David Brennan

Articles of David Brennan

Brennan Blanks Nutley as Old Tappan Rolls into Semis

May 30, 2025

🧢 Old Tappan 6, Nutley 0 — NJS1G3 Quarterfinals 📅 Date & Location: May 30, 2025 | North Jersey Section 1, Group 3 quarterfinal Game Summary Dominant Pitching: Old Tappan’s ace David Brennan delivered a standout performance, tossing a complete-game effort (7 IP), allowing just 3 hits with zero earned runs and striking out 7. His performance earned him the win. Behind him, Jack Lemonie closed out the game with a perfect inning, preserving the shutout. Key Moments & Stats Team1234567RHEOld Tappan2004000661Nutley0000000031 Old Tappan built the lead early, scoring 2 in the 1st inning and breaking the game open with 4 runs in the 4th. They finished with 6 hits, one error, and left with a 6–0 advantage; Nutley also committed one error. Offensive Standouts Max Garcia: 4 AB, 1 H, 2 RBI — delivered timely hitting to drive in runs. Anthony Onnembo: 3 AB, 2 H, 1 RBI — strong offensive contribution. AJ Aiello: 2 AB, 1 H, 2 RBI, plus a stolen base — key multi-run hit. Nutley’s Effort Starter Sean Fealey absorbed the loss, surrendering all 6 runs in 3.1 innings (5 hits, 4 earned runs, 3 walks, 3 strikeouts). Ryan Pessoa replaced him, holding Old Tappan scoreless over the final 2.2 innings, striking out 2 and allowing just 1 hit. 🔍 Bottom Line Old Tappan’s pitching staff stifled Nutley’s bats all day, while timely offense — led by Garcia, Onnembo, and Aiello — provided enough cushion. Brennan’s commanding performance and the team’s clean execution secured a 6–0 shutout, propelling Old Tappan into the sectional semifinals.

Top performers from Sectional Quarterfinals in New Jersey

May 29, 2025

Baseball: Takeaway, top performers from sectional quarterfinals in North JerseyTOP PERFORMER:► Sophomore David Brennan threw six scoreless innings and freshman Jack Lemonie tossed a scoreless seventh and No. 2 Old Tappan defeated No. 10 Nutley, 6-0. Brennan allowed three hits, one walk and struck out seven, and Lemonie allowed one walk and struck out one for the Golden Knights (18-7). Junior AJ Aiello had a triple, one run and two RBI, and junior Max Garcia had a double and two RBI for Old Tappan, which hosts No. 6 Morris Knolls on June 3.

Old Tappan Cruises Past Demarest as Brennan Picks Up the Win

Apr 29, 2025

On April 29, 2025, the Northern Valley Old Tappan baseball team secured an 8–2 victory over rival Demarest, improving their season record to 11–4. The Golden Knights showcased a balanced offensive attack, scoring in each of the first six innings and accumulating 11 hits. Key contributors included Alex Orecchio, who went 3-for-3 with two runs scored, and Selden Kolkebeck, who drove in three runs, including a home run. Senior outfielder Rocco Pierorazio delivered a standout performance, going 3-for-4 with two RBIs, including a double, and scoring a run. Sophomore pitcher David Brennan delivered a strong performance on the mound, earning the win by pitching four innings, allowing two runs on three hits, with five strikeouts and one walk. He efficiently managed his pitch count, throwing 66 pitches over four innings. Brennan's performance against Demarest highlights his development as a reliable starting pitcher for Old Tappan. His ability to control the game early and provide quality innings has been instrumental in the team's success this season.

Old Tappan Shows Grit But Drops a Close Rival Game

Apr 21, 2025

Old Tappan fell to Pascack Valley in a tough 4-1 loss, despite some strong individual performances and flashes of promise throughout the game. At the plate, Selden Kolkebeck was the standout for Old Tappan, going 2-for-3 and providing a steady presence in the lineup. Caden Yoon added a hit and scored the team’s only run, while Max Garcia and Rocco Pierorazio each chipped in with a single. However, Old Tappan struggled to capitalize with runners on base and managed just five hits on the day. On the mound, Kolkebeck got the start and battled through five innings, giving up four earned runs on seven hits while striking out four. Relievers Kai Ross and Chris Cho each pitched a scoreless inning in relief, holding Pascack Valley in check late in the game. Despite their efforts, Old Tappan couldn’t muster enough offense to rally, ultimately falling short as Pascack Valley’s pitching kept their bats quiet.

