A Familiar Face Returns to Lead the Red Devils
Ben Donaghy, a coach with more than twenty years of experience, has been appointed head coach of the Ridge High School baseball program. His hiring comes after a distinguished tenure at North Plainfield and South Hunterdon, where he posted winning records and guided teams to deep playoff runs.
Donaghy first crossed paths with the Ridge community as the junior‑varsity coach under Tom Blackwell, a mentor whose influence helped shape his coaching philosophy. He later returned to Ridge as a Transition Coordinator, Work‑Based Learning Supervisor, and Special Education teacher, weaving his professional expertise into the school’s fabric.
Before his Ridge appointment, Donaghy led North Plainfield to an 18‑9 record and a playoff victory over Matawan, a feat that underscored his ability to develop talent and manage high‑pressure situations. Two seasons at South Hunterdon yielded a 27‑21 mark, further cementing his reputation as a builder of competitive programs.
His playing days at Felician University laid the groundwork for his baseball acumen. There, he earned Team MVP honors, posted a .324 batting average, and collected Division II All‑Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference accolades, experiences he now brings to the dugout.
The Ridge baseball program, a seven‑time Somerset County champion — second only to Immaculata’s fifteen titles — has missed the county final for the first time since 2018. Donaghy’s arrival signals a renewed focus on reclaiming that legacy, with the hope of ending the recent drought and restoring the Red Devils to their historic perch.
Beyond the diamond, Donaghy continues to serve as a Transition Coordinator and Special Education teacher, roles that reflect his commitment to student‑athlete development in the classroom and community. His multifaceted position illustrates how he blends educational support with athletic ambition.
Tom Blackwell, who once supervised Donaghy as a JV coach, and Pete Hall, another figure mentioned in the program’s history, represent the network of mentors and peers who have shaped his journey. Their influence, alongside his own playing achievements, equips Donaghy with a unique perspective as he steps into the head‑coach role.