Standing amidst the energetic atmosphere of East Stroudsburg University’s football field, AJ Moncman listens intently. While his eyes can’t capture the game, his ears tell him the story of its every moment.
BEYOND THE SCOREBOARD
An occasional sports feature highlighting the unique stories of local athletes.
Moncman, a junior communications student and a coaching staff member for the Warriors, experiences the game in a way that most do not. Born with Leber congenital amaurosis, a condition affecting the retina, the 20-year-old from Lehigh County has embraced football through sound and emotion.
As an integral part of the coaching team, Moncman brings an inspiring presence to the field. “I love the camaraderie of a team. I love being able to connect with all these guys and all of our staff … and try and at least change somebody’s life,” he mentioned. His dedication is palpable, both to those he coaches and his fellow staff, who find their perspective on the game transformed by his involvement.
A love of sports
Moncman’s affinity for sports traces back to his childhood, where he frequently tuned into Merrill Reese’s broadcasts of the Philadelphia Eagles. By age three, he aspired to become a sports commentator. Growing up in a family deeply rooted in coaching, with his father involved in football, his mother in swimming, and his sister in lacrosse, Moncman was immersed in the world of athletics.
At Southern Lehigh High School, he thrived in powerlifting and played in the marching band. His passion for sports media was evident through his contributions to D11sports.com, where he honed his skills in sports commentary and reporting.
Connecting as a coach
Moncman’s connection with East Stroudsburg University began at an early age, when he first met Coach Jimmy Terwilliger. Recognizing Moncman’s potential, Terwilliger, an All-American quarterback, was keen to have him join the university.
“He’s been around football his entire life. He knows the game of football better than most people do,” noted Terwilliger. Moncman’s extraordinary ability to perceive and contribute to the team is recognized and appreciated by everyone around him. His auditory skills, honed through practice, give him an edge in understanding the intricate details of the game.
Matt Hagelgans, the special teams coordinator, admires Moncman’s unique ability to rely on his hearing to guide and coach players. “His perspective is so unique because he has to rely on his sense of feel and the relationships that he’s making with the players … It’s easy to be able to see and diagnose, but what AJ is able to do is he’s able to tell us, this is how he feels. The guys trust him because they know he’s there for them,” Hagelgans explained.
‘Like a brother’
Connor Walsh, a long snapper, credits Moncman for his growth in the position. “Each snap he tells me where it is. He can hear where it goes, which is pretty awesome. So he tells me how to adjust, how to finish my hands, all that stuff,” said Walsh.
Punter Adam Noll appreciates having Moncman not only as a coach but also as a friend. “It’s kind of fun having a coach that’s also your friend. He’s there for us, for football things and also personal things,” Noll said. Moncman’s impact on his teammates extends beyond the field, fostering bonds that resemble family ties.
Blindness Awareness Month
October marks Blindness Awareness Month, with White Cane Day celebrated nationally on October 15th, recognizing the independence and achievements of those who are blind or visually impaired.
Moncman navigates campus and the football field with his white cane, utilizing technology like a BrailleNote and a screenreader to aid in his studies. Balancing his commitments, he aims to achieve his dream of working in sports media or coaching, driven by a desire to inspire and develop young athletes.
Setting high expectations
As the sun sets over the Poconos, Moncman, aided by sunglasses, continues his work on the field, embodying the dedication and passion he hopes to instill in those around him. “Shoot high, set your expectations high. Pursue greatness. Try and be elite at two or three things. Put in the work to be deserving,” Moncman advised, reflecting his philosophy of hard work and achievement.
