Remembering Dan Russoman: A Hammonton Sports Voice Silenced Too Soon

If you've ever been to a Hammonton High School game, a St. Joe's Academy matchup, or any local sports event in Hammonton, chances are you've encountered Dan Russoman, the longtime Sports Editor and News Director of The Hammonton Gazette.

Sadly, Russoman passed away on Wednesday, July 16, after a battle with metastatic adenocarcinoma, a form of cancer that starts in glandular tissue, which is tissue that lines certain internal organs and produces fluids like mucus.

He was diagnosed in April as the cancer had spread to his spine, causing several compression fractures, a few lymph nodes around Russoman's brain, and led to fluid surrounding his lungs.

I had met Dan on a few occasions while calling Hammonton football and baseball games and had the pleasure of calling some Blue Devils baseball games at the Coaches vs Cancer Baseball Tournament at Mainland a few years back for BFA Sports.

He was an awesome partner, providing plenty of back stories and insight on the Hammonton players.  He offered great color commentary and analysis on the team and players, making him a great partner to call a game with.

From Trenton State to the Gazette: His Career Journey

Russoman went to Trenton State College and worked at the Hammonton Gazette since the paper began in 1997.

Honoring Dan Russoman at the Hammonton Hot Shots Game

He was often seen covering the Hammonton Hot Shots South Jersey South Shore Baseball League team at Hammonton Lake Park.  The team honored him before a game recently with some words from the team's public address announcer, Matthew Donio.

“Before we begin tonight’s game, we would like to take a moment to recognize a member of the Hot Shots family who can’t be here on opening night. For years, Dan Russoman has covered our team for The Hammonton Gazette and has recently been diagnosed with cancer.  As Dan continues his battle, we take a moment now to recognize all of his contributions to our team over the years. On behalf of the entire team, we would like to dedicate tonight’s game to Dan Russoman,” Donio said via the Hammonton Gazette.

He also hosted the paper's "Gazette Sports Week" and the "Gazette High School Football Report on their YouTube channel, which highlighted the achievements of Hammonton athletes, coaches, and more.

Survived by Family and Future Tributes

He is survived by his wife, Laura, and their three daughters.

More information regarding services and arrangements will be added when they are available.