Diamond Dust

Here are some facts and figures on the Joe Hartmann Diamond Classic, a 16-team baseball tournament that will mark its 40th year this season:

First game: Gloucester Catholic 4, Gateway 3, on June 3, 1974.

First winning pitcher: Gloucester Catholic's Bob Pisker (nine-inning complete game).

First home run: Sacred Heart's Bruno Vagnarelli, on June 12, 1974.

First championship game: Camden Catholic 6, Penns Grove 0, on June 15, 1974.

First no-hitter: Shawnee's Bob Sebra in a 1-0 win over Pennsville on May 30, 1978.

First grand slam: Washington Township's Chris Grande, on June 11, 1985.

Three-time champions: Cherokee (1981, 1982, and 2009).

Five-time champions: Bishop Eustace (1987, 1991, 1999, 2004, and 2012).

Six-time champions: Gloucester Catholic (1994, 1996, 1997, 1998, 2000, and 2001).

- Phil Anastasia
EndText