Eastern Connecticut State University

Joseph G. Serfass was a quiet competitor who let the numbers speak for themselves. The numbers, as it turned out, were deafening, easily loud enough to reserve him a spot in the pantheon of the greatest pitchers in the 69-year history of the Eastern baseball program.

In 53 career pitching appearances, the two-time ABCA All-America won 34 games in 38 decisions (23-1 in the regular season) with a 1.64 ERA and seven saves, 219 strikeouts and only 34 walks (1.01 per game) in 302 2/3 innings. The Newington native completed nearly 40 percent (14) of his 37 career starts.

As a sophomore in 2002, the 6-foot-3 inch, 205-pound right-hander delivered a pair of complete-game post-season ‘must’ wins – including a five-hit shutout to win the program’s fourth national championship.

In Little East Conference and NCAA tournament competition, Serfass was at his finest as he led the Warriors to three LEC tournament championships, an unprecedented three straight NCAA Division III New England titles, and the aforementioned 2002 national title. In 15 LEC and NCAA post-season pitching appearances, Serfass was 11-3 with a 1.20 ERA, 61 strikeouts and ten walks in 90 1/3 innings. He completed seven of his 11 starts.

As the Little East Pitcher-of-the-Year as a junior in 2003, Serfass completed a perfect 9-0 season with three wins in post-season play. He did not allow an earned run in 25 post-season innings that spring, completing two of his three starts with 25 strikeouts and one walk. 

Serfass’ streak of 47 2/3 consecutive scoreless innings pitched during his junior season still ranks as an NCAA Division III record.

Upon graduation, Serfass pitched four professional seasons with the New York Mets, eventually reaching the Double A level in 2007 as an undrafted free agent.

Serfass holds a B.S. Degree in Physical Education from Eastern and an M.S. Degree in Coaching and Athletic Administration from Concordia University and teaches physical education and serves as head baseball coach at Windsor High School. 

Joey and Tara Serfass reside in Wethersfield with young daughters Ava and Clara.