On January 31, 2016, the Manchester Township Police Department administered the Physical Agility Examination, the first phase of testing for the position of Police Officer and Class II Special Officer.  Over 200 applicants participated in the event which took place at the Manchester High School between the hours of 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. The event began with Manchester Police Chief, Lisa Parker welcoming the applicants. “This is the first step in the process of becoming a member of the best police department in the state. I expect each and every one of you to put forth your very best effort, good luck”, Chief Lisa Parker said.

The Physical Agility Examination consisted of the following exercises: Pull-ups, Push-ups, Sit-ups, Squat Thrusts, and a 1 mile run. Those applicants who achieved a minimum combined passing score, advanced to the boxing component which consisted of each applicant boxing against another applicant for a period of one minute. The test was administered by members of the Manchester Township Police Department, three of which were certified, NJ Emergency Medical Technicians. A pedestrian/vehicular safety plan was developed and implemented by Manchester Police Traffic Safety Officer, Antonio Ellis and staffed by Manchester Township Auxiliary Police Officers: Sgt. Miceli, Aux. Milecki, and Aux. Mancini. The Manchester Township Police Department also received the voluntary assistance of martial arts expert Master Paul Prendergast, owner and lead instructor of Paul Prendergast Karate Schools (Brick and Toms River). Master Paul Prendergast, a 6thdegree black belt was asked by Manchester Police Lt. Vincent Manco, a former student of Paul Prendergast Karate if he would assist the Police Department by supervising/officiating the boxing component. When asked, Master Prendergast jumped at the opportunity and stated, “Absolutely, it would be an honor to help, just tell me when and where.”

Those applicants who successfully completed all phases of the physical agility examination were provided with a study guide which will help them to prepare for the written examination that is scheduled to take place on February 8, 2016. Manchester Mayor Kenneth Palmer and Manchester Councilman Craig Wallis were also in attendance at the event.