Brick American’s 9-year-old All-Stars came close to joining the group of teams from that league that won district championships.
But the players still have plenty to feel proud about after a great 7-2 run in the District 18 tournament.
Perhaps the greatest memory is a dramatic comeback victory over Jackson in the "if" game that forced a rematch for the championship. Jackson won the title, 7-0, by taking advantage of errors and walks to make up for getting only two hits. Brick American had three hits in the title game, which was scoreless through the first three innings.
In that semifinal victory, in which Brick American rallied from a 2-0 deficit, Mike Martone and Joe Civillo each had two hits and an RBI. Kevin Nilsen got the victory and Mike Cook picked up the save as they combined to pitch a two-hitter.
After falling into the losers bracket, Brick American won three games, including the semifinal victory over Jackson. Prior to the Jackson game, the Americans beat Toms River East, 4-3, as Mike Salerno pitched a three-hitter and Ray Triano batted in two runs. Then, there was an 8-3 victory over Barnegat, in which Andrew Lamura, who no-hit Lacey early in the tournament, hurled a two-hitter, and Spencer Cohen and Mike Staub each lashed two hits.
Ryan Civillo and Vince Lombardi hit well throughout the nine games. Lombardi made some superb plays defensively as the team’s catcher.