Name: Jacob McCoy

High school: Portage Area

Hometown: Portage

Sport: Baseball

Position: Pitcher

College choice: UPJ

Other colleges considered: Mansfield

Why I picked UPJ: “I felt it was the best fit for me, and it was close to home so my family would be able to go watch me play.”

Greatest high school achievement: “Being able to win playoff games with my teammates around me, and them just cheering their hearts out.”

Coach Larry McCabe’s quote: “Jake has been an outstanding player and leader for us. He has spent a lot of time in the weight room, and has really worked hard on becoming a 3-pitch pitcher. He led the Heritage Conference in strikeouts his sophomore season. We are excited to watch him work his Fastball, Change-Up, and Curve Ball this season.”

How I got my start playing baseball: “Started playing at 5 years old. Really enjoyed it and it kept my interest to continue to play. My dad was a big part in keeping the interest and continuing to practice and grow.”

Favorite college growing up: Penn State

Other interests: None

What getting to play in college means to me: “It means so much to me, it is just amazing that I am getting the opportunity to play the sport I love after high school.”

Probable college major: Pre-physical therapy

Parents: Shawn and Mary McCoy

Name: Gracie Gioiosa

High School: Altoona Area

Hometown: Altoona

Sport: Cross country

College choice: Juniata College

Other colleges considered: Chatham, Berea, Oberlin

Why I picked Juniata: “For its small size, outdoorsy environment, tight-knit community and unique traditions. Additionally, it has great opportunities for students hoping to go to law school, like a mock trial team I am excited to join.”

Greatest high school achievement: Helping to run the mock election through the Youth In Government Club.

Coach Tabitha Quinn’s quote: “Gracie has an impressive work ethic. She is a solid and strong athlete who shows true leadership and commitment. She is passionate and inspiring in her focus on her training and racing, while having a very positive team-oriented attitude.”

How I got my start running: Started running at Mountain Top Track, thanks to coach Lois (Smith).

Favorite college growing up: Penn State

Outside interests: Writing for the school newspaper, Russian history and politics, the U.S. Supreme Court.

What getting to run in college means to me: “Getting the opportunity to continue cross country in college means setbacks are not final.”

Probable college major: History

Parents: Nicole and Neil Gioiosa

Name: Ian Nagel

High school: Cambria Heights

Hometown: Carrolltown

Sport: Golf

College choice: Juniata

Other colleges considered: Mount Aloysius

Why I picked Juniata: “I chose Juniata because I felt a strong connection with Coach (Rob) Ritchey, thanks to his honesty and clear vision for my golf career. The team made me feel at home, something I didn’t experience in high school, and that sense of belonging to a golf community was important to me.”

Greatest high school achievement: “Playing at Sunnehanna for the first time, in the Wheeling tournament, and finishing in the top 10.”

Coach Eric Nagel’s quote: “Ian is a highly driven individual. Without a team to support him, he took it upon himself to become the best golfer he could be. He dedicated his time after school and on weekends to practicing alone, constantly working to improve his game. It was this determination that led him to this opportunity.”

How I got my start playing golf: “I began playing golf at a young age with my dad, but it wasn’t until the COVID lockdown that I started taking it seriously. During that time, Dave Caldwell would pick me up every day to hit the course, which ignited my passion for the game. I owe a lot to him — not only for helping me become a better golfer but also for making me a better person throughout the process. Once I committed to improving my game, Dylan Link played a crucial role over the past five years, refining my swing and helping me grow mentally. Without his guidance, I wouldn’t be the golfer I am today. I also want to thank my mom for taking me to the course every day, during countless summers, and nurturing my love for the game. And of course, to my dad — his constant encouragement pushed me to be the best golfer and person I can be. Without his motivation, I can’t imagine where I’d be, either as a golfer or an individual.”

Favorite college growing up: Duke

Other interests: Basketball, skiing, officiating basketball games and being an active member in my community and church

What getting to play in college means to me: “Playing in college is the greatest reward I could ask for. Without a coach or team to guide me, I had to push myself to improve my game on my own. Staying motivated and committed to becoming the best golfer I could be was essential. Earning the opportunity to play in college is a testament to the fact that my hard work truly paid off.”

Probable college major: Biology/pre-dental

Parents: Eric and Tammy Nagel