Zion George Becomes First Soccer Player in School History to Earn College Scholarship

NEWARK, N.J. – Zion George, a senior at the Newark School of Data Science & Information Technology, has officially committed to play collegiate soccer at Felician University on scholarship, marking a historic milestone as the first soccer player from his high school recruited to a college program.

George, one of New Jersey’s top high school goal scorers during the 2025 season, helped lead his team through its inaugural NJSIAA season while distinguishing himself as a dynamic offensive threat. Known for his speed, physicality, and technical skill, he capped off his school career by turning record-setting performance into an opportunity to continue his academic and athletic journey at the next level.

“This opportunity is bigger than me. I know that I didn’t get here without the support of my coaches, teammates, and family,” George said. “I’m proud to represent my school and show younger players that if you work hard, you can take your game to the next level.”

George said he plans to major in computer science, and he is considering a career in software engineering.  

“Zion’s dedication on the field and in the classroom embodies the spirit of our student-athletes. His commitment to Felician University is a personal achievement and a breakthrough for our entire school community,” said Superintendent León. “We celebrate Zion and the doors he’s opening for future student-athletes at Data Science. With this scholarship and his continued pursuit of higher education, he is setting an example and inspiring all student athletes who will follow in his footsteps.”

“This historic commitment reflects what’s possible when talent, hard work, and opportunity come together,” said Board of Education President Hasani K. Council. “Zion has always represented excellence, and his success is a testament to the vision of our athletics program and the support of our coaches, teachers, and families.”

“Zion’s journey from our school fields to a collegiate scholarship is an inspiration,” said Dr. Liana Summey, Principal of the Newark School of Data Science & Information Technology. His leadership, resilience, and academic strength set a standard for our students. I want to thank his teachers, Head Coach Joseph Lima, and everyone who helped bring the best out of Zion. We are incredibly proud of what he has achieved and look forward to his continued growth at Felician.”

“As one of the state’s top goal scorers last season, Zion brought great pride and recognition to our young soccer program. I am so glad to see his hard work pay off for him with this opportunity to continue playing at Felician University, ” said Boys Soccer Coach Joseph Lima. With his work ethic, his discipline, and his willingness to lead by example, I know he will be successful and I look forward to seeing all that he accomplishes on the college-level.”

Felician University, a private Catholic institution with campuses in Lodi and Rutherford, N.J., competes at the NCAA Division II level as the Golden Falcons in the Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference (CACC). The men’s soccer program has established itself as a competitive force in the region, winning the CACC Championship in 2024 and advancing to the NCAA Division II national quarterfinals, a first in program history. In 2025, Felician entered the season ranked in national Division II coaches polls and was picked to finish at the top of the conference standings.