PITMAN--There's no doubt the NJAC boasts some extremely talented athletes but we want fans to know that there's more to these athletes than just their accomplishments on the field, court, etc. The NJAC Student-Athlete Spotlight highlights one student-athlete each Friday.
 
The NJAC Student-Athlete Spotlight for the week ending February 8th comes to us from Rutgers University-Camden. A sophomore baseball player from Blackwood, NJ, Joe Brooks is currently pursuing a degree in History Education.
 
Name: Joe Brooks
Instituion: Rutgers University-Camden
Year: Sophomore
Sport: Baseball
Hometown, State: Blackwood, NJ
High School: Gloucester Catholic High School
Major: History Education
 
What made you choose your institution?
 I chose Rutgers because of its great academic reputation. It's a priviledge to be able to play a sport here as well, but school comes first. It was an easy decision for me.
 
What made you want to become a DIII collegiate athlete? 
I wanted to continue to play the sport that I grew up playing and loved.
 
What was your first memory of playing your sport?
My first memory was playing with all of my friends from my neighborhood. Whether we were at the field or in the front yard, we were always out playing. We couldn't get enough.
 
What has been the greatest or most memorable moment of your experience as a collegiate athlete?
Winning the regular season conference title or competing in a regional.
 
Do you have any pre-game rituals? If so, what are they?
I wouldn't say that I have any pregame rituals, but maybe more of a weekly superstition. My family and I go to Skeeter's, a restaurant in my town, for mussels on Monday's during the season. It's something I've grown up doing while playing and have just continued it.
 
What famous athlete do you look up to?
I would have to say Derek Jeter and Mike Trout. They both not only play the game the right way, but also do the right thing off the field as well.
 
Where do you see yourself in five years?
Hopefully teaching in a high school classroom. I would also like to have a Masters degree in Educational Leadership in hopes of becoming a principal one day.
 
What is your favorite part of competing in the NJAC?
There are a lot of perks of being an NJAC student-athlete. The NJAC is one of the most respected conferences in all of Division III sports. It's a great feeling being able to play against the country's top competition each day.
 
What is your biggest accomplishment OFF the field, court, etc.?
Being able to maintain a high GPA while playing the game I love and spending time with family. Also, I wouldn't say it is an accomplishment, but I enjoy being able to help those less fortunate as a member of SAAC at Rutgers. We do various can drives, adopting of families during the holidays, and also help out at various events. There's no better feeling than lending a helping hand or putting a smile on someone's face.
 
Quick facts about Joe...
Can't live without:  Family, music, and Sunday dinners at my grandparents
Favorite movie: American Sniper
Favorite class you've ever taken: Reading and Writing in Secondary Curriculum
Favorite food: Mussels in white sauce or cheese fries
Biggest Fear: Heights
Favorite musical artist: Jason Aldean
 
*The NJAC Student-Athlete Spotlight deadline is every Friday by 10:00 AM. Fill out the survey and you could be selected!