Frank Garofalo spent much of the season observing from the bench at St. Rita. As a junior infielder, he faced challenges during his limited early-season chances. Yet, Garofalo stayed prepared and retained confidence. An injury to Braden Quinn paved the way for Garofalo to step up.
“I always knew I could play with everyone but didn’t have many opportunities,” Garofalo said. “When I got chances, I didn’t capitalize. When ‘BQ’ was injured, I stepped in and performed well. I finally got my chance and kept going.”
Garofalo executed one of St. Rita’s most significant plays by hitting a walk-off single to left field. This key hit in the bottom of the seventh inning drove in JJ Quinlan, securing a 2-1 win over East Peoria in a Class 3A state semifinal at Slammers Stadium in Joliet.
Sully Kazee delivered a strong performance, pitching a three-hitter, striking out three, and allowing only one earned run. The victory brought the Mustangs to a 29-12 record. Heartland recruit Colin Quinn went 2-for-3, and Julio Gutierrez contributed with a sacrifice fly driving in Jayden Hawkins.
Frank Garofalo quickly became the hero, helping the Mustangs reach the final. After East Peoria’s R.J. Duncheon tied the game with a homer in the sixth inning, Garofalo provided the decisive response. Jayden Ibarra began the bottom of the seventh with a double. Although tagged out at third on a fielder’s choice, Quinlan advanced to second. Garofalo then delivered a single to left, allowing Quinlan to score and set off the team’s celebration.
“I got a fastball and knew it was a crucial moment,” Garofalo said. “I was ready. I’ve never had a walk-off like this before. I was ecstatic with so many emotions.”
Garofalo has also proven valuable in previous games, contributing to wins over Marian Catholic and Nazareth in the past tournament rounds. St. Rita’s coach, John Nee, highlighted Garofalo’s impact, particularly defensively.
Garofalo’s consistent performance has been vital, making key plays in multiple games. The upcoming championship game against Troy Triad marks St. Rita’s fourth chance at winning a state championship. Coach Nee, a St. Rita alum with 29 years of coaching experience, understands the opportunity’s magnitude.
“It means everything for our community and past players,” Nee stated. “Tradition never graduates. This game is for the entire community.”
Garofalo has long cherished baseball, enjoying high-pressure situations. His performance has proved instrumental in leading St. Rita to this critical moment.