Joe Sottolano

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Joe Sottolano

Joe Sottolano, a New York native, was one of only 36 players nationwide chosen to try out for Team USA in 1990. His illustrious playing career included being a vital member of the 1988 Division III NCAA Baseball National Championship team, where he was honored as the Most Outstanding Player (MOP). With 23 years of Division I coaching experience, including 14 as a head coach, he has seen over 20 of his student-athletes selected in the MLB Amateur Draft and has coached 46 All-Americans. Notably, one of his players, Chris Rowley, ascended to the Major Leagues. Joe's enduring commitment to Excellence is reflected in both his playing and coaching careers. His foundational coaching values—Integrity First, Service Before Self, and Excellence—were firmly established during his tenure at West Point. These principles have guided his approach to coaching and mentoring throughout his career. Joe's journey began at Minisink Valley High School in Orange County, New York, where he was named the 1986 Times Herald Records Tri-County Player of the Year. He then excelled as a left-handed pitcher at Ithaca College, leading his team to a national title as a sophomore and earning the title of most outstanding player in the Division III World Series. After completing his Bachelor of Science in PE Teaching with a minor in Health at Ithaca College in 1990, he started his coaching career at Drexel University in Philadelphia, PA. There, he was instrumental in building a future championship-contending program by managing the pitching staff and the team's strength and agility programs. His recruiting efforts brought considerable talent to the team. He later returned to Ithaca College to earn a Master of Science while assisting with the baseball team, further refining his coaching abilities. In 1992, he joined the United States Military Academy (USMA) at West Point as an Assistant Baseball Coach, a role he held until 2000 when he was promoted to Head Coach. He excelled in recruiting and fundraising, significantly enhancing the program's competitive stature. He was responsible for on-field instruction, practice schedules, and the development of comprehensive training programs for the team. Under his leadership, USMA's Division I Baseball Team became a national contender, achieving its only NCAA tournament berths in the program's history during his tenure (2000, 2004, 2005, 2009, 2012, and 2013). He remains the all-time winningest coach in the Academy's history and was named Conference Coach of the Year three times (2004, 2005, and 2012) and was a finalist for National Coach of the Year in 2009. Following his tenure at West Point, Joe became a premier instructor at the Frozen Ropes National Training Center. He later served as the Lead Travel Team Instructor for Extra Innings Baseball/Softball Facility. In these roles, he developed training manuals and instructed both young men and women in baseball and softball. His recent role at Holy Family Schools in Alabama allows him to oversee the physical education curriculum and athletic activities, where he integrates sports skills with life lessons and Christian values. On a personal note, Joe cherishes time with his wife, Lori, and their two sons, Nick and Tyler. An avid outdoorsman, he enjoys hunting and fishing. His philanthropic efforts include substantial donations to individuals and private groups and contributing to community welfare through various means. Joe Sottolano continues to influence the world of baseball and education through his dedication to fostering integrity, leadership, and Excellence in young athletes.

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