Jake Jurkacek '24 Recruiting Profile

“Find something you love and go after it with all of your heart” (Jim Abbott)

Early on my freshman year, I read the baseball statistics of how many high school players will play in college and how many will actually get a shot in the big league.  These stats might be discouraging to most players, but they served as a fuel that lit a fire in me, which still burns bright to this day. My determination to be one of these college players began that day, and my focus became improving myself on and off the field.   

Looking back on those years, I honestly had a really difficult schedule. Being a competitive two- sport athlete and taking academically challenging classes, there was a lot on my plate. However, none of that deterred me or even brought a question to my mind about my goals.   I knew that all of these challenges would benefit me in the long run, but also, quitting was just never an option.  I feel that this mentality will be the driving force that brings me success in college as I work toward a degree in math and finance. I don’t claim to be a hard worker because I feel like that’s what you want to hear, I say it because I believe it. I promise to be the most hardworking player on your team.  One of the best compliments that I heard from my coaches over the years was that, “I was one of the most coachable players that they had ever worked with”.  I have always respected the knowledge of my coaches and used this feedback to continue to grow and improve each year.  Although every player’s goal is to win games, I feel that I learned more from my team’s failures than from our successes.  It was the tough seasons that taught me leadership, teamwork and to persevere in spite of obstacles.  I feel that all of these qualities, in addition to my talent, will be an asset to your program.  I promise you that I will strive to be the best I can be and better.