Butler's Bock 'Honored' to Play in All-Star Football Game

For Derek Bock, Monday's North-South All-Star Football Classic at Kean University was a great test of his skills, as both rosters were filled with players who will compete on the gridiron in college. And even though the Butler standout won’t be playing football in college, the test was well worth it.

“It was a great honor to play in this game, even though we lost,” Bock said. “I’m one of the only kids that’s not going on to play at the next level, but it’s been really fun.”

While Bock’s North squad dropped a heartbreaker, 21-14, sealed by a fourth quarter interception returned for a touchdown by Hammonton High School’s Jared Sanchez, the senior offensive lineman was appreciative of the moment.

“My last two games haven’t been wins, but it’s been awesome,” he said. “To play here and get this honor, I know it’s a big deal. I know people who have played in it and to say that I’m an alumni of the game, I’m really happy about it.”

Bock was strong at tackle for the North team, splitting duties with a second offensive line unit throughout the game. But the North offense would struggle to put up points against a very tough South defense before quarterback Matt Soltes’ fourth quarter interception.

Despite the game-altering turnover, the North defense gave the team another chance to score as a sack with 2:03 remaining when they forced a punt, giving the North the ball with under two minutes remaining.

But just as was the case for much of the night, the North offense wouldn’t fail to capitalize, as its final drive stalled inside of the 25-yard line, giving the South the 33rd Annual North-South All-Star Football Classic title.

Another highlight of the evening for Butler fans came at halftime, when coach Bob Jones was inducted into the New Jersey High School Football Hall of Fame.

Correction: An earlier version of this story said Jim Matsakis was inducted into the Hall of Fame when Butler coach Bob Jones was inducted.