SAAC Spotlight - Joe Cooney
Joe Cooney
Belmont Abbey
Baseball
Junior
What is your hometown?
West Chester, Ohio
Why did you choose your school?
I loved the culture, high academic success and the emphasis our coaches put on growing us as men both on and off the field.
How did you choose your major?
I have always wanted to become a doctor, so biology seemed very fitting to give me the prerequisites to achieve that goal.
What is your favorite class? Why?
Microbiology because Dr. Ellington made the class extremely fun and always kept us on our toes. Plus learning about viruses during COVID added to the interest of the class.
What is your dream job?
Orthopedic Surgeon.
What advice would you give to an incoming freshman?
Time management and prioritizing will set you up for success early.
How many years have you been involved with SAAC?
Three.
What makes Conference Carolinas a great conference to be a part of?
The importance the conference places on helping others and extending our outreach into the community makes it very rewarding to be a part of.
What does being a champion in body, mind, and soul mean to you?
“Clear eyes, full hearts, can’t lose." I think that’s what being a champion is. You are physically in the right shape, but also your mind is in the right spot and you’re doing whatever it takes for the team. Being a champion starts with being the best teammate you can be.
What is the most important thing you have learned from balancing the demands of athletics and academics?
Prioritizing the best you can and finding time to sleep because it is still important. Do work in advance and find a place you can get away from distractions and get your work done efficiently.
What is your most memorable moment as a student-athlete so far?
Going to the regional championship game my freshman year.
One thing people don’t know about you is?
I’ve rode the longest and fastest zipline in North America
What is a non-athletic talent that you have?
I can cook pretty well.
Favorite pump up song or music?
"Bring Me to Life" by Evanescence.