The Eastern Junior Vikings Football and Cheer program is entering a new era under the leadership of its new president and head coach, James “Jim” MacNeill.
With a clear vision to restore the program’s reputation and foster a strong community spirit, the Gloucester Township resident is focusing on growth and sportsmanship and leaving behind past controversies. That includes a 2022 suit filed by parent and car dealer Charles Foulke III over allegations of mismanagement.
“Well, I was actually lucky,” MacNeill recounted. “At the time, the opportunity kind of fell into my lap. There were issues within the program that needed to be fixed, and last year, the current president and other board members stepped down for personal reasons.
“I was asked to take over, which felt crazy to me at the time, but I was excited to help.”
MacNeill wants to again have a program known for its play, not its controversies. Anywhere from 110 to 120 young athletes are expected to participate this year.
“The main reason I wanted this role is to help the organization get back to where it was years ago,” he explained. “The organization, along with myself, has an opportunity to help shape young men and women into better people every day. It doesn’t matter whether they ever play football or cheer again after their time with the Vikings. The most important thing for me is for them to leave feeling more confident, inspired, and stronger both physically and mentally.
“Most of all, I want them to leave with a sense of family and friendship that will stay with them for life.”
MacNeill has praise for his teams and for adults associated with the football and cheer program.
“These kids are a representation of this league,” the coach remarked. “Even just being a part of the program for a short time, you can see the dedication not only from the coaching staff and board members but, most importantly, from the parents. They make sure their kids are on time and ready to go for each practice.
“As a father of two boys myself, I understand how challenging it can be with work and family obligations.”
MacNeill and the board members also want to influence Voorhees beyond the football field.
“Our dream as coaches and board members is to get back into the community,” he said, “going door to door, introducing ourselves and letting people know that, whether or not they have kids on the team, we want them to be a part of what’s happening in their community.”
That effort will include strengthening ties with local businesses.
“We’re planning to visit all the businesses in Voorhees Township,” MacNeill emphasized, “with the goal of gaining their support. Whether it’s through sponsoring the EJV (Eastern Junior Vikings), or – if it’s a food or ice cream business – they are more than welcome to set up a stand at the field to help raise money for the program. We want to involve them.”
Eastern High coach Lionel Bolen has shown strong support for the program’s new leadership.
“I’m incredibly impressed with the amazing job the new board members of the Eastern Junior Vikings are doing,” he said. “Their dedication and leadership are already making a huge impact, and I’m excited to be a part of such a passionate and driven team.”
The football and cheer program is preparing for its upcoming season with strength and conditioning sessions that will begin Saturday at the Steven J. Giangiulio Memorial Field in the township. The first game is set for Thursday, Aug. 28, against visitors Cherry Hill East at 6 p.m.
Families and aspiring athletes are encouraged to become part of the revitalized program. Register at www.ejvfootball.com.
