Bergen Travel Basketball League (BTBL)

Thank you all for your efforts this season. All of the BTBL coaches and teams are lucky to have such organized and passionate people running the league.

On a personal level, thank you for your understanding and support in making my first year as a liaison a smooth one!

Enjoy the time off... we will all be back before you know it!

Jen Rilli

Hillsdale 3/27/24

Hi Guys,

Thank you for all the work you do behind the scenes allowing us to do what we love and that is teach the game of basketball. Your story is inspiring and what we should all be striving for is creating lasting memories for players and parents.

hey - wanted to thank u for a great season! BTBL is a great asset to the community and you should be commended on its success!!!

Thanks,

Richard J. GR -

Thanks to you all for running a great league and for all your assistance throughout the season! Looking forward to next year.

Thanks for the great season. I know it takes so much work to put into a league like this and probably pretty thank-less, getting more complaints than thanks.

Thank you team, it was a pleasure being part of the league this year, looking forward to next season!

Thank you for all your efforts! I can only imagine how difficult it was to coordinate so many leagues and from my perspective it was run very smoothly and professionally! Thank you again and have a great spring!

Just wanted to let you guys know what a great job you do running the BTBL. I know it's not an easy assignment, but you guys do an amazing job! Looking foward to next season. Again, thanks for all you do!!

Jay,
Township had a great basketball season.. thank you for all the support.

Lou - 3/30/2023

I wanted to thank you for putting such a professional league together and for assisting me/Norwood Basketball in every way possible. There was not a single issue that was left unresolved,

and that’s due to your patience, flexibility, and leadership. I know I speak for Tom Musial when I say “Thank you very much!”

Thank you for your patience this season. As newcomers this was a learning curve. Our kids loved the experience. We look forward to coming back next year!

It’s been a pleasure working with you these last several years. I’ve learned a lot and always felt like we were on the same page on the important issues. Thank you.

Just wanted to thank you for all you do with the BTBL. It was our 1st year competing and it was a great experience for myself and team. Everything ran smoothly and there were no major issues with any of the fans or officials (except for the missed travel call that led to Montvale's winning shot...lolol). All kidding aside it was a fun season and I'm looking foward to next season!! Be well!!

Jay/Mike,
I just wanted to take a second to thank you on behalf of our 3^rd grade team for the great experience our boys and families had in your league this.

Jay, I also want to thank you personally for the discussions and mentorship you provided me throughout the season navigating through my first experience with basketball at this age.

Mike- honestly it’s been a lifetime of guidance, coaching, and mentorship you’ve provided to me and I am forever grateful. This year was no different and you helped me more than you know handling conflict and expectations that come along with coaching.

Thanks for everything guys and we’ll connect soon.

We have had a great run but it’s time for me to pass the torch. I will still be helping transition behind the scenes so any issues or concerns text or call me anytime.

Your program is the best. 12 years of BTBL for me. Ups and downs, Ref’s, Drama, Everything. Lol. I loved it all.

I hope you can breathe now that the season has come to an end. I just wanted to Thank you for all your hard work this season. I constantly tell my wife, "I don't know how he does it." Ringwood does really appreciate your hard work and dedication for allowing the kids to have a platform to play competitive basketball.

I hope you and your wife can take a nice long vacation and enjoy your time together.

Thank you very much for all the work this year managing the league and putting on a wonderful event yesterday for the Championship game. Whether we won or lost, the girls had a very memorable experience and a ton of fun this season.

I just wanted to let you know that in our loss tonight at Glen Rock the referees were two of the best I’ve seen in my years. I probably only questioned two plays and both times they came over and explained the calls calmly. Fantastic job by them. Good job picking them for the playoffs. Thanks for a fun season.

Mike

I want to start by thanking you for everything. My team and I have had a great experience in the BTBL the last 5 years and that is due in large part to the work you put in and the culture and environment that you encourage and facilitate.

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Just wanted to thank you for doing such a great job with the program this year. I’m so glad we got to have a season and I appreciate all the hard work and organization that went into making it happen!

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Hi Jay, Just wanted to say a great big thank you for pulling this season together. I understand these crazy times we are living in, made things even worse. So thank you for all your time and effort!! I really appreciate it Rob Mangini Boys' 8th Grade Coach - Old Tappan

Hi Jay - Thank you for the email. I coached with River Vale for the past 7 seasons (boys), and concluded the 8th grade season. I am a math teacher at NV-Old Tappan, and I have coached various sports there for 26 years. Hopefully, I have many more! I want to say that you really do a good job with the BTBL; you have an excellent way of getting messages across to coaches, parents and town BB leaders. This is such a well run league, and there is no question that you are the one who makes sure everything is run smoothly. I am sure that very few people are aware of how much you do for this league. Have a great summer and stay safe! Thank you - Tom Quinn (now retired) River Vale Basketball Coach 6/30/2020

