Locals to Test Hoop Dreams Against NFL Players in Benefit Games

Back in the day, professional football players were known for their bulk more than their athleticism, while players today are able to do much more. But the question remains: how is the typical football players' jump shot?

Area residents can find out Friday and Saturday when six NFL players, including Darnell Stapleton, a former Pittsburgh Steeler and Union resident, come to Watchung Hills Regional High School to take on all comers.

If you think you've got game, get your team registered to play Saturday, when the NFL team accepts community teams (youth groups can play, too), while Friday's games will pit teams of Watchung Hills students, teachers—and even one led by Principal Thomas DiGanci—all to raise money for the school's All School Council.

The players will be available for autographs before the games, from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. Friday, with tip-off at 7:30 p.m., and at 5 p.m. Saturday, with tip-off at 6:30 p.m.

Tickets are $15, or $25 for both days, and can be purchased at www.whhsgamenight.eventzilla.net—event organizer Maureen Kelly said a minimum commitent of 175 tickets is required for each day, so be sure to order before noon Friday.    

Stapleton was a standout player at Rutgers in the 2005 and 2006 seasons, playing at center. He received the Rimington Trophy, college football's top award for centers, and Rutgers' David Bender Trophy, given to the team's best offensive lineman.

Stapleton then joined the Steelers for the 2007 season, but didn't see much action until the following season, where he helped key the team's Super Bowl-winning offense. An injury set back his career, but he has played in the United Football League's Florida Tuskers and was briefly signed to the New England Patriots.