Joe Sottolano, hailing from New York, distinguished himself early in his career by being one of 36 players nationwide chosen to try out for Team USA in 1990. His collegiate achievements include starring in the 1988 Division III NCAA Baseball National Championship, where he was named Most Outstanding Player (MOP).

Over his 23 years in Division I coaching, including 14 as a head coach, Joe guided over 20 student-athletes to selections in the MLB Amateur Draft and coached 46 All-Americans. His coaching prowess was instrumental in advancing at least one player, Chris Rowley, to the Major Leagues.

These accomplishments highlight Joe's relentless competitive spirit, both as a player and coach, underpinned by his core values of Integrity First, Service Before Self, and Excellence—tenets he embraced during his coaching tenure at West Point.

Joe's athletic journey began at Minisink Valley High School in Orange County, New York, where he earned the 1986 Times Herald Records Tri-County Player of the Year. He continued to excel 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 earning his Bachelor of Science with a concentration in PE Teaching and a minor in Health from Ithaca College in 1990, he started his coaching career at Drexel University in Philadelphia, overseeing the pitching staff and the team's strength and agility programs. His recruitment efforts were pivotal in building a future championship contender.

He later returned to Ithaca College to earn a Master of Science and further honed his coaching skills while assisting with the baseball team.

In 1992, he joined the United States Military Academy at West Point as an Assistant Baseball Coach and was promoted to Head Coach in 2000. During his tenure, he played a critical role in developing its Division I Baseball Team, achieving exceptional recruiting and fundraising results in a highly competitive environment. His responsibilities included managing the team's pitching and practice schedules and developing comprehensive training programs.

As head coach until 2013, Joe transformed USMA's baseball program into a nationally ranked contender, leading them to multiple NCAA tournament berths—the first in the program's century-long history. His leadership also resulted in significant financial support for the program, enhancing USMA's athletic facilities and resources.

After West Point, he became a premier instructor at the Frozen Ropes National Training Center. He later served as the Lead Travel Team Instructor at Extra Innings Baseball/Softball Facility, where he developed training manuals and coached both young men and women.

Recently, Joe moved to Alabama to oversee the physical education curriculum and extracurricular athletic activities at Holy Family Schools. He emphasizes ethics, character, leadership, and Christian values, significantly enhancing the school's athletic programs.

Joe also coaches the 14u Southeast Canes Scout team alongside his sons, Nick and Tyler, and works as a sales inspector for Yellowhammer Roofing in Huntsville, Alabama.

On a personal note, he enjoys spending quality time with his wife, Lori, and their sons. An avid hunter and fisher, he is also committed to his community, making generous donations to local and private groups and supporting people in need through contributions to the Manna House.

Joe Sottolano's life and career are a testament to his dedication to sportsmanship, leadership, and community service, reflecting his deep commitment to the values he teaches.