OT Improves to 7–0 Behind Brennan’s Arm, Aiello’s Bat

Apr 14, 2025

Photo Credit - RSully PicturesThe Old Tappan Golden Knights extended their unbeaten streak to 7–0 with an 8–2 home victory over Wayne Valley. The game was defined by a dominant second inning, where Old Tappan scored five runs to take a commanding 7–2 lead. Old Tappan capitalized on early opportunities, while their pitching staff combined for 13 strikeouts over seven innings. David Brennan lead all pitches with 6 strikeouts. Wayne Valley's offense was limited to three hits, with Varano accounting for two of them. Game Summary Final Score: Old Tappan 8, Wayne Valley 2 Winning Pitcher: David Brennan (Old Tappan) Key Performers AJ Aiello (Old Tappan): Went 2-for-3 with 3 RBIs and 2 stolen bases, leading the offensive charge. Max Garcia (Old Tappan): Scored twice and drew three walks, contributing to the team's early momentum. David Brennan (Old Tappan): Pitched four innings, allowing two runs on three hits, with six strikeouts and one walk. Christian Varano (Wayne Valley): Collected two of his team's three hits, including an RBI double. Scoring Breakdown

Brennan wins again as Old Tappan beats Teaneck

Apr 09, 2025

Photo Credit Ryan Sullivan @rsully_picturesOld Tappan high school baseball team defeated Teaneck with a final score of 16-1. Old Tappan's Anthony Onnembo led the offense, going 3-for-3 with a home run and five RBIs. Teammate Rocco Pierorazio scored three runs. Pitcher David Brennan earned another win, while allowing no runs and striking out six over four innings. Old Tappan is now 4-0.

Strong pitching from Brennan to record his first win of the season.

Apr 02, 2025

The game was part of the Big North - National Division league play with Old Tappan improving to a 2-0 record and Bergenfield dropping to 0-2. This matchup was a pitching duel with David Brennan standing tall in the end with his first win of the year. In the baseball game, Old Tappan defeated Bergenfield with a final score of 5–1.Game Summary:Old Tappan (2–0): Scored 2 runs in the 2nd inning and 3 runs in the 6th inning, totaling 5 runs on 6 hits with no errors.Bergenfield (0–2): Scored 1 run in the 5th inning, totaling 1 run on 3 hits with no errors.Key Players: Old TappanDavid Brennan (#26): Achieved 6 strikeouts over 5 innings pitched, earning his first win of the year.Caden Yoon (#5): Recorded 2 runs and 2 hits.Mateo Skific (#24): Contributed 2 RBIs.

Old Tappan Baseball secured a 6-2 victory over Bergenfield in their season opener

Mar 31, 2025

On March 31, 2025, the Old Tappan High School baseball team secured a 6-2 victory over Bergenfield High School in their season opener. The game remained scoreless until the third inning when Bergenfield took a 1-0 lead. Old Tappan responded emphatically in the bottom of the sixth inning, scoring all six of their runs. Senior pitcher Selden Kolkebeck delivered an impressive performance for Old Tappan, pitching six innings and allowing only three hits and two runs while striking out nine batters. Offensively, Max Garcia led the team with two hits, including a double, and two RBIs. Alex Orecchio contributed by scoring two runs and driving in another. For Bergenfield, Aiden Roldan and Jeremy Duran each crossed the plate, accounting for the team's two runs. Pitcher Fernando Rodriguez took the loss, surrendering five earned runs on nine hits over five innings, with three strikeouts. This win gives Old Tappan a 1-0 record to start the season, while Bergenfield begins with a 0-1 record.

