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NJ Baseball Powerhouses Head to National Invitational

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Wednesday, January 7th 2026 at 19:16 GMT by NJ.com

Cary, N.C. - Two New Jersey high school baseball programs, Bergen Catholic and Don Bosco Prep, will represent the Garden State on a national stage this spring, having received coveted invitations to the 2026 National High School Invitational (NHSI) in Cary, North Carolina, from March 25-27. The NHSI is widely considered the premier high school baseball tournament in the United States, consistently attracting the top teams and talent from across the country.

This year's participation marks a significant opportunity for both Bergen Catholic and Don Bosco Prep to test their mettle against some of the best competition in the nation. Both programs boast impressive recent performances, cementing their status as powerhouses within New Jersey and gaining national recognition. Bergen Catholic concluded the 2025 season with an outstanding 27-4 record, culminating in a North Jersey, Non-Public A championship victory. Don Bosco Prep wasn't far behind, finishing with a strong 26-6 record and securing the prestigious Bergen County Tournament title.

The NHSI, which began in 2002, has a rich history of showcasing future Major League Baseball stars. The tournament provides a platform for these young athletes to gain exposure to college scouts and professional baseball representatives, potentially accelerating their path to the pros. Past participants include numerous current MLB players, adding to the tournament's allure and prestige. The atmosphere in Cary is electric, with a college-like environment and often drawing significant crowds.

A Rising Tide for New Jersey Baseball

The inclusion of two New Jersey teams in the NHSI highlights the growing strength of high school baseball within the state. For years, New Jersey has consistently produced talented players, but rarely has it seen two teams simultaneously invited to this highly selective tournament. This speaks volumes about the dedication of coaches, the quality of training facilities, and the commitment of athletes at both Bergen Catholic and Don Bosco Prep.

"It's an honor to represent our school, our league, and the state of New Jersey at the NHSI," said Coach [Insert Coach Name - Bergen Catholic]. "We've worked incredibly hard to build a program that competes at a high level, and this invitation is a testament to the players' dedication and effort. We're looking forward to the challenge."

Don Bosco Prep's head coach [Insert Coach Name - Don Bosco Prep] echoed similar sentiments. "The NHSI is the gold standard for high school baseball tournaments. It's a fantastic opportunity for our players to compete against the very best, gain valuable experience, and showcase their skills. We're incredibly excited to be going."

What to Expect in Cary

The NHSI features a unique format, typically involving a pool play stage followed by single-elimination bracket play. Teams will face a diverse range of opponents with different playing styles, demanding adaptability and resilience. Experts predict that teams from Florida, California, and Texas will also be strong contenders in 2026, making the competition exceptionally fierce.

Beyond the on-field action, the NHSI offers a valuable experience for the players in terms of personal growth and development. They'll have the opportunity to interact with players from different regions, learn from different coaching philosophies, and build lasting relationships. The tournament fosters a sense of camaraderie and sportsmanship among the participants, promoting the values of teamwork and fair play.

The success of both Bergen Catholic and Don Bosco Prep in the NHSI could have a ripple effect, inspiring younger players throughout New Jersey to strive for excellence and further elevating the state's reputation as a hotbed for baseball talent. The two schools will undoubtedly be under the spotlight, aiming to prove that New Jersey baseball can compete with the best the nation has to offer. The tournament is expected to draw significant media coverage, further raising the profile of both schools and the state's high school baseball program.