2015 Free Agent 1B/OF Josh Cool
Josh Cool
Who are you playing with in 2015?
Free Agent – jcoolbcool@gmail.com
What positions do you play and what is your best position?
1st base & outfield.
Best position: 1st base.
Who is the best softball player you have ever seen play?
Wow! This is definitely a tough one, because there are so many great players in the conference. Brett Helmer, Troy Krider (best hands I've ever seen), Ryan Harvey & Lee Payne.
Why do you like the game of softball?
Like baseball, one of the only sports where defense controls the game. Also, softball doesn't discriminate, you can be any size, age or gender and there will always be a spot on the field, if you put in the work.
Who is the best up and coming player in softball and why?
Shane Griffin, kid is lightening, has a nose for the ball, can spray the ball or hit for power and is tougher than nails. I mean, he rides bulls for fun in the off season, need I say more?
What is your nickname in softball and how did you get it?
JC, my buddy Jay Jeffery from back home gave it to me when I was younger.
What is your height and weight?
6'2" 225lbs
Where do you call home?
From Fort Wayne, IN but live in Atlanta, Georgia
What's your favorite way to spend an off weekend?
Spending time with loved ones
What do you do for a living?
Sales
Did you play sports in High School / College / Pro?
Yes, played baseball and football in school.
How did you get your start in softball and how did you get to the upper level?
I've played baseball almost my entire life. I started playing a little with my father as a fill in.
This was my first year in the conference. Troy Krider & Tom Crump introduced me to Rob Whitehouse with Cash House ATM.
What was the most surprising difference between Conference play and non-Conference play when you made the jump?
How much better the defense is. People don't realize how the pitchers actually pitch to the their defense, & no matter how hard you hit the ball, guys still make great plays look routine.
Is there a player that you would compare your game to?
Lee Payne or Ryan Harvey. Both of them are great players, I enjoy watching them play and listening to their advice. Lastly, I appreciate who they are off the field too.
What would you say is your career highlight to this point? Maybe one play or game that sticks out to you in particular?
Having the opportunity playing at the conference level. It takes a lot of hard work to play at this level, there are so many great players in the conference.
My first conference game in the Smoky Mountains, hitting my first homerun at The Smoky Mountain Classic.
In your career was there a single person (player/manager/coach) who had the most significant impact on your approach to the game? Why?
My father. He taught me at a young age that attitude is altitude. Have fun and play every game like it's your last, because someday it will be.
What advice can you give a young player trying to break into the upper level?
Work hard and play every play like your losing, you never know who's watching.
What type of batting grip do you use and what ounce bat?
I like grip similar to the lizard skin. I usually swing a 27oz end load or 28oz balanced.
What do you do in the offseason to prepare for the next softball season?
Try to lift, stretch and take as much batting practice as I can.
What is your favorite sports team and your favorite sport other than softball?
Notre Dame & Indianapolis Colts. I love football, always has been one of my favorite sports.
Do you have any superstitions and if so, what are they?
Yes. Always have to take one practice swing and tighten my gloves before stepping in the box.
What would be your "at bat" music selection?
Any song of Metallica's.
What is the best improvement upper level softball could make?
Don't lose sight on why you play the game.
What is your favorite non-World tournament and why?
Pic-O-Dixie in Chattanooga, TN.
What is the best softball field/complex you have played at and why?
I would have to say the Rome Braves Stadium.
Where is the best place to eat on the road after a game?
Texas Road House
What is the funniest thing you have ever seen on a softball field?
My little sister Samantha playing for the first and last time. I looked out in right field as she was showing her friends how good she is at gymnastics.
Tell us something about you that most would never know about you?
Was in a car accident in 2012. Didn't know how well I was going to be able to get around, let alone play ball again. I can definitely say every time I step on a field I feel very blessed and fortunate I was given another opportunity. 2014 was actually my first full year year back.
What was your favorite sports related gift you have ever given or received?
When I first started playing softball, my first tournament MVP.
Great teammate and a great ball player, especially at the plate. We’ll miss seeing you around Indiana JC. Good luck down there bub.
Great Teammate and even better PERSON! Finally played with him and not against him this past year. Has the most Passion I have ever seen for the game. Always the first one there and last one to leave. Would be a solid pickup for a B team.
Good luck JBCOOL