Hello Jay, I wanted to reach out and tell you how much I appreciated the BTBL. My daughter is going to high school so her travel bball career is over (as well as my bball coaching). Thank you for creating and maintaining a high quality youth sports travel program that has produced a lifetime of memories, lessons, and friends for our teams. We will sincerely miss it and will always be proud of our time in it. Sincerely, Mike Kappmeier Cliffside Park 6/29/2020

Thanks Jay for your very very kind words. You made my transition years ago very easy and run a top notch league! I enjoyed our many conversations and happy to still lend an ear when you need to bounce a few things around or situations. I have no doubt that you will feel the same way with Leon and Mike taking over Oradell Travel Basketball. Both are great youth volunteers with great passion for basketball. I am here for them during this transition and will help make it a very smooth transition. I continue to wish you much success with this league and the empire you created and truly enjoyed the fun competitive atmosphere that you created for so many young children throughout Bergen County. Have a great season! Moira 9/4/2019

Hello Jay, Its a little late but i want to thank you and your entire team for another great season. I really appreciate all the work the BTBL has put in to improve the program from year to year. Good luck with the adult league season. Take care, Phill Demerast Travel April 8, 2019

Hi Jay, This is an awesome thing, and while it was only my first go around working with BTBL and yourself, it has been an absolute pleasure. I am looking forward to future seasons. If you need anything moving forward, please do not hesitate to reach out. Thank you for giving our kids such a wonderful experience. Megan Schaffer, R.A., AFO Assistant Director Paramus Recreation 3/18/2019

Jay, Just a note to say thank you for a great ride over the 6 years in your league. Your speech to the kids before the game was a very nice gesture and I know Desmond and I appreciated it. Again, thank you for a great season. We finally pulled one off for Paramus. The basketball world is too small not to bump into each other again so I will see you soon. All the best. Rich Limbacher, Jr. 3/16/2019

Hi Jay, Thanks for a great season. Everything ran smoothly and it was a great experience. I really wanted to point out how awesome the refs were with the third grade girls. Thought they did a fantastic job. J O'Reilly Ramsey 3G white 3/14/2019

Hi Jay, I wanted to say thank you for a great first season with the BTBL! My girls had a great season and so much credit goes to you and your staff for all the hard work that goes into making this league run so smoothly. Thank you for meeting my expectations and more. And thank for accommodating my requests! Also, I wanted to share that the refs we had for the Ramsey game last night were awesome! Please let them know I am appreciative of the job they did officiating. Thank you again! Colleen North Haledon 4G ?? 3/14/2019

Jay, I just wanted to thank you for another wonderful season. It was nice that we made the playoffs. It was nicer that we gave Secaucus a tougher match than the first time we played them. Thank you again for all your help this season! Barnett Westwood 5th Grade Girls 3/14/2019

Hi Jay, As I was telling you the other night when I met you , having had boys and girls go through the BTBL, its the best and fairest league of all sports my kids did: baseball, football, soccer, and lacrosse. It's nice when most game are competitive :) Thanks again! Tom Buono Oradell 6th Grade Girls Coach 3/14/2019

Thank you for all of your time and hard work! We understand the time and commitment it takes to make all of the BTBL season run as smoothly as possible. It takes individuals like you all to make this league the best it can be. Tenafly is very grateful. Cordially, D.R. 1/10/2019

Thanks Jay This is one of the main reasons I "love" your league. Its about the kids getting better and being competitive. Thanks again CN (West Milford B7) 1/8/2019

Jay, its hard to encapsulate all the great feelings I have for the BTBL. My time as a TL and a coach in the BTBL has been very rewarding in many ways. I am so thankful to have had the opportunity to coach my daughter and her friends, along with my great friend and asst Ben Schoolsky, in this fun and competetive league for 5 years. We reached the finals once and the semi finals 3 times. Every year was very exciting because we always felt like we had a good chance to win it all. This I feel is due to all of your hard work to ensure the BTBL is a fair and balanced league. Thank you for providing such a great league for us and for Bergen County. I'm glad the BTBL has been so successful and keeps growing. Regards, Pete Stonitsch 9/6/2018

Hi Jay, You must be happy with the way our division was this year. Every game was a battle. We were in all of our games and I think the flighting was perfect. I can't say enough how much I enjoyed coaching and playing in BTBL. I hope all the parents and kids know that what you do with the league is so important to player development. I saw that you are trying to get the younger age groups to play more man defense.That is a great idea (my humble opinion 3rd to 5th no zone defense) I coached my group of kids since 3rd grade and when I started I told the parents that we will only play man because it helps them develop in so many ways. I did not have a big athletic group of kids,we were physically over matched by most of our opponents but we competed because we could defend any team. It was not an easy path and my kids fought for every win. It is rewarding for me to know that when they go to high school next year they will be ready. I had sent you an e mail in the pre season about the refs. Just for the record I thought the refs called our games very fair. They let the kids play. So thanks again,my team had a ball playing in BTBL! and enjoy your off season. Mike Wallace Ringwood boys Air Force 8th 3/26/2018

