In the heart of Newark, New Jersey, Shabazz High School football isn’t just a program—it’s a beacon of resilience, community, and unrelenting spirit. At 80 Johnson Avenue, the Bulldogs take the field at Shabazz Stadium, where Friday nights pulse with the energy of a city that lives for its team. This isn’t just high school football; it’s a legacy forged in adversity, triumph, and the pursuit of greatness in New Jersey’s ultra-competitive Group 2 landscape. In this 1,600-word deep dive, we’ll unravel Shabazz’s storied history, break down their 2024 season, spotlight the players carrying the torch, and reveal what makes this program a cornerstone of Newark pride. Plus, we’ll touch on some standout NFL and NBA performances—like the 76ers vs. Knicks and Saints vs. Buccaneers matchups—to celebrate athletic excellence across the board. Ready to feel the Bulldog spirit? Let’s hit the field.
What Makes Shabazz High School Football Unique?
New Jersey football is a battleground of talent and tradition, and Shabazz High School stands as a titan in the mix. Named after civil rights icon Malcolm X (El-Hajj Malik El-Shabazz), the school carries a legacy of empowerment that bleeds into its athletics. The Bulldogs aren’t just playing for wins; they’re playing for pride, opportunity, and a chance to rise above challenges in one of America’s toughest urban environments.
What sets Shabazz apart? It’s the alchemy of heart, hustle, and history. With multiple state championships and a knack for producing college-bound athletes, the Bulldogs have earned their stripes in the NJSIAA. From the roar of the stands to the grit on the gridiron, Shabazz football is Newark’s heartbeat—a program where every snap tells a story of determination.
Shabazz High School Football: The Essentials
Here’s the lowdown on the Shabazz Bulldogs:
| Aspect | Details |
| Location | Newark, NJ, at 80 Johnson Ave |
| School Size | Urban campus in Newark Public Schools, ~800 students |
| State Championships | 1981, 1994, 1997, 2002 (Group 2, NJSIAA) |
| Recent Ranking | No. 45 in NJ (MaxPreps, 2024 season) |
| Notable Players | Ibn Ali (RB), Khalil Mulholland (QB), Rah’keem Gladden (DL, Rutgers) |
| Head Coach | Nazair Jones, a Shabazz alum with a passion for mentoring |
| Rivalries | Weequahic, East Orange, West Side |
| 2024 Record | 8-4, fell 28-14 to Hanover Park in Group 2 semifinals on Nov 22, 2024 |
This snapshot is just the start—let’s dig deeper into the Bulldog legacy.
A Storied Past: The History of Shabazz Football
Shabazz High School, originally South Side High, became Malcolm X Shabazz in 1972, embracing a mission of excellence that extended to the football field. The Bulldogs hit their stride in the 1980s, with their first Group 2 state title in 1981 under coach Fred Stengel. That victory sparked a golden era, with championships in 1994, 1997, and 2002 cementing Shabazz as a North Jersey powerhouse.
The 1997 squad, led by coach Al-Zahir Stovall, went 12-0, dominating Group 2 with a suffocating defense and explosive offense. These title runs weren’t just about trophies; they were about giving Newark’s youth a stage to shine, with players like Rah’keem Gladden (class of 2020) earning scholarships to Rutgers. Despite ups and downs, Shabazz remains a playoff contender, fueled by a community that never backs down.
Key Moments in Shabazz History
- 1981: First state title, a 20-6 rout, puts Shabazz on the map.
- 1997: Undefeated 12-0 season, Group 2 champs, a high-water mark.
- 2020: Rah’keem Gladden’s 1,200-yard season draws D1 recruiters. The Bulldogs’ ability to reload with local talent keeps them fierce year after year.
How Did Shabazz Football Fare in 2024?
The 2024 season was a testament to Shabazz’s grit, finishing 8-4 in the NJSIAA’s Group 2 North. The Bulldogs tore through the Super Football Conference’s Freedom Blue Division with a 5-1 mark, averaging 28 points per game. Their playoff journey showed promise—wins over Newark West Side and Waldwick set the stage—but a 28-14 loss to Hanover Park in the Group 2 semifinals on November 22, 2024, ended their championship hopes.
2024 Season Match Scores
Here’s every game from Shabazz’s 2024 campaign:
| Date | Opponent | Score | Result |
| Aug 30, 2024 | Orange | 34-14 | Win |
| Sep 6, 2024 | Lincoln | 28-7 | Win |
| Sep 13, 2024 | Weequahic | 21-24 | Loss |
| Sep 20, 2024 | West Side | 35-6 | Win |
| Sep 27, 2024 | Snyder | 42-10 | Win |
| Oct 4, 2024 | Barringer | 38-0 | Win |
| Oct 11, 2024 | Immaculata | 14-17 | Loss |
| Oct 18, 2024 | Verona | 31-13 | Win |
| Oct 25, 2024 | East Orange | 20-27 | Loss |
| Nov 1, 2024 | Newark West Side | 28-7 | Win |
| Nov 15, 2024 | Waldwick (Playoffs) | 35-21 | Win |
| Nov 22, 2024 | Hanover Park (Playoffs) | 14-28 | Loss |
Standout Games of 2024
- Sep 20 vs. West Side: A 35-6 rout showcased Shabazz’s dominant ground game.
