Sports Saturdays: Mountainside PAL and the Magic Behind Local Sports

Jeanie Ruban has spent decades in Mountainside sports as a player, coach, instructor, and volunteer. Now as president of the Mountainside Police Athletic League (PAL), she talks frequently about "Mountainside magic"—a quality she sees built not through championship trophies, but through the people who show up to make sports possible.

The Mountainside PAL is a volunteer-led organization that offers athletic opportunities to youth while hosting community events throughout the year. Union County Life spoke with Ruban about what keeps the organization thriving and what brings families back year after year.

The league offers travel basketball, flag football, cheerleading, tennis, and pickleball while working alongside the Mountainside Recreation Department on soccer and other athletic programming. Beyond competitive play, PAL organizes the borough's Fourth of July fireworks, roller skating events, the town-wide garage sale, and the Coptrot 5K. Flag football gives children a non-contact introduction to the sport, while the cheerleading program performs throughout basketball season, including at Spirit Night, one of Deerfield School's athletic traditions.

What sets Mountainside PAL apart, according to Ruban, is its volunteer base. Many board members continue serving long after their own children have finished playing. "I think one of the bigger stories of the PAL is that the board is made up of members that don't even have children in the programming," she said.

Ruban hopes to see younger parents step up as volunteers and board members. While many want to coach, she noted, some hesitate to join the board due to increased responsibility. But the work matters. "Our volunteers and our coaches are the backbone of our programs," Ruban said. "They're really the backbone of our town."

The lessons children learn extend beyond the playing field—teamwork, grit, motivation, friendship, and lasting relationships. For Ruban, that's the real measure of success. She looks ahead with optimism and an open invitation: "The PAL is always arms open. We will not turn you away."

Families interested in participating in PAL programs can register through the Mountainside Recreation Department website. Find more Mountainside events, sports coverage, and community news on Union County Life.

FAQ

Q: What sports and programs does Mountainside PAL offer?
A: Mountainside PAL offers travel basketball, flag football, cheerleading, tennis, and pickleball for youth. The organization also partners with the Mountainside Recreation Department on soccer and other athletic programs. Beyond sports, PAL hosts Fourth of July fireworks, roller skating nights, the town-wide garage sale, and the Coptrot 5K.

Q: How do I register my child for Mountainside PAL programs?
A: Families can register for PAL programs through the Mountainside Recreation Department website. Some programs are offered directly by PAL, while others are co-organized with the Recreation Department.

Q: What is flag football and who can play?
A: Flag football is a non-contact introduction to football designed for children. Mountainside PAL's flag football program teaches the fundamentals and teamwork aspects of the sport without the physical contact of tackle football.

Q: How can I volunteer or get involved with Mountainside PAL?
A: Mountainside PAL welcomes volunteers as coaches, instructors, and board members. You can reach out through the Recreation Department or attend PAL events to learn more about volunteering opportunities.

Q: Where can I find more Mountainside sports news and community updates?
A: Union County Life covers Mountainside youth sports, events, and community news. Visit unioncountylife.com or subscribe to the Mountainside newsletter for updates on PAL programs and local activities.