How I Got Here Jack O’Donnell ’26

This outfielder caught the baseball bug early and has used lessons from the game throughout life.

Words by Leah Cruz

Jack O’Donnell, outfielder

I don’t remember the first time I played baseball; it’s just always been a part of my life. Playing with friends and family is a staple where I grew up in Bayonne, New Jersey.

I realized in elementary school that I was halfway decent at baseball and I decided to put in the extra work. I fell in love with the process of always improving and getting better.

Playing high school baseball at Saint Peter’s Prep in Jersey City really prepared me for the grind of playing college baseball. There were no “gimme” wins on our schedule; every game we played required mental and physical preparation to win.

I’ve always been an academically driven student, and I didn’t want to give that up to play college baseball. At TCNJ, I could do both.

I grew up playing the infield, but TCNJ had a surplus of talented infielders, so I switched to playing the outfield for the Lions. I didn’t mind the switch — I was just happy to play.

Being in the outfield, there’s nothing more exciting than when a runner tries to take an extra base and I get the opportunity to throw him out. I think I have a pretty solid arm, and I like putting it to the test.

My favorite memory at TCNJ was when we won the NJAC championship my freshman year. I didn’t start much that season, but that win was the most exhilarating feeling. Playing on a team with people who are as passionate as I am has challenged me. We have fun when we win and it hurts when we lose because we all care so much about the game.

 I’ve been blown away by how great the TCNJ coaches have been. They have suggested mechanical adjustments that have made me a better player. But what has been most helpful are their motivational words.

Former head coach Godri always had simple advice for us: “good thoughts.” If I was having a bad at-bat, I’d just think good thoughts. Coach Collazo was new this year, but encouraged us to “just do what you can.” Don’t overdo it or try to be someone you aren’t. Those are the pieces of advice I’ll take with me.

As I prepare to join EY this summer and begin a career in auditing, I’m most proud of the friends that I’ve made here and the relationships I have formed. The lessons I learned from being on this team will always stick with me.

Photos: Peter Murphy