Section 3 Triumph
The Nottingham Little League 12‑year‑old All Stars captured the Section 3 championship on Thursday night, rolling past Clark by a 7‑2 margin. The victory marks the team's first sectional title since 2012 and ends a 14‑year championship drought that had lingered over the league.
From the opening inning, the Sayen Gang showed they were ready to compete. Jackson Bishop ignited the offense with a clutch triple that cleared the bases, while Christian Bianchi and Enzo DiMartino followed with back‑to‑back home runs in the third frame. The offensive outburst set the tone for a game that would never truly be in doubt.
On the mound, Nolan Muits was nothing short of spectacular. He struck out nine batters over the final five innings and yielded just a single hit, allowing the team to maintain control despite a brief rally attempt by Clark in the middle innings.
A Manager's Pride
Manager Mike Bongrazio could not hide his satisfaction after the final out. "I’m incredibly proud of these boys," he said, "their hard work and talent have paid off, and we’re excited to see how far they can go." His words resonated with a team that has been grinding through weeks of practice and community support.
The championship also carries a historic angle: it will be the first state tournament final hosted on the home field of a participating team since Sayreville in 1982. Cresskill will open its doors for the championship game, adding a unique backdrop to the showdown.
Looking ahead, Nottingham will meet Cresskill in the state championship series. Both squads have earned their places through relentless effort, and the upcoming match promises another chapter of memorable baseball for the region.
Fans across New Jersey have rallied behind the Sayen Gang, filling the stands and celebrating each milestone. The community’s enthusiasm underscores the significance of the win, not just for the players but for the entire league.