Jay, Thank you for providing Paramus with a quality league to participate in. Sue Recreation Director Borough of Paramus 3/22/2018

Thanks Jay It was a blast and all of our teams had a great time Thanks for all your help as well as your team! CHRISTOPHER NICHOLS West Milford - 3/21/2018

Jay, As North Arlington was a new comer list year, you and your staff blew us away. We look forward to a long lasting relationship within this league. We couldn't be happier with the choice of moving our girls. Job well done! We can all breathe a sigh of relief....for now. Enjoy some R & R. Kelly Velez 3/21/2018

Jay, On behalf of the WCL Army 8th grade team, coaches and parents we would like to thank you for another fun season in the BTBL. Although last nights game didn't end the way we had hoped and our championship streak was broken, our boys came out winners in many other ways. The meaning of team, family and friendships won over any score on the scoreboard. Thanks for giving us the opportunity to make that happen. Best, Julie 3/16/2018

Jay. Just wanted to compliment you on the great league you run. Been away from coaching for a few years and forgot how well organized everything was. Had a newbie team and played in a division where we were able to have competitive games. Thanks. Scott , Ft. Lee Coach 3/14/2018

Jay, this was my first experience with the league and travel basketball. I wanted to thank you for all your hard work during the season. ItÂ’s a lot to do, and from my end, it was great. Most importantly, the girls had a great time. Thanks for a great season. Barnett (Westwood 4th grade girls) 3/13/2018

Hi Jay, Thank you so much for running an amazing league! John Walsh Park Ridge 6th Coast Guard Boys 3/9/2018

Hi Jay, I want to first say how enjoyable my first year as a coach and parent in the BTBL league has been! We had played CYO in previous years and are so happy we made the jump to BTBL this season. All games have been competitive and I know how much time you put into scheduling teams by division. Your hard work is greatly appreciated! John Walsh Coach - Park Ridge, 6th Boys Coast Guard 2/28/2018

Jay, Good move. This change barely affects everyone and is great for the midland park kids. I am glad you could help them out. Jay from USR 12/22/2017

Just want to thank you for taking the time to adjust the schedule... we really do appreciate it! Mark Sterinsky (Emerson girls 7) 12/18/2017

Thank you for a great BTBL season. Really appreciate the time you spent to run a smooth and efficient league. Sincerely, Alan Leipsner, Coach B6 National Guard Woodcliff Lake, NJ 3/19/2017

Hi Jay: On behalf of my coaches and the entire program, just wanted to say Thank You again for running such a great league. The experience for all the kids, win or lose, was a very positive one and that is a testament to how well you run this league. Your professionalism is second to none and you are always available to answer an email or phone call. Thanks again and looking forward to next season. Dovey Forman Paramus Broncos - 3/20/17

Jay on behalf of the Wood-Ridge program I thank you for the league and how it is run. I can say this was one of the most easiest years for me running the program and some of that has to do with how you run your league. Thanks and look forward to working with you next year. Dan 3/22/2017

Jay, Thank YOU for always working out my scheduling issues. We're happy to be a part of the BTBL. Your organization skills are top notch are always appreciated. Enjoy the off season! Sherry Wanaque - 3/22/2017

Jay, Thanks for a great 2017, as always BTBL has been the best hoops league throughout Northern NJ. I am looking forward to 2018 and hopefully expanding BergenfieldÂ’s involvement with BTBL. Hopefully you are taking a much needed vacation in the near future. John - Bergenfield Town Liaison 3/22/2017

I meant what I said earlier. Your league has giving kids the ability to play basketball at a higher level even if their level isn't the highest. You gave us and other towns the opportunity to teach basketball while playing competitive games. You preach sportsmanship and back it up by asking people who participate in the league to nominate those great people who in body that wonderful quality. Your presentation at the finals tonight was a great experience for my kids, parents, and my coaches. My kids felt like they were stars tonight and your league and their hard work made that happen. I look forward to our upcoming years in your league. I want to end by saying THANK YOU for caring about the game of basketball and even more about the kids. Rocco 4th Grade Boys and Girls coach - Dumont 3/17/2017

Hi Jay, Now that you have gotten some time to begin recovering from the season, reaching out to thank you for running a first class league. Not sure how many people understand and/or are able to appreciate how much time, effort and care goes into what you do. Life in general in Bergen County (e.g. real estate, education, recreation, restaurants . . . the list goes on and on) is the best of the best in not only the country but the world and Bergen Travel for youth basketball is one reason why. Enjoy the off season. Mike Weaver, Montvale 4/5/2106

