Joe Sottolano

Joe Sottolano, a New York native, distinguished himself early in his career by being one of just 36 players nationwide chosen to try out for Team USA in 1990. His prowess on the field was evident when he played a pivotal role in winning the 1988 Division III NCAA Baseball National Championship and earned the title of Most Outstanding Player (MOP). Over his 23 years of Division I coaching, including 14 years as a Head Coach, he has guided more than 20 student-athletes to the MLB Amateur Draft and coached 46 All-Americans. Notably, one of his players, Chris Rowley, reached the Major Leagues. These accomplishments reflect his indomitable competitive spirit and dedication both on and off the field. The foundational values that he upholds—Integrity First, Service Before Self, and Excellence—were solidified during his tenure as a coach at West Point, shaping his approach to leadership and development. His journey into baseball excellence began at Minisink Valley High School in Orange County, New York, where he clinched the 1986 Times Herald Records Tri-County Player of the Year. His collegiate career was equally stellar; he was a formidable left-handed pitcher for Ithaca College, leading the Bombers to a national title as a sophomore and being named the most outstanding player of the Division III World Series. After graduating from Ithaca College in 1990 with a Bachelor of Science, Concentration in PE Teaching, and a minor in Health, he kicked off his coaching career at Drexel University in Philadelphia, PA. Here, he was pivotal in steering the pitching staff and enhancing the team's strength and agility program, laying the groundwork for a championship-worthy team. He furthered his education with a Master of Science from Ithaca College, simultaneously sharpening his coaching acumen by assisting the college baseball team. In 1992, he brought his unique brand of fiery passion and commitment to developing student-athletes to the United States Military Academy (USMA) at West Point. He started as an assistant coach and was promoted to head coach in 2000. During his tenure, he was instrumental in fostering a competitive and integrity-driven environment, significantly boosting the team's performance and reputation. From 2000 to 2013, as head coach, he transformed UZMA's Division I Baseball Team into a perennial contender in the Patriot League, leading them to their first NCAA tournament berths and achieving the most wins in the program's history over 100 years. His strategic fundraising and alumni engagement efforts raised over $4 million, expanding the donor base significantly. He also served as a prominent brand ambassador on various sports networks. After leaving USMA, he was the premier instructor at the Frozen Ropes National Training Center and, later, the Lead Travel Team Instructor at the Extra Innings Baseball/Softball Facility, where he developed comprehensive training manuals for coaches. Currently, he heads the physical education and athletic activities at Holy Family Schools in Alabama, enhancing the program with robust sports management strategies and ethical leadership training. Privately, Joe relishes time with his wife, Lori, and their two sons, enjoying hunting and fishing. He remains committed to community service, making generous donations to local charities and providing for people in need, reflecting his deep-seated values of giving back to the community. In every role he assumes, Joe Sottolano embodies a life of integrity, Excellence, and service, making a lasting impact in the world of baseball and beyond.