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On Sunday, April 13, The Real Housewives of New Jersey mom hopped on Instagram to share an exciting update on Brooklyn Connell — the youngest son of her longtime boyfriend, Paul “Paulie” Connell. Dolores reposted her beau’s Story announcing Brooklyn was headed to Iona University in New Rochelle, New York, where he would continue his student-athlete journey.
“Congratulations [Brooklyn],” Paulie captioned the post. “Keep following your dreams.”
The Story also included an inspirational quote attributed to Dolores: “Dreams don’t work unless you do.”
Paulie Connell's son, Brooklyn, to play college soccer in New York
Brooklyn committed to Iona University’s men’s soccer team after playing with Eture FC, a Spanish-based gap-year program designed for soccer players seeking college recruitment. Brooklyn, who previously played for the Hudson Valley Hammers youth club, is primarily a center back but occasionally takes on the fullback and central defensive midfielder positions.
“Brooklyn Connell, center back with composure and drive, is officially committed to Iona University,” read a post on the Eture Soccer Instagram. “Your consistency, resilience, and trust in the Eture journey made this possible. Proud of your step forward, and ready to watch you grow even more.”
The post received hundreds of “likes” and dozens of comments, including one from Dolores’ son, Frankie Catania Jr.
“CONGRATS Brooklyn!!!!!” Frankie wrote.
Paulie Connell finalizes his divorce from the mother of his children
Paulie shares Brooklyn and another son, Kameron, with his ex-wife, Joanne Connell. The former couple had separated more than 15 years ago but didn’t finalize their divorce until February 2025 — roughly four years after Paulie began dating Dolores.
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The Jersey dad spoke about his marital split in an interview with Daily Mail, saying he was so “relieved” that his divorce chapter was closed.
“I’m really happy that [Dolores] stood by me, and this lets me know that I’m with somebody that really cares for me,” he said. “She’s a great partner, a great friend, a great role model. She’s a great stepmom. She brings value to the table. She has a beautiful family, and anybody would be an idiot to not want that in their life.”
Dolores Catania shares her thoughts on potentially marrying Paul Connell
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Dolores shared a similar statement, insisting she was happy that Paulie received “closure.”
“It doesn’t really change the dynamics of our relationship. I just feel like it’s a relief that it’s finally done,” she told the outlet before addressing a possible engagement to Paulie. “No, absolutely not [rushing to marriage]. I’m not rushing into anything. ‘I’m not saying, “Oh, now I want to get engaged.” I’m just happy the way things are. I’m happy there’s closure on Paul’s end.”
Dolores shares her son, Frankie, and daughter, Gabby, with her ex-husband, Frank Catania Sr. The Jersey parents, who have remained quite close over the years, are now preparing for Frankie’s wedding with Nicole Perricho. See how Dolores reacted to her son’s recent engagement.