Jay, Thanks again for all you do and running a great league. This was quite an experience for our team, considering it was our first year playing together and our first year playing travel basketball. Looking forward to next year already! See you on Sunday. Todd Kenny Head Coach Westwood 5th Grade Girls Navy Division 3/18/16

Jay, DidnÂ’t get the chance last night, but thnx for managing another enjoyable year.. Regards, Derek (Oradell girls 6th) Derek S. De Pol, CLTC 3/19/16

Thank you Jay. In all of my years coaching (I was also an umpire/referee for 10 year in NY), I have always said to myself that this is the best run league I have ever been involved with. Being that this will be my last year coaching, just wanted to let you know what a great job you have done with this league. Domingo Rodriguez Fair Lawn, 8th Grade Boys 3/3/2016

Jay, It all starts with this wonderful league that you run. Without this league we would have no travel program. I just want to thank you for everything you do and all of your hard work. John Kradenski Bergenfield Town Liaison 3/2/2016

Jay, Thank you again for mixing up my schedule. Great, competitive game with Mahwah 4 Boys. Down 1 (12-11) with 15 seconds, Secaucus misses an easy one. Mahwah comes down and scores at the buzzer. Secaucus loses 14-11. I canÂ’t thank you enough for what you did (and have done). To play a competitive game with a less than competitive team did wonders for my kids last night. Once again, great job with your league. AK 1/28/2016

Jay, Wanted to take the time to write you a note. We played a 4th Grade Girls BTBL game on this past Friday night at Smith School in Ramsey. The refs we had for the game (didn't catch their names) were fantastic. They really understood 4th grade girls basketball and beyond being good officials, were also good teachers (and psychologists too)! I caught a couple of minutes of them doing a 3rd grade game that same evening, and seemed that their approach was similar. Anyway, just felt it was worth dropping you a note. Thanks, Jeremy 4th Grade Girls Ramsey White 1/11/2016

Jay, I never met you personally ...a very appropriate and sincere message regarding Oradell.... You do a real nice professional job with the BTBL Wood-Ridge Mayor Paul Sarlo 1/10/2016

Jay, Park Ridge had a great experience in the BTBL this season. We grew from one entry the previous year to four teams this past season. Our goal is to enter teams at each of the 4th - 8th grade levels next season. The effort you make to flight the teams properly and maintain competitive games is very much appreciated. Thank you! Pat Burns Park Ridge Basketball 3/26/15

Jay, I just wanted to thank you personally, not only for running an incredible league but also for working my schedule the last two years so I could coach and see my daughter play at Villanova. The job you do is not only a difficult one but also a thankless one. Thank You Again. Bob Wilkes (Fair Lawn Boys 8th Army)

Thanks for everything Jay, this league gets better and better each year. John Kradenski 3/13/2015

Thx Jay Â– BTW Â– You are amazing Â– with everything you do between all the girlÂ’s & boyÂ’s teams & everything you have on your plate Â– that you find time to answer an email like this. Cheers, Blair Coach, Cliffside Park 12/20/2014

Jay, Thank you for all you do! You run a great league. -- Dan Davis New Milford 11/23/2014

Jay, Hope you and the family are well. Wasn't going to return but back for another season. Stayed with same team 7 the grade. Could you recommend any towns we can scrimmage? Good luck on another great season. You run a first rate league. Scott Ft. Lee - Girls Coach 10/29/14

JAY, THANKS FOR 5 GREAT YEARS OF JUNIOR BASKETBALL. YOU RUN A FANTASTIC PROGRAM AND I WISH YOU THE BEST IN THE FUTURE. IT WAS A PLEASURE DEALING WITH YOU THE PAST COUPLE OF YEARS SINCERELY. DAVE BARTECK Wood Ridge Travel Basketball 9/29/14

HI Jay, I just want to thank you for another successful BTBL season. My team and I had a great time competing in your league and we look forward to next year. Thank you Dominic Picinic New Milford - 6B Coast Guard 3/17/14

Jay I know the season is not over but with my tournament coming up I may not get a chance to say thank you for running the league the way you do. I know my decision to leave the NJJBL was the right one and not just because our teams are performing well. You run the league with a no-nonsense policy and want competitive basketball which is no easy task. I look forward to returning next season and hopefully I will have an 8th grade team to add. If you do anything over the spring or summer please let me know. Thank You Again Rich Busa Maywood Basketball 3/9/14

This is by far the best league around. No one else would jump through hoops like this to make for a more competitive environment for all the boys involved. Kudos Jay!! Ed Snoad Fair Lawn 1/17/14

