Donovan Catholic Powers Past Cedar Grove at LaRezza Invitational

photo by: Bryan Louzada | coverage by: Antonio Morales

Donovan Catholic continued its impressive start to the season, riding the power of its bats to an 8-2 win over Cedar Grove at the LaRezza Invitational on Sunday.

Both teams entered the game on a tear, with Cedar Grove fresh off a key victory against Mount Saint Dominic and Donovan Catholic carrying momentum from a big national win. Cedar Grove ace Cayce Kavakich took the rubber, looking to slow down a red-hot Griffins offense—but Donovan Catholic attacked early and didn’t look back.

The Griffins opened the scoring in the second inning with a four-run outburst, highlighted by home runs from Gia Gordon and Isabella Cino. The powerful offensive display continued in the third and fourth innings, with Donovan Catholic adding runs to build a comfortable lead.

Gordon was outstanding at the plate, finishing 2-for-3 with a home run and two runs scored. Isabella Maria had a stellar afternoon, going 4-for-4, while Olivia Kurth drove in two crucial runs, including a home run. The Griffins' lineup combined for 12 hits, showcasing both power and consistency throughout the order.

Despite a solid effort from Kavakich, Cedar Grove couldn’t overcome Donovan Catholic’s potent offense. Kavakich allowed 12 hits and eight runs (four earned), while striking out three in her six innings of work.

Sophia Senger and Dani Rodriguez teamed up on the mound to shut down Cedar Grove, combining for seven innings of four-hit ball. Rodriguez, who earned the win, allowed just one earned run, striking out three over four innings of relief.

With the victory, Donovan Catholic moves to a perfect 6-0 on the season, reaffirming its status as one of New Jersey’s elite teams. Cedar Grove, now 4-1, looks to bounce back in its next matchup.

Both teams showed why they're ranked among the top squads in the state, but it was Donovan Catholic's power and pitching depth that made the difference at the LaRezza Invitational.