Did you know that New Jersey is the birthplace of several well-known athletes? Here are some of our favorites.
Frank Budd
Frank Budd was born in Long Branch and attended Asbury Park High. He set a 100-yard dash record in 1961 which won him the titles of World’s Fastest Human. He even had a brief football career as a wide receiver in the NFL.
John Farrell
Born in Monmouth Beach, John Farrell was a formal MLB pitcher, coach, and manager. He is currently a scout for the Cincinnati Reds and regularly contributes as an analyst for FOX and ESPN. He played baseball for the Cleveland Indians, California Angels, and Detroit Tigers.
Brad Faxon
Brad Faxon was born in Oceanport and has won eight times on the PGA Tour. While he admits he’s not the best driver, Faxon has the reputation of one of the best pure putters in golf’s history.
Connor Jaeger
Born in Fair Haven, Connor Jaeger is a well-known former competitive swimmer. A member of the 2012 US Olympics team, Jaeger specializes in freestyle distance events. He is the current record holder for the 800-meter freestyle and the 1500-meter freestyle.
James van Riemsdyk
Known by his initials JVR, James van Riemsdyk was born in Middletown and currently plays hockey for the Philadelphia Flyers as a left winger. His younger brother Trevor also currently plays in the NHL for the Carolina Hurricanes.
Jim Jeffcoat
Born in Long Branch and raised in Matawan, Jim Jeffcoat is a former player for the NFL. Playing on both the Dallas Cowboys and Buffalo Bills, he is now an assistant coach for the XFL. We’re proud to say all these amazing athletes were born and raised right here in Monmouth County, New Jersey!