Hi Jay, The season has been over now for a couple weeks, but I wanted to get this email out to you. I just wanted to thank you once again for an excellent season. The Fair Lawn boys played a number of competitive games in each of their divisions. The boys each grew as players and as a team. The preparation, fairness and organization with which you approach BTBL is unparalleled, and creates an environment where all players can learn and improve. On behalf of all the Fair Lawn boys and coaches, we thank you for yet another great season! Ed 4/10/13

Jay, I just wanted to thank you for another great season and it's been outstanding dealing with you for 3-4 years. I'm not a "basketball guy" but my journey started in 4th grade with my son saying he "wanted to be a professional basketball player." He tried out for the Sixers, didn't make it, but thanks to Ken Kasprzak's efforts in creating the Rebels, there was another alternative in Ramsey. Paperwork, scheduling and assistant coaching become my role. And the 4th grade group that went 0-13 in their first season competed for the Navy championship last year and had a competitive year in Army this year. Anyway, you run a great organization. You handle all issues in what I view as the proper spirit of youth sports. Things run like clockwork from an administrative standpoint. The flighting system works great and allows so many kids to play travel basketball at the appropriate level. Norbert was outstanding to deal with, and his crew of referees were high caliber.

So, this is my retirement speech. My son is in 8th grade and my time here is done. You can keep me as town liaison until I tell you otherwise. We're having a post-season meeting and one of several guys will step up.

All the best in the future and, again, thanks for a great experience. David Sciubba 3/22/13

Ok thanks Jay and thanks again for another great season, well done. Vincent Monaghan Westwood 3/19/13

Jay, Thank you for all you did for the league.....this league is huge and not easy to run I am sure, but you do a great job! I also want to thank you for helping me through my first year.....There is always room for improvement and now that I have my feet wet, I can implement on my end next year. Enjoy your spring and summer too! Moira Oradell 3/19/13

Hi Jay, Lenny shared your professionalism with us (the refs). I "pat you on the back" for a great job you do with your league. I was impressed when you showed up that evening in River Edge and stayed and watched Marty and I. It shows how much you care about the players, coaches, families and refs. (I hope you think we did a good job). As a ref I always say "all advice is welcome". No ref, player or coach is perfect. Most of the time we are always trying our best. Thanks Jay. Pat LaRezza (the lady ref...not many of us!) 1/28/13

Jay, Cheers to you and the great job you do as Commissioner! It is very impressive how the League has expanded and the large number of town leagues that participate. From my coaching experience last year, the games were well organized, and I imagine that it must take a lot of your time to schedule gym time, the officials, and the score-keepers. I have truly enjoyed participating in the League. Happy Holidays Marty Nice job jay.. The league is thriving. Jim Sullivan Allendale Basketball 11/23/2012

Jay Another great season!!! Thanks for all your efforts. As this is our eight grade team, and my Son will be moving on into High School, my days of coaching the boys has come to an end. I thank you for looking out and being fair to Woodcliff Lake during my run as town coordinator. It has been a pleasure being a part of the terrific league you have developed over the years. I wish you much continued success!!! If ever I can be of assistance, let me know. Stay well!! Jeffrey Benedict WCL Town Travel Coordinator 3/21/2012

Hi Jay I just wanted to reach out to you and say thank you for holding a nice tournament. My team had fun and the way you run the program it went real well. I hope next year God Willing I get the chance to coach again and hope that we could move up a league. Have a great spring and thank you again. John Ferraro Ryan Printing, Inc.

BTBL - Another successful season: Jay, Lenny, and Norbert, The Montvale Athletic League thanks you for another outstanding BTBL season. The league is very well run, competitive, and a pleasure to be part of. I want to make sure you know we appreciate your efforts running the league, always accessible, having an open ear, and securing very good quality referees every night. The BTBL success is a tribute to your team making it fun and exciting for all involved. IÂ’m already looking forward to next season. Al Iannetta Montvale - Town Liaison 3/19/2012

Subject: BTBL 2012 Championships Excellent job by you once again Jay Â– Thanks for everything!!! Mike Â– Secaucus Rec. 3/19/2012

Jay, I don't know how you choose finals refs, but I want to again put in for the positive experience we had with last night's refs in Ramsey. We have now had them back to back in high pressure games and they were exactly what youth refs should be: - First, positive with great attitudes. They ref'd 3 games in a packed, loud gym and never lost their smiles. The 7th grade game was a super tight game after 2 other tight games, and never once did they lose their edge or rush things along (game didn't end until 10pm). - Consistent and not the focus of the game. We absolutely disagreed with some calls (as it should be) but they did not overwhistle and were consistent on what was a foul and what was not. Believe me, this is not a request about refs we think favor us, it's about attitude and consistency. - Hustle/Positioning - Have no problem with calls that we disagree with when they're always made in position. Thanks for your work this year. Dave David Sciubba Ramsey Basketball Town Liaison 3/14/2012

