Brick Memorial Downs Red Bank Catholic to Claim Shore Conference Title

photo & coverage by: Antonio Morales

In a game loaded with pressure-packed moments and momentum swings, Brick Memorial came through when it mattered most. The Mustangs outlasted Red Bank Catholic, 8-7, in the Shore Conference Tournament final at ShoreTown Ballpark, capturing the program’s first SCT title in dramatic fashion.

Red Bank Catholic kicked off the game scoring the first run in the bottom of the first, But from there, things settled into a back-and-forth battle between two of the Shore’s toughest teams. Luke Meyers was in rhythm striking out 4 batters  in over the first three innings. However, a few walks and one error led to a pressure situation for the Caseys. Down 1-0, Brick Memorial loaded the bases as Dan Golembiewski cleared the bases with a monster double to right field bring the Mustangs to a 3-1 lead in the 3rd. "I knew I had to be aggressive after the first one... I knew another fastball was coming and I was ready."

The Caseys followed up with a run over the next two innings brining the game to a tie. Red Bank Catholic called in star pitcher Ryan Prior in the top of the six but Brick played great small ball to keep the runs coming. A few walks, bunts, stolen bases, and a few singles, the Mustangs found themselves with a 2-run lead. 

After taking a 6-4 lead into the bottom of the sixth, the Caseys tied things up thanks to a two-run single from Max Dantoni, making it 6-6 and setting the stage for a tense final inning.

In the top of the seventh, Brick Memorial loaded the bases with no outs. A double play ball nearly ended the threat, but a go-ahead run would score on the very next pitch. Michael Figner then delivered a clutch hit to left field resulting in an error to bring in another insurance run, extending the lead to 8-6.

The bottom of the seventh brought pure chaos. Brayden Narducci struck out the first two batters, then walked the next two, bringing the top of RBC’s order back to the plate. A balk allowed one run to score and advanced the tying run to third, but Narducci forced an outfield fly out to secure the win and Shore Conference title. 

Narducci reflected on the emotional victory postgame: “I knew I just had to put my head down and keep working. I trusted my defense — they had my back the whole way. It’s huge to bring this title home for the school, for the coaches, the parents, and the fans who support us. It means everything for the Mustangs.” Golembiewski  followed up stating "I look foward to celebrating this amazing win with this amazing team. Every player has a role on this team and everybody is important. I'm excited to try and to a repeat next year."

Brick Memorial improves to 19-6 and walks away with one of the Shore’s most prestigious championships. It was a hard-earned victory and a moment this team — and its community — won’t soon forget.