Paterson, New Jersey, is home to a vibrant high school sports scene, with institutions like Eastside High School and John F. Kennedy High School leading the charge. These schools offer a wide array of athletic programs that not only promote physical fitness but also instill values of teamwork, discipline, and school spirit among students.
Eastside High School: Home of the Ghosts
Established in 1926, Eastside High School has a storied history in athletics. The school’s teams, known as the Ghosts—a nod to the football field’s location on a former cemetery—compete in the Big North Conference. Eastside offers sports across three seasons:
Fall Sports
- Cheerleading
- Cross-Country (Co-Ed)
- Band/Marching Unit
- Football
- Volleyball (Boys & Girls)
- Soccer (Boys & Girls)
Winter Sports
- Cheerleading
- Basketball (Boys & Girls)
- Bowling (Co-Ed)
- Wrestling
- Indoor Track
Spring Sports
- Baseball
- Golf (Co-Ed)
- Softball
- Tennis (Boys & Girls)
Eastside’s commitment to athletics is evident in its comprehensive programs that cater to a wide range of student interests and abilities.
John F. Kennedy High School: Home of the Knights
John F. Kennedy High School, known as the Knights, also boasts a robust athletic department. Competing in the Big North Conference, the school offers a variety of sports throughout the academic year:
Fall Sports
- Cheerleading
- Cross-Country (Co-Ed)
- Band/Marching Unit
- Football
- Volleyball (Boys & Girls)
- Soccer (Boys & Girls)
Winter Sports
- Cheerleading
- Basketball (Boys & Girls)
- Bowling (Co-Ed)
- Wrestling
- Indoor Track
Spring Sports
- Baseball
- Golf (Co-Ed)
- Softball
- Tennis (Boys & Girls)
The Knights’ athletic programs emphasize skill development, sportsmanship, and academic achievement, providing students with opportunities to excel both on and off the field.
Unified Sports Initiatives
In a significant step towards inclusivity, Paterson Public Schools introduced a unified flag football team in March 2026. This initiative, supported by the New York Jets and Special Olympics Unified Champion Schools, brings together students from Paterson STEAM High School and the STARS Academy/T.I.E.S. Program. Superintendent Dr. Laurie W. Newell highlighted the program’s role in fostering a culture of inclusion that extends beyond the field.
Community Engagement and Support
The success of Paterson’s high school sports programs is bolstered by strong community support. Local residents, alumni, and businesses actively participate in events, fundraisers, and games, creating a vibrant atmosphere that celebrates student-athletes’ achievements. This community involvement not only enhances school spirit but also provides valuable resources and encouragement for the athletes.
Paterson’s high school sports programs continue to thrive, offering students avenues for personal growth, teamwork, and community engagement. The dedication of schools like Eastside and John F. Kennedy High Schools to athletic excellence ensures that the city’s rich sports legacy will endure for generations to come.