Jay, again, big thanks for jumping in and addressing the situation. If not for that, I am not sure the Fair Lawn boys would have gotten the 4 seed in the playoffs. We really appreciate the fairness with which you approached this situation. Ed Snoad Fair Lawn Basketball 3/12/2012

I think this is great Jay. You always seem to find ways to improve an already great program. Guy, Oradell

Jay, This league is one of the best run leagues in existence and the sportsmanship is fantastic. Taking a little heat now and then is expected, however, the coaches in this league rarely go over the top. I hope I'm part of it next year. Fran BTBL Official 3/30/11

Jay, Thanks again for all the hard work this past season. My kids are luckly to play in your league, they really had a blast. Regards, Steve Demarest 3/2011

Jay, Overall, great experience for us, wish I could have gotten a few more wins but the games were all competitive, so I can't ask for anything more. Two things were particularly nice, the fact our away games were never all that far and I felt the referees were all extremely good. With that, the organization of the league through posting results, standings, schedules, quickly handling schedule changes all gave me and I'm sure my fellow coaches more time to coach and less time dealing with all the admin. I told Tom Fox I had only one regret, that we didn't join your league for 4th and 5th. Thanks for letting us in for 6th. See you next season, John Hillin 3/14/2011 Harrington Park 6th Grade

Jay, Just a quick note to thank you for a wonderful season in your BTBL. Our team placed 2nd yesterday in the finals of the 6th Grade Navy finals. We enjoyed the setting and the way in which the players were announced and also the distribution of the trophies afterward. Your website and timeliness has also been a pleasure to work with this year. Thanks again, Brian Lange GR Asst Coach 3/22/10

Hi Jay - Gary Kochakian from Park Ridge 6th grade Boys Navy here. I just wanted to say Thanks to you for what was a great Basketball season. You run a very organized league from top to bottom. Thanks Again for a great season! Gary Kochakian 3/23/10 Thanks, Jay, for a great season. We had a lot of fun throughout, and especially the championship game. I always want to commend the referees that we had specifically in the postseason. For our playoff game against Demarest I believe it was Eddie and Ben. And then in the championship vs. Hillsdale I believe it was Ben and Ricky. I referee for our town rec program, so I know well how tough a job it is, and both crews did an excellent, excellent job. Thanks again. Best regards, Don Weinstein Old Tappan 3/23/10

Jay, I wanted to take a moment before everything ends so quickly to thank you for another great season. I also like to complement the officiating this year. Sometimes you only hear bad news but the level of professionalism was superb. With so many rescheduled games, I also want to thank Dick Davis for juggling so many last minute changes with his officials always being there. Last nights playoff officiating crew was superb. Thanks again from Harrington Park, Barry 3/13/2010

Jay + Dick, Thank you both for making my 1st yr. as Westwood's coordinator go so smoothly.It was a pleasure working with you both + I'm looking foward to doing it again next yr. thanks again Jim

Jay, Washington Twp. teams are very happy with our change to your league. Hopefully we will add some girls teams next year. Have a great summer. Best regards, Dan Hopkins Travel coordinator Washington Twp 03/25/09

First time Woodcliff Lake travel coach ... Excellent league and my fifth graders really had a great experience! All the coaches seemed to smile, Win or Lose!! Sheldon Danziger

03/19/0 Hi Jay- IÂ’m attaching a photo of the 5th grade boys Air Force champs from Norwood for you to post. Once again thanks for running such a great league, it was all of our 1st time in the travel league and we all had a blast! Kevin Passante

Hi Jay! Once again, thank you for running a terrific league for these kids. We had a wonderful time and are already looking forward to next season. Best regards, Lynn DeRobertis

Jay, My team looks forward to playing on Sunday. You run a great league. Dave Passante Harrington Park 4th Grade Boys

Hello Jay. Although it didn't end the way we would have liked, my boys and I enjoyed a successful season and I like to thank you. You did a great job with the selection of all the teams in our division. For me, it's always about the competition and you created a division that, in my opinion, had great competitive balance. The games were close and exciting. That's what youth basketball ( and sports in general ) is and should be all about. On to baseball and softball for me. Enjoy the championship games! Best Regards, Ed Ghigliotty - Paramus - Head Coach

Jay, just wanted to congratulate you on another great season. The 4th grade boys had a fun time and the divisions are working great with competitive games. Looking forward to next year. Tom Musial 4th Grade Boys Navy Division Norwood

Jay: I've been meaning to drop you a line for weeks...Just wanted to thank you for running a great league; our sixth grade River Vale team had a lot of fun competing in the Army division. Took a few lumps from Old Tappan and Hillsdale, but won five games and beat Cresskill, a very strong team.....You run a first-class operation.....regards, Ian O'Connor, Bergen Record columnist..

