When freshman Matthew Merlino entered Pascack Hills, he immediately knew what he wanted to pursue: sports broadcasting. 

Merlino broadcasts the boys and girls home basketball games for the freshman, junior varsity, and varsity teams. He also started broadcasting the wrestling and hockey seasons. His videos can be found via PH Athletics on YouTube. 

“I just enjoy talking, especially setting up an event,” he said, “At that point is really when the broadcaster shines, especially if they have video accompanying them.”

He spoke of the challenges surrounding the games, like going back and forth between the rosters and the action. 

Merlino was also part of the Fieldstone Middle School broadcast program. Known as “Mad Dog Matt,” he recorded videos for the sports section and was frequently seen in front of the camera. 

“I used to get so excited to see him on camera,” said Hills junior Samantha Fontana, “Matt was such a big part of the program.” 

In his free time, Merlino participates in DECA. He qualified to compete at States in Atlantic City under the Automotive Services Marketing category. 

He is interested in pursuing broadcasting in the future, specifically on a television network. He looks up to Verne Lundquist and other sports broadcasters on CBS, he said. 

“I think sports is the one thing I want to do,” he said.

Editor’s note: The most recent broadcasts that Merlino produces will be posted underneath the Twitter feed on the Trailblazer website. Check back often to see updated videos, which can also be found on the PH Athletics YouTube channel.