Old Tappan geared up for Season: Conference Baseball Preview

Mar 26, 2025

Photo: Caruso/NorthJersey.comBig North Conference PreviewThe 2025 high school baseball season is officially here. The NJ Advance Media baseball staff has started its preparations for the spring season. As part of our baseball preview package, scroll down and take a look at our preview for the Big North Conference.Included are who we figure to be the top teams and even a sleeper that could turn some heads down the line. You’ll also find a handful of players to watch, some early picks in each division race, and a look at what the crystal ball suggests as postseason award winners.Sleeper TeamOld Tappan: The Golden Knights went 14-13 last spring, but a tough schedule has prepared them to compete in 2025.OT has a handful of reliable bats in the lineup, which starts with Anthony Onnembo (10 extra-base hits). Old Tappan will turn to Rocco Pierorazio, Alex Orrechio, Caden Yoon and Max Garcia to charge the batting order.On the mound, Jason Cho, David Brennan, Chris Cho, and Tristan Barrios are all returners who saw plenty of pitching action in 2024.

Boys basketball: North Jersey's Top Sophomores

Jan 14, 2025

Boys basketball: North Jersey boasts a bonanza of 'impact sophomores'Here's the annual look at North Jersey's "impact sophomores" from the Big North and NJIC. These 10th graders have started multiple games, and their coaches nominated them with supporting stats and provided insight:David Brennan, Old Tappan: 14 points, 5 rebounds, 93 percent free-throw shooter. “David is a two-year starter for Old Tappan and a really talented player,” coach Craig Ferraro said. “Dave is a competitor and never shies away from the big moments.” We are expecting big things for Brennan next year as a junior. Greg MatturaNorthJersey.com

Brennan strikes out five

Jul 05, 2024

David Brennan (‘27, NJ) struck out five and allowed just a hit over his three innings of work. Used a FB (T83) to blow by hitters, along with a pair of breaking balls (CB/SL) to keep hitters off. Click the link below for video.

2024 Baseball season preview for North Jersey

Mar 28, 2024

Baseball: Team-by-team previews for the 2024 season in North JerseyOLD TAPPANPlayers to watch – Juniors: CF Rocco Pierorazio, P/OF Kai Ross; sophomores: P/1B Seldon Kolkebeck, C Anthony Onnembo.Outlook – The Golden Knights (17-10) are young and must reload after winning last year’s National title. Players stepping up include junior 2B Alex Orecchio, freshman P David Brennan and three sophomores: 3B AJ Aiello, IF Max Garcia, P Mateo Skific.

David Brennan voted top boys basketball freshman in N.J

Feb 15, 2024

After more than 50,000 votes, we have a winner.Old Tappan’s David Brennan has been voted by the fans as the top boys basketball rookie in New Jersey. Brennan is averaging close to 10 points per game and has shown potential during his freshman year.New Jersey is a basketball state and is home to some of the best players in the country. This year’s rookie class has good up-and-coming talent and there are future stars in the Garden State. David is one to keep an eye out for. By Brandon Gould | NJ Advance Media for NJ.comMike Kinney | NJ Advance Media for NJ.comKevin Minnick | NJ Advance Media for NJ.comPhoto: David Brennan (10) of Old Tappan shoots a three over Anthony Apicella (1) of Wayne Valley during the boys basketball game between Old Tappan and Wayne Valley at Northern Valley Old Tappan High School in Old Tappan, NJ on Tuesday, December 19, 2023.Mile Djordjiovski | For NJ Advance Media