Jay & Dick I am sending you both a thank you together because I know how closely you work together to make the BTBL such an outstanding league. I have said this before, but this is coming from someone who a long time ago lost count of how many youth teams he has coached, but the BTBL is the best run league around. From the game scheduling, to the website, to the reasonable flexibility on various issues that always seem to pop up, this league would not work as well without the two of you. The overall officiating doesnÂ’t get any better at this level, the refs are always there, they give a good effort and it seems that more often than not, you have good, qualified HS refs that I know of doing the kids games. Sometimes even college refs. What I am always impressed with is how your refs more often than not seem to do a great job of adapting to the level of play. We played close to 80 games this year between my two travel teams, so we experience and see an awful lot. With the BTBL games, the only thing I have to focus on is coaching my kids and trying to give them the most enjoyable experience possible. Unfortunately that is not always the case when we play in other environments. I know unfortunately the only time you tend to hear from people it is when there is a problem or a complaint. I just wanted to thank you for handling all the administrative stuff and giving our Old Tappan teams such a great league to play in. Thanks, Jim McLaughlin

Jay, I wanted to thank you again on behalf of Glen Rock and especially my 5th Grade Boys on a fun filled season of basketball. Best wishes & enjoy the Spring! Justin Finkel Glen Rock Basketball

Hi Jay, I just wanted to take a moment to thank you on behalf of all the teams from Haworth for the 2008 season. Once again we found the league to be extremely well run. The refs were prompt and knowledgeable, Dick did a great job with any scheduling changes and the championship games were well organized and fun for everyone. We are looking forward to participating again next year. Dan Larsen - Haworth Basketball Town Coordinator & Coach

Jay Thank you very much for this past basketball season. You run a first class league. The refs were professional and always on time. I have two kids in the league and they had a great time. Thanks for all your hard work. Regards Andy Lazarus Coach 4th and 6th grade Woodcliff Lake Boys

Jay, On behalf of Oradell Basketball and as a fellow volunteer, I want to thank you for all of your time, energy, and commitment to the travel program. It is OradellÂ’s 2nd year in the program, and we have nothing but great things to say about the job you do. ItÂ’s work just running a townÂ’s program. I canÂ’t imagine the amount of work it takes to run Bergen Travel. You enjoy what you do, and it shows. Many thanks from all of us here in Oradell. Sincerely, Guy Angione Oradell Basketball

Jay, I wanted to thank you and your gang again for putting together a great and fun tournament. Both my kids and their parents, as well as us coaches, had a great time and look forward to doing it again next year. All the coaches were professional and cordial and the gamesmanship was what it should be. Thanks again and be well. Ed Powers Secaucus Basketball

Jay, I wanted to give you some feedback on the Championship game. It was extremely well run. The 2 officials assigned to the game were the best I have seen all year. They let the girls play. The team enjoyed the trophy presentation and the 5 minute picture taking was key. It was a great move to let the 4th graders play on 10 foot baskets all year. It was an awsome experience. Paul Trager Demarest Coach

Hi Jay. I wanted to let you know that every one of the coaches I encountered this season in our Navy schedule was a real gentleman and a pleasure to deal with. It made for an enjoyable season for me and for all of the players. Thanks for having us in the league. Jim Toolen Waldwick

Jay, My girls are really exited that they made the playoffs and they want to make a banner to run thru at their game. I think they are just as exited about the banner as the game. Is it ok to do this with them??? Again, thanks for all yr efforts, this has been so positive. Les H.P. 4th grade girls

Jay: I couldn't agree more! You are looking ahead, and have also done a great job with the league this season. Kudos to you. Stephane Zavidow

Jay, Once again, thanks for your help this season. The boys and coaches had a great time, and the league was well run. Thanks, Vic Head Coach - Cresskill 4th Grade Boys

Jay, Thanks for a great season, everything ran real well couldn't ask for a more competitive division everyone had chance to win. Ray Coach River Edge 7th Grade Girls

HI JAY MY NAME IS HOWIE BONGIORNO AND I AM THE COACH FOR THE NORWOOD 5TH GRADE B-BALL TEAM AND I WANTED TO THANK YOU FOR A GREAT YEAR AND COMMEND YOU ON A VERY WELL RUN LEAGUE. THANKS AGAIN HOWIE

Jay, By the way, you did a great job running the league. Everything ran perfectly throughout the season. Thanks for the time that you put into this. DAVID

