The New Milford Knights entered Monday’s game against Glen Rock as the 16th and final seed in the North I Group II Tournament. Having already beaten Glen Rock earlier in the year, their state tourney rematch would be a test for both teams.
Though the Knights fell 9-0 and their state tournament run was over, for the team and first-year head coach Mark Mongiardo, there is great optimism for the future.
The Knights dropped to 8-13 on the season in a year that has been full of peaks and valleys for this young squad.
Find out what's happening in New Milfordfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
“I told them the same thing [after the game] that I told them before the game,” said Mongiardo. “They earned the right to be here and they deserved to be here.”
For the seniors, their playing careers will end after the next two games, a home and home set with Leonia on Wednesday and Thursday.
Find out what's happening in New Milfordfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
“After the game, it’s a tough conversation, especially for the seniors, but you need to stay positive and we have two more games left to play,” said the coach.
With a good crop of young players, the Knights should be ready to contend next season, after giving many young players a chance to play and build for the future.
“We have a lot of young guys, a lot of underclassmen that have a lot of talent that we can build on. We’ve got a bright future,” Mongiardo added.
Glen Rock benefited from a strong pitching performance by junior Rob Costello, who scattered just 4 hits over 7 innings in a complete game effort.
