Frank Garofalo, a junior infielder for St. Rita, spent much of the season watching from the bench. He faced struggles early in the spring, but maintained readiness and belief in his abilities. A late-season injury to Braden Quinn provided Garofalo with an opportunity to demonstrate his potential.
Garofalo shared, I always knew I could compete, but hadn’t had the chance. When ‘BQ’ got hurt, I stepped in and thrived.
With this opportunity, Garofalo delivered a pivotal moment in St. Rita’s history, hitting a walk-off single in the bottom of the seventh inning. His hit drove in JJ Quinlan for the winning run, securing a 2-1 victory over East Peoria in a Class 3A state semifinal held at Slammers Stadium in Joliet.
Sully Kazee, who has committed to Southeastern in Iowa, pitched expertly for the Mustangs, allowing just three hits and one earned run, alongside three strikeouts. Colin Quinn contributed by going 2-for-3, while Julio Gutierrez brought in Jayden Hawkins with a sacrifice fly.
Following Garofalo’s crucial hit, the team celebrated their advance to the program’s first state championship attempt. St. Rita’s head coach, John Nee, highlighted the significance of this opportunity, saying, Winning would mean everything to our community and those who have been part of this program.
St. Rita will face Troy Triad, who defeated Crystal Lake South 2-0, in the championship match. This marks St. Rita’s fourth attempt at the state title after past losses.
Garofalo’s performance wasn’t the only highlight. Earlier, East Peoria’s R.J. Duncheon tied the game with a homer, setting the stage for Garofalo’s heroics. Garofalo, who had four RBIs for the season until then, broke the tie in the seventh inning. After Jayden Ibarra’s double, a fielder’s choice created an opportunity. Quinlan reached second while Ibarra got caught in a rundown. Garofalo’s single to left allowed Quinlan to score, igniting the team’s celebration.
Garofalo remarked, I got a fastball and seized the moment. I never experienced a walk-off win before.
His previous contributions included scoring in recent games against Marian Catholic and Nazareth.
Coach Nee praised Garofalo’s adaptability and contributions, noting his successes in playing different field positions and consistently delivering in crucial moments.
Kazee expressed relief and joy that his team secured the win without extra innings. He reflected on the game’s conclusion, I had faith someone would come through, and Garofalo did.
Garofalo concluded, I love baseball and high-pressure moments. Achieving this feels incredible.
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