Jay, Just a quick note about the BTBL league this season. Our kids enjoyed a great year of basketball in '07. The league grew by a couple teams this year which allowed us to play a variety of teams throughout the year. It continues to be a well run and officiated league. Keep up the good work, we all appreciate it. Bruce Besserer 4th grade boys Old Tappan Dick, Thanks. This is the last Glen Rock game I'll need to coordinate with you this season. I appreciate all of your help and flexibility this year. The refs overall have been great, and have contributed to a very successful season for all of our teams. Thanks again for all of your assistance. Rob Costello Glen Rock Basketball

Jay, As you know this will be my last year with BTBL. I wanted to thank you for the high level that you have maintained with the league, even though we have recorded tremendous growth. The league is very organized, fair and includes great competition. The referees are always there and generally do a real good job, Dick Davis does a great job coordinating them. The Norwood program has grown a great deal during the past several years & even though we've done a lot to accomplish this, it would have never happened without the leadership from the BTBL. You do a great job running the league, do your best to listen & to be as fair as you can be. I will miss the times I've had with the boys I've coached, the coaches & friends (even Dick Davis...just kidding). Best regards, Pete Daniele Norwood Basketball President

Jay the Westwood girls and the girls from the other towns on my team had a great time yesterday.Thanks it was alot of fun. Jim Castle Westwood 5-6 coach

Jay, My name is Greg Boyle and I am one of the coaches for Oradell's 6th grade teams. I thought attending last nights meeting would probably be a waste of time. Boy was I wrong! I learned about 20 things I just did not know. Not just about the league but about coaching and sportsmanship at these ages and I have coached many years. I played Division One Basketball in College. (Marist College) And the best advice I ever got as a child, high school player and college player was not to take on refs. Both as a player and as a coach. You qualified this and I was so happy to hear your comments about this subject. We teach our kids, at least on our team that the refs are in the background and they are the ones who make the game official and therefore fun! In my 30+ years of playing and coaching, calls always equal out 50/50. Worry about yourself as a player and as coach and leave the refs alone. That's our rule, no exceptions! I have one suggestion. I would like to hear you speak more about your experiences re: coaching and running a league. You were very interesting and put all issues into perspective because you seem to know about all the twists and turns. It really does help a coach who is interested in teaching, what fair play is and how to grow kids! Thanks again for the meeting. Very positive, very informing! Greg Boyle Oradell 6th Grade Black - Navy Jan 9, 2007

Jay -- It's Jim McLaughlin. Unfortunately I can't be at the meeting tonight, but I want to congratulate you. I think the league is great and you do an unbelievable job! Thanks for all you do and if you need anything let me know. Best, Jim McLaughlin

Gents, Greetings! I appreciate everyoneÂ’s flexibility with the rescheduling of this game. Thanks again Jay for resolving this conflict so smoothly and quickly. Very respectfully, Kedric Dick, My compliments to you and all the referees who did the games for the travel league,both regular and playoffs.In my 45 years of coaching I have never been more impressed by a group of officials.Thanks for a great job Pete Eckert

JAY, THANKS AGAIN FOR A GREAT TOURNAMENT AND A GREAT LEAGUE! Very truly Yours, David S. Waller President and CEO J.A.B Real Estate Investment Group, LLC.

Thanks for a great season.....you did a fantastic job....see you tonight. Barry J. Zeller Executive Director Cushman & Wakefield, Inc.

Our coaches and kids had a great season. League was competitive and well run. Thank you for all your hard work. Jeffrey Love, Esq. Sills Cummis Epstein & Gross, P.C.

Jay, You are to be commended for taking action to try and make this work for the kidsÂ…..many people say that sports is for the kidsÂ…Â…few actually mean itÂ…you are among the fewÂ…Â…regards and thanks for your effortsÂ…Â….Craig Sharf/Closter

Jay - Thanks for a fun game on Sunday. I think all of the boys on both teams had a good time. Rich you're unreal, Jay. thanks so much!

I know our boys had a great time, and it seems to me all the teams and coaches would say the same. The coaches all seemed to get it, i.e. that this was all about introducing these kids to playing in games, learning how to do so, and being part of a team. Thanks from the Lakers from Woodcliff Lake... Rich Wolfin

Jay ? I was traveling yesterday on business in FL, but I just wanted to confirm our 6th Grade boys game with Tenafly has been rescheduled to Saturday 3/12 at 5 PM. Also, I want to compliment you again on how this league is run. I have been doing this for a while, I had my first CYO team 25 years ago and somehow this year I'm coaching 5 youth teams, and this league is the best run league I have been associated with. And you were right in one of your previous e-mails; a large part of it is due to the referees. You are right to pay these guys a little more, and it is worth it. Thanks for everything! Jim McLaughlin McLaughlin & Associates

Thank you for your hard work and congrats on another great season. Both my boys had a great time, as did their respective teams (4th and 6th grade). I hope the rest of your year is happy and healthy. Kevin Shanman Vice President River Edge Boys Basketball League

Testimonials