Jayce “J-Dogg” McConnell
Jayce will be entering 7th grade and has recently been accepted into Grace Christian School for the upcoming school year. A dedicated athlete, he has proudly played for the Plant City Warriors for the past five years, demonstrating commitment, teamwork, and perseverance both on and off the field.
What was it like playing in Cooperstown?
It was a lot of fun being with my team that I’ve been with for five years. A lot of memories, and I feel like we played great as a team.
What was your favorite memory at Cooperstown?
I think my favorite memory was definitely celebrating the wins in the barracks with my team, by far.
When you weren’t playing baseball at Cooperstown, what were you doing in your free time?
We played basketball in the barracks, went to the National Baseball Hall of Fame, and went to the minor league hat store in Downtown Cooperstown. We also went to “Where it all began” bat Company, and everyone got custom wood bats.
How different is it playing in the cold in New York compared to the heat in Plant City?
It was probably harder on our parents because we were running around on the field, and we weren’t too cold.
How’s it feel playing at the same historic fields where former MLB players and legends played?
Answer: It was pretty cool because I hope to someday follow in their footsteps.
Did you prefer the morning or night games in the tournament and why?
Definitely morning because after the morning games we got to go back to the barracks and just have fun.
What advice would you give to any future players when playing in the Cooperstown tournament?
I would say bring hot hands, prepare for the super late-night games, and meeting a lot of people from all over.
What’s a sport you haven’t played on a team yet that you want to try?
Tackle Football- I’ve always wanted to try that, but my Mom says no.