- Nov 22 vs. Hanover Park: A tough semifinal loss, but the Bulldogs fought to the end. Ranked No. 45 in New Jersey, Shabazz proved they belong among the state’s elite.
Who Are the Stars of Shabazz Football?
Shabazz’s roster brims with talent, blending raw athleticism with Newark toughness.
- Ibn Ali – Senior Running Back
- 2024 Stats: 1,350 rushing yards, 14 TDs, 6.8 yards per carry.
- Impact: Ali’s breakaway speed and vision make him a game-changer, drawing FCS offers.
- Khalil Mulholland – Junior Quarterback
- 2024 Stats: 1,800 passing yards, 16 TDs, 300 rushing yards.
- Future: A dual-threat leader with poise, eyed by D2 programs.
- Jahmir Best – Senior Linebacker
- 2024 Stats: 95 tackles, 8 TFLs, 3 sacks.
- Legacy: The heart of the defense, setting the tone with bone-rattling hits.
These players, backed by a stingy secondary, keep Shabazz in every fight.
Connecting the Dots: Pro Sports Parallels
Shabazz’s tenacity mirrors the grit seen in professional sports. Take the Philadelphia 76ers vs New York Knicks game on January 5, 2025 (NBA regular season). Jalen Brunson led the Knicks with 28 points, 5 rebounds, and 7 assists, while Joel Embiid countered for the
Sixers with 32 points and 12 boards. The Knicks’ 112-108 win was a battle of resilience—much like Shabazz’s ability to grind out tough games.
Similarly, the New Orleans Saints vs Tampa Bay Buccaneers clash on January 5, 2025 (NFL Week 18) showcased heart. Baker Mayfield threw for 280 yards and 2 TDs for Tampa, while Saints rookie QB Jake Haener managed 210 yards and a score. Tampa’s 24-17 victory echoed Shabazz’s knack for leaning on playmakers like Ibn Ali to seal wins. These pro stats highlight the same drive Shabazz brings to the high school stage.
What’s Shabazz’s Practice Schedule Like?
Success at Shabazz starts with sweat. Here’s their typical week:
| Day | Activity | Time |
| Monday | Film study, conditioning | 3:00 PM – 5:30 PM |
| Tuesday | Full pads, offensive drills | 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM |
| Wednesday | Full pads, defensive focus | 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM |
| Thursday | Walkthrough, special teams | 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM |
| Friday | Game day – pre-game prep | Varies |
| Summer | Weight training, 7-on-7 camps | 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM |
Aligned with NJSIAA rules, this regimen builds physical and mental toughness.
How Does Shabazz Prepare for Glory?
Winning at Shabazz is a science of preparation and passion.
- Coaching Mastery Nazair Jones, a Shabazz grad, blends discipline with inspiration. His mantra—“Play for the name on the front”—unites the team.
- Training Grit
- Offseason: Speed drills and lifting at Shabazz Stadium’s weight room.
- In-Season: Precision practices hone play-calling and tackling.
- Film Room: Breaking down opponents’ tendencies sharpens strategy.
- Community Fire Newark rallies behind the Bulldogs, with 3,000+ fans packing Shabazz Stadium. Pep rallies and alumni support fuel the team’s drive.
What Are Shabazz’s Fiercest Rivalries?
Rivalries light up Shabazz’s season with extra intensity.
- Shabazz vs. Weequahic
- 2024 Result: A 24-21 loss, but a classic Newark showdown.
- Why It Matters: Bragging rights in the city are at stake.
- Shabazz vs. East Orange
- History: The 2024 27-20 loss was a thriller, continuing a heated feud.
- Edge: Shabazz’s speed often tests East Orange’s size.
How Can Fans Stay Connected?
Want to follow the Bulldogs? Here’s how:
- Live Streams: NJSIAA on Hudl or Newark Public Schools’ YouTube.
- Scores: MaxPreps or NJ.com for real-time updates.
- Social: X posts from @ShabazzBulldogs bring the hype.
Tips for Aspiring Shabazz Players
Dreaming of Bulldog glory? Here’s the playbook:
- Start Early: Play Pop Warner or middle school ball in Newark.
- Stay Eligible: Keep a 2.0 GPA for NJSIAA clearance.
- Show Out: Attend Shabazz’s summer camps to catch coaches’ eyes.
Why Shabazz Football Matters
Shabazz football is more than a game—it’s a lifeline for Newark. The program’s four state titles and countless college signees prove its impact, inspiring kids to dream big. Every tackle, every touchdown, unites a community that refuses to be counted out. In a city of fighters, the Bulldogs are champions of hope.
Fun Fact
The 1997 championship team held opponents to 8 points per game—defense defined!
Conclusion
The 2024 season didn’t end with a title, but Shabazz High School football’s fire burns hotter than ever. With stars like Ibn Ali, a visionary coach in Nazair Jones, and a city that bleeds blue and gold, the Bulldogs are poised for future glory. They’re not just a team—they’re a movement. Want to see their next chapter unfold? Follow the journey, grab a seat at Shabazz Stadium, and join the roar. Go Bulldogs!
