Update on Pro Bono Emergent Appeal on Behalf of Manasquan Basketball Team- Appellate Division Decision

Clark Law Firm Statement on the Appellate Result

Manasquan Basketball- Appellate Division decision

Appellate Division Makes Final Decision on Pro Bono Action for Manasquan Boy’s High School Varsity Basketball Team – March 8, 2024

The New Jersey Superior Court, Appellate Division issued its final ruling at 7:00 pm on Friday, March 8.

The Court declined to intervene in the matter and the championship game will be played on Saturday, March 9 between Camden High School and Arts High School.  Attorney Gerald Clark of the Clark Law Firm, who served as pro bono counsel for the Manasquan team, commented,  “We disagree with the decision of the Court and maintain under these unusual circumstances, NJSIAA violated its own rules in not advancing the actual winning team to the finals.  However, we fully respect the decision.  Judge  Marczyk who issued the opinion is an excellent and fair jurist.”  Clark further commented, “Manasquan is one of the top Districts in the State and its Superintendent and Board Members are a class act.  It has been a pleasure advocating for their kids.”

Attorney Jake Antonaccio, also of the Clark Law Firm who worked on the matter commented, “This was a hard-fought battle, but not as hard as the boys on Camden and Manasquan played in the semifinal game.  We wish Camden and Arts High School the best of luck in the finals.”

Clark concluded by saying, “Sports and litigation are very similar.  It is important to be humble in victory and gracious in defeat.  A takeaway lesson here for the kids is that life is not always fair, the best team does not always win, and sometimes the winning team does not advance to the next round.  The boys should know this is all the more reason to always stand up for what is right, fight for justice within the rules of our system, and never lose the integrity, class and respect you have shown throughout this ordeal.  These kinds of things make you stronger and will prepare you for life’s challenges.  Go Big Blue!”