Ramapo College Mourns the Loss of Baseball Standout Nick Danbrowney
A promising life tragically cut short has left the Ramapo College community and the New Jersey Athletic Conference in mourning. Nick Danbrowney, a celebrated baseball player for the Roadrunners, has passed away, leaving behind a legacy of athletic achievement and cherished memories.
The Ramapo College Athletic Department confirmed the heartbreaking news, expressing profound sadness over the loss of a beloved member of their family. “Nick will always be a member of the Roadrunner family,” stated a senior athletic official.
Danbrowney concluded his four-year career at Ramapo College this past spring, setting a new program record with 225 career strikeouts. Throughout his time on the mound, he amassed 20 career wins in 45 appearances, including 38 starts. His impact extended beyond statistics; he was described as a joyful and selfless athlete. “He was a joyful student-athlete who was always kind and caring. He was a selfless human and at the same time a fierce competitor,” said his head coach.
A pivotal moment in Danbrowney’s career came during the 2024 NJAC Tournament Championship run, where he secured the win in the semifinal game against The College of New Jersey (TCNJ). In that game, he delivered a season-high performance, striking out nine batters in 8.1 innings of work. Over his final three seasons, Danbrowney consistently dominated opposing hitters, recording over 50 strikeouts each year, culminating in a career-best 72 strikeouts during his senior campaign.
His talent was widely recognized, earning him accolades such as two NJAC Rookie of the Week awards and two NJAC Pitcher of the Week selections. He was also honored as an ABCA/Rawlings NCAA Div. III All-Region IV Second Team selection and a D3baseball.com All-Region IV Third Team honoree. “Nick was the biggest competitor I have ever coached,” his coach added. “He showed up with a smile on his face every day and brought joy to everyone around him. The legacy he left on our school and program will last forever and he will always be in our hearts.”
Following his collegiate career, Danbrowney pursued his professional baseball aspirations, signing a contract with the Bakersfield Train Robbers of the PECOS League in Bakersfield, California. In his brief time with the Train Robbers, he posted a 2-0 record with 32 strikeouts in 21.1 innings pitched across eight appearances and two starts.
Beyond his athletic achievements, Danbrowney was dedicated to his academic pursuits, poised to complete his degree in social science this fall. He also continued to contribute to the Athletic Department, having worked there for the past two years. A senior official noted, “He loved his teammates and he touched the lives of many of our student-athletes, coaches, and staff here at Ramapo.”
Ramapo College will share information regarding memorial services for Danbrowney on its athletics website and social media channels as it becomes available. Once a Roadrunner, Always a Roadrunner!
