We are the champions! RP wins Group 1 softball title

In thrilling fashion, the Roselle Park softball team bested Gloucester 4-3 in nine innings to win the Group 1 state championship.

RP loaded the bases in the bottom of the ninth and Madison Hummel took the first pitch she saw and laced a single up the middle to plate the winning run, setting off the celebration. She was mobbed by her teammates down the first-base line.

Watch the video of the winning hit on nj.com

It was a roller-coaster of a game. Roselle Park had to come back three times, including in the bottom of the seventh to send the game to extra innings. Down 3-2, Hailey Ortega walked and Sarah Lippin singled to put runners on second and third. Hummel then lifted a fly ball deep enough to score Ortega.

Read the whole story and see pictures from the game in nj.com

The game had a little of everything to keep everyone either on the edge of their seats or pacing. With the game thankfully in our backyard, RP had an outstanding turnout of RPHS graduates, teachers, students, family and friends—and we all went home smiling.

Congratulations to the champs. You made RP so proud. Park pride!