Summer welcome break for Jones

Josh Jones can now relax and enjoy the summer break after a long and hectic schedule that saw him juggle academics and playing for the University of West Alabama Tigers.

Josh Jones, seen here pitching for the University of West Alabama, helped the Tigers reach the NCAA Division II Tournament finals and posted a 3.25 ERA with a 5-1 record in the Gulf South Conference’s regular season. (UWA.COM)

“The team and I had one heck of a season. We ended up with a 42-11 win-loss record, won the Gulf South Conference regular season title, and a week later won the conference tournament to advance in the NCAA Division II national finals,” Jones said in a Facebook message.

“We were ranked fourth in the nation and were two wins short of making it to the College World Series,” added Jones, who last year became a member of the seven-time College World Series finalists Tigers.

Jones, now that school and the season over, usually hangs out with his friends and teammates by either grilling fish and steaks or plays the lawn game cornhole otherwise known as bean bag toss.

“Other than that, I also participate in campus intramural sports like co-ed volleyball. Sometimes my friends and I drive to Tuscaloosa and watch the football games of the University of Alabama Crimson Tide,” he added.

The Sociology/Criminal Justice major said that it took some time before he finally adjusted to the student-athlete life where at first he had a hard time balancing his studies and training.

“I also had to focus on academics and maintain my grades, and at the same time train at the baseball field everyday then continue my studies mostly every night at home,” added Jones, whose minor is Political Science. “Unlike in the Saipan Little League where we sometimes practice at least three times a week and your grades won’t affect your playing time on the field.”

Jones, despite all of the hardships he experienced, remains amazed by being part of an NCAA Division II athletic program.

“It remains unreal for me. The school athletic program spoils us with lots of gear and we’re being trained by the best personnel. Even our practice jerseys that have the words ‘Spoiled Brats’ etched at the back, and equipment are sponsored by Easton,” he added.

Jones said their season begins every fall where they start practice at the field and at the same time hit the weight room for strength and conditioning.

“It has been our daily grind every fall training to prepare for our season in the spring. School and baseball, and repeat them the next day.”