As many may know, Mr. FTHS is a beloved tradition at Freehold Township High School. This year’s winners of both the titles of Mr. Congeniality and Mr FTHS stood out for their impressive performances, positive attitudes, and charisma, and we caught up with them to hear about their victory. 

Ian Soskel

Meet Ian Soskel, the winner of Mr. Congeniality and a highly motivated contestant who wowed the judges with his singing and style. 

First off, congratulations on your win! How do you feel that you won Mr. Congeniality?

Soskel – You know, I feel great. It was a great performance, everyone did great, so, a proud crowd. 

Do you have any advice for anyone who wants to do this in the future?

What was the most challenging part about preparing for Mr. FTHS?
Soskel – Definitely the early wake-ups, you know. No traffic though so that’s good!

Thank you so much! Congrats on Mr. Congeniality. 

Thank you. 

Marcello Carmelo

Next up, the man of the hour, Marcello Carmelo, 2025’s Mr. FTHS. He won over the crowd with his impressive dance moves and infectious sense of humor. 

First of all, you were so good, I loved your performance, congratulations! How do you feel that you won Mr. FTHS?

Carmelo – I feel very surprised. I did not expect it at all, to be honest, because I really just joined this just to do it and I did not expect anything out of it. So the fact that I won is kind of crazy.

Do you have any tips for anyone who may want to do this in the future?

What was your favorite part about this experience overall?

Carmelo – My favorite part was probably being more involved, because during high school I never really joined a big club or anything, so this was the first thing that I did to get involved in high school. That was probably my favorite part, just being more involved and getting to know more of my peers.

Thank you so much, congratulations again!

Of course, thank you!