On Saturday, August 30, the Southern Rams once again faced Highland Regional in the annual Battle at the Beach at Rowan University.
The 2025 Battle at the Beach was a three-day high school football showcase held from August 28–30, featuring nationally ranked teams such as Bergen Catholic and IMG Academy. Organized by the West Jersey Football Coaches Association, the event included 10 games played between Carey Stadium and Rowan University’s Wackar Stadium.
For the second straight year, the Rams defeated the Tartans at Battle at the Beach. The win also marked the seventh consecutive season-opening victory for Southern. But despite Saturday’s dominant 40–8 performance, the Rams left feeling like there was more work to be done.
Southern head coach Chuck Donohue Sr. emphasized that while his team excelled in all three phases of the game, there is still room for improvement. “We still have the ability to play better,” Donohue said. “There were some mistakes today. We’re leaving here wanting to get back on the practice field and fix some things.” He noted that with upcoming matchups against Jackson Memorial and Toms River North, the Rams need to keep improving every day, not just every week.
Southern quarterback Carson Abbato went 7-of-10 for 61 yards, while wide receiver Chris Raub hauled in two touchdowns.
Southern wide receiver Ace Williams was named game MVP. Williams said the honor meant a lot, especially after the team graduated a large senior class. “We had to come together as a team to keep moving, stay motivated, and put in the work every day,” he said, adding that the Rams are determined to keep pushing forward throughout the 2025 season.
The Rams will host Jackson Memorial on Friday, September 5, in what promises to be one of the most intense matchups of the season.
