night for staff, students, and families to come together for some friendly competition and to honor those who are not forgotten. It's a memorable evening that brings our school and community together," said Wilkinson.

Math Teacher Mike Geremia will guide the faculty team, which aims for a repeat victory after ending the students' three-year winning streak last year with a 46-45 score.

Middle School Principal Megan Corliss will coach the students' squad. Both teams have been practicing after school to prepare for the game.

Geremia, who is playing in his 14th Big Nick Classic, expressed his enjoyment of the event. He claimed during a recent practice, "I love it. I look forward to it every year. This is such a huge event for the Middle School, and we'll probably have 1,000 people here. It is such a great community event."

Evan Rosenberg, a Special Services Teacher in his first year at the Middle School, will compete in his first Big Nick Classic.

"What I know is that this game is a great cause, and kids get into it," said Rosenburg.

He added, "And it is great that we are around the skids outside the classroom."

Rosenberg also shared his competitive spirit, stating, "I am here to win. Whatever it takes."