Leading New Jersey Girls' Football Players for 2026

Ramsey still has the loudest attack

If one team looks built to carry momentum straight into the new season, it is Ramsey.

• The report says Hope Ernst delivered 31 goals and 23 assists as a sophomore.
• It also says she already has 53 goals across her first two seasons.
• Lizzie Rubin is reported to be back after a season that included a state-leading 30 assists.
• Kendall Reid reportedly adds another proven scoring threat after a strong year in attack.

That kind of returning output changes matches before tactics even settle. Ramsey is not starting from scratch; it appears to be starting from an attacking platform most rivals would envy.

Rutgers Prep’s edge starts without the ball

Rutgers Prep looks dangerous for a different reason. The report says the Argonauts conceded only six goals all season, posted 15 shutouts and finished at the top of both state and national rankings. That is not just good defending. That is control.

At the heart of it is Sanda O’Neill, who is reportedly back after anchoring that back line. Goalkeeper Jordan Reigrod is also said to return, giving Rutgers Prep continuity in the two most important defensive positions. Teams with that base rarely beat themselves.

Paul VI remains firmly in the mix

Paul VI should not be overlooked. The report says Kylie Berk scored 14 goals during an unbeaten title run, while Hunter Kitzing produced 22 goals and 14 assists. That is enough proven end product to keep the program in the championship conversation.

The next step is simple: see which of these powers turns returning talent into early-season authority. Once matches begin, the first big storyline will be whether established stars keep their teams on top - or give the rest of New Jersey a target that still feels out of reach.