In a wild, two-day contest defined by defensive struggles and gritty resilience, Don BoscoPrep secured its ninth Non-Public A state baseball championship with a 5–4 extra-inning victory over Christian Brothers Academy at Bob DeMeo Field in Hamilton.

The title game began Wednesday evening and was suspended just before 11:00 p.m. due to a Hamilton town ordinance that automatically shut off the stadium lights. With the score locked 4–4 through eight full innings, the game resumed Thursday at 3:00 p.m. and concluded with a dramatic walk-off in the bottom of the 11th.

Game Recap

Don Bosco (26–2) overcame six defensive errors and a sluggish offensive showing, mustering just three hits but capitalizing on 12 free passes (eight walks, four hit batters). Despite being outhit 8–3 by Christian Brothers (22–5), the Ironmen delivered in the game’s most significant moment.

In the bottom of the 11th, senior Nick Gilpin lifted a deep fly to center field, allowing Nicky Becker to tag from third and score the championship-winning run on a sacrifice fly.

Player Highlights

  • Nick Gilpin (Don Bosco) – Game MVP: Pitched 3.0 innings (1 unearned run, 6 K), turned two key double plays, delivered the walk-off sac fly (17th RBI), batted .391 on the season.
  • Dylan Henshaw (Don Bosco) – Threw 4.0 scoreless innings of relief to keep the game in reach.
  • Daniel Russo (CBA) – Went 2-for-4 with two RBI.
  • Dylan Iwanyk (CBA) – Two hits, two runs scored, 3.1 IP as starting pitcher.

Postseason Path and Championship Run

Don Bosco’s state title run included playoff victories over Oratory, Delbarton, DePaul, and Christian Brothers. Earlier in the spring, they also won the Bergen County Tournament with wins over Cresskill, Fort Lee, Paramus Catholic, Old Tappan, and Pascack Valley.

The Ironmen closed the season on an 18-game win streak, avenging their 2015 championship loss to Christian Brothers Academy.

Historical Context

Don Bosco Prep captures its ninth Non-Public A state title, continuing its tradition as one of New Jersey’s premier baseball programs. The Ironmen close 2025 with a 26–2 overall record, including an undefeated 6–0 BigNorth–United finish.

Christian Brothers Academy finishes the season 22–5, winning the Shore–A North title andmaking their first Non-Public A final appearance since 2016.