A healthy Old Tappan, picks up another quality win

Feb 09, 2024

OLD TAPPAN -- Senior Evan Brooks, back for his second game since returning from injury, propelled Northern Valley/Old Tappan to its second straight big win in a 58-43 victory over Pascack Valley on Thursday afternoon. Old Tappan had also defeated Teaneck, 68-62, earlier in the week.“It feels good to be back,” Brooks said. “I didn’t tell the guys I was coming back to practice Monday. So it was a really cool reaction when I walked into the gym.”“Now we have the captain to steer the ship,” added freshman David Brennan, who led all scorers with 20 points. “He makes a big difference.”The game got off to a very slow start with Brooks recording the only basket for Old Tappan in a 6-2 first quarter lead for Valley.Panthers sophomore Dante DaCosta scored twice inside sandwiched around a basket by Knights sophomore Isaac Shrager to open the second quarter. Brennan got hot, hitting a jumper and draining a pair of 3-pointers to give the Knights a 16-12 lead. Panthers sophomore Liam Higgins answered with a trey but Brooks drove to the basket twice and junior Dylan Drullinsky swished a 3-pointer and Old Tappan took a 23-15 lead into the halftime intermission. “It’s been a tough stretch,” said Old Tappan coach Craig Ferraro. “We won a couple of games but they’ve been spaced out. We have a bunch of young guys and I keep telling them to stick with it. As coaches we see they are getting better but the kids sometimes don’t understand that. But we are getting better and better and playing really well together. We’re sharing the ball and it’s paying off.”The Panthers came out smoking to open the third quarter. Junior Trevor Kirkby scored on a putback 30 seconds in. After Brooks scored on a jumper, Valley junior Devin Merker drove and scored and then tallied from in close to cut the Knights lead to 25-21. Merker finished with 15 points for Valley.“We knew we had to stop him (Kirkby) and get in on the glass,” said Ferraro. “We knew we had to get out to 42 (Merker). He’s a great shooter and they have a lot of great athletes. They’re big, they’re physical, they’re strong and Al [Coleman] is a great coach. It’s never easy. We game-planned and got ready for it and the kids did a great job focusing and doing what they had to do and we wound up in a good spot.”After a timeout OT went on an 8-2 run to boost the lead back up to 10, 33-23. A trey by Panthers senior Shane Buoye halted the run but a basket by Brennan, a 3-pointer by junior Dylan Drullinsky and a drive to the basket by Brooks gave the Knights a 40-26 lead. “We have great athletes,” said Brennan. “They’re smart, they’re playing smart, they’re good scorers and do everything on the court. And with our one senior it all comes together.”Brooks was the difference in the game. In addition to scoring 17 points he was the mainstay in moving the ball around, finding open teammates and all five starters scored at least 2 points in the game.“Coach emphasizes in practice sharing the ball more,” said Brooks. “We have to get one more pass. He’s always saying, ‘one more, one more, one more’ all the time so it gets into our heads and we look for the open guy. If you have an open shot that’s good. But if you have one more shot that’s that much more time and the other guy gets to catch and shoot for a more wide open shot.”Although Brooks is going to LIU this September to play football his skills on the basketball court are great. He believes that playing two sports helped him become “more agile and athletic.”“My first sport ever was basketball,” he said. “I remember my dad taking me to a small church court in Norwood called Holy Family. I worked on ball handling drills there with a former point guard James Lamont, who is now at William & Mary. I worked with him and his dad. That’s where I really developed my skills and I kept it up through elementary school and middle school. I actually stopped playing football in seventh and eighth grade to start pursuing basketball more. That’s where I learned most of my agility skills.”Drullinsky finished with 12 points and junior Nick Holloway chipped in with 7 for Old Tappan, while Valley got contributions from DaCosta (8), Higgins (8) and Buoye (7). “It was a great team effort - coaches, bench, everyone was into it,” said Brennan. “It was a great environment. It feels great. We started the season off rough but it’s coming along now. It's exciting - young guys in the gym. I’m looking forward to next year. We have a bunch of young guys ready to play.”“At first it was a challenge to get everybody on the same page, sharing the ball,” added Brooks. “A lot of guys get frustrated because we’re a really competitive team and when things don’t go our way we show it. But we’ve gotten a lot better. When I got hurt and came back it was two completely different teams. These guys are a lot more composed now, we’re passing the ball and doing a lot of the right things we weren’t doing before.” “We have different guys stepping up in different games,” said Ferraro. “One day it’s one guy dumping in a couple of points and the next game it’s somebody else. When it’s a team win it’s great.”By JC Baumuller/NJS.com Staff Writer

Brennan scores 20 to lead Old Tappan past Pascack Valley

Feb 08, 2024

David Brennan knocked down three 3-pointers and scored a team-high 20 points as Old Tappan defeated Pascack Valley 58-43 in Old Tappan.Evan Brooks added 17 points and Dylan Drullinski scored 12 in the win.BY Matt Cosentino | For NJ Advance Media