Point Pleasant Beach Clinches Another Baseball Championship: 'It's What We're Made For'

POINT PLEASANT BEACH - The Point Pleasant Beach High School baseball team continues to carve out its legacy, securing the NJSIAA Central Group 1 championship with a decisive 9-1 victory over Shore Regional on Friday. This triumph marks the Garnet Gulls' fourth sectional title in just five years, establishing a stronghold in the region. Senior center fielder and left-handed pitcher Tommy Conroy expressed his joy, stating, "I think winning might be the best feeling ever. It's what we're made for."

The team's success has been bolstered by key players including Conroy, senior catcher Danny Lubach, senior right-handed pitcher Bennett Moberg, and senior shortstop Antonio Acevedo, all of whom have contributed to three sectional title wins and the squad’s inaugural appearance in the state finals in 2024. "This feeling, I can do this every day," said Lubach, who hit a ground rule double during the pivotal third inning. "It's a real special team here and it's a great program. These moments never get old."

With a current record of 18-6, Point Beach is set to face Woodstown (21-8) on Monday in a Group 1 semifinal. Woodstown advanced after defeating Maple Shade 2-0 in the South Group 1 championship. The Group 1 state championship is scheduled for June 14 at 4 p.m. at Rutgers University.

Head coach Angelo Fiore noted that the groundwork laid by previous players has been instrumental to their recent achievements. "Years ago, the players we had here built the foundation," he said. "The 2022 group were able to break that mold. These kids right here have embraced the culture and set the standard high. We're super proud of them."

This season has already been remarkable for Point Beach, as they captured the prestigious Shore Conference Class A South divisional championship, a first for the school and the first for any Group 1 team in that division. The Class A South division has historically been a powerhouse in Ocean County, and five teams from this division reached the sectional semifinals.

Point Beach effectively overcame a formidable pitching lineup, as Shore Regional had been riding a wave of four consecutive shutouts leading into the game. Despite the absence of senior ace Ryan Barham due to pitch count limitations, Point Beach capitalized by drawing nine walks, with three resulting in runs. Conroy’s contributions included a home run and a two-run single, showcasing the depth of the team's batting lineup.

Conroy, who also pitched two innings in relief, highlighted the team's confidence in their ability to face any pitching staff. Moberg pitched five strong innings, allowing only three hits while striking out four batters. Both Conroy and Moberg will be available for the upcoming semifinal match on Monday.