Jay McConnell...my hero

I know this is the High School board, but many of you know Jim McConnell, former coach of West Meck (now retired). His son plays for Belmont Abbey, the team living the storybook dream season and headed to the World Series. Jim's son Jay is an unsung hero whose story needs to be told. (You may have read this in the Gaston paper, but here's my tribute):

Last year Senior Jay came home from summer ball in New England because of back issues. He was operated on and informed by his surgeon to never play baseball again (back surgery on 3 discs). So begrudgingly this kid shut it down, ending his baseball career. But Jay remained with the Abbey team (on the roster) as a player/coach of the catchers. And he was a whale-of-an-asset in that capacity, providing mature leadership and invaluable advice. Watching him help out was inspiring...but the story gets better.

In the semi-finals of our conference tournament, our 2 catchers were both battered with severe injuries. One more loss and we were out. So Jay seized the moment. He grabbed his gear, marched up to Coach Smith and announced: "I've got one game in me. I'm catching this game!"

Understand, Jay had not caught a pitch all season...and had not been able to even take batting practice. But he insisted...and with (Jim) his Dad's approval Coach Smith relented.

Remarkable Result: Jay caught a flawless game and had 2 HUGE hits. Brought tears to my eyes, watching that warrior wincing with pain when he ran or dropped to his knees to block a dirt ball. But he never complained....just kept on grinding it out.

The next morning Jay could hardly climb out of bed. But we all knew: without Jay, Abbey would not have won their conference tournament. Hero....that's what I call that kid.

 

Thanks for sharing that story - it made my night.

 

What a great, great story and inspiration! Thanks so much for sharing!

 

Thanks

He is now my hero as well.

 

I've followed Jay's career since HS. He was one of the best HS catchers in the state. Great size, great mobility and a great bat. When you see Jay for the first time, he is exactly what a baseball player should look like and he played the game the right way.

I remember his very first start at Gardner Webb. I believe it was the very first pitch: He was going to catch a popup and collided with a teammate---tore his ACL (out for the season). Jay ended up transferring to BA and shored up their catching needs. I saw Jay and his Dad about a month ago and I was surprised Jay wasn't playing. We talked for awhile discussing the BA team when he told me due to injuries he was finished playing (the sadness in his voice was clear.)

My son told me he saw Jay at the conference tournament and I was shocked when he told me that he was in uniform swinging a bat.

To read this story is incredible, but it doesn't surprise me. The passion for baseball Jay has is more tha most. It would not surprise me that his future lies in coaching (it's in the genes.) However, what Jay accomplished in that game in the regionals is stuff for legends. It's something he will remember the rest of his life...especially while sporting his National Championship ring.

 

I love this story.....what a kid (young man)!!

 

If...I mean when we win the title, Jay ought to be the one who receives the trophy. All gave some....some gave all.

 

Great Post and Tribute to JAY

UK7Dook3,

Great post highlighting a fantastic career and most certainly a spine tingling performance. Can't wait to see Jim again and see the grin on his face, most certainly he was proud of Jay beforehand, but this was extra special.

Thanks!!!!

 

Cool story! Sharing stories like this is what's great about reading this board. Living here in Greenville (NC), I would never get a chance to read a human interest story like this unless it was associated with ECU or local schools.

 

Jay McConnell

I had the pleasure of working with Jim at West Meck and also being around Jay a lot when he was in school. If every athelete would adapt his work ethics and love for the game, there would be a shortage of positions on College and Pro teams. This young man is the very example that ALL parents dream that their kids can be. I hope that when he finishes college, that if he wants to, that Belmont Abbey offer him and Assistant Coaches position, he's definitely earned it.
WAY TO GO JAY! Lot of love and respect for you son. (RHearn)