For Josh Cunnigan baseball has always been more than just a game. It's a family legacy and a personal challenge. Now a freshman catcher at Seattle University, he's looking forward to a big season ahead.
Choosing Seattle University
Josh chose Seattle University for both its unique environment and the opportunity to grow beyond his home state of California. "I wanted to get out of California for sure," he explained. "I wanted to experience something new and just see a new world."
Beyond the university itself, the baseball program played a crucial role in his decision. The presence of Head Coach Donny Harrel, who has professional catching experience, was a key factor. "Donny, for sure. I knew he had catcher experience and that's my position. I wanted to pick his brain a lot, especially since he played at the pro level," he shared. Team Chemistry and Goals As a freshman, Josh has quickly embraced the team's competitive spirit and camaraderie. "We have a competitive bond in practice. Even in the locker room, playing ping pong, it's always competitive. We bond together well and get together for events like watching football and basketball games."
When it comes to the season's goals, the message is clear: compete. "We want to compete 24/7. Being a mid-major school, we want to be tough all the time. People underestimate us."
To achieve this, he believes in pushing limits and maintaining a fearless mindset. "We have nothing to lose, so we just go out all the time and have fun." Baseball Roots and Inspiration Baseball runs deep in the Cunnigan family. "My grandpa played pro baseball, and my dad and uncle were All-Americans. My sister also played Division I softball. Just following in their footsteps inspired me to go as far as I can in this game."
His father played baseball at the University of the Pacific while also competing in football. His uncle played at USC, further reinforcing the strong athletic lineage in his family. Academic and Career Aspirations Off the field, Josh is pursuing a degree in kinesiology, with aspirations of becoming an anesthesiologist or a sports doctor. "My mom is a physician assistant, so I want to continue that medical route," he explained. Looking Ahead With his first collegiate season underway, Josh is focused on making an impact. "I came here just wanting to have fun and compete as much as I can. I know I'm a freshman and not expected to have a lot of playing time, but when I get my chance, I will always be ready to step in, met my standards and produce."
As he continues his journey at Seattle University, one thing is clear: Josh will be ready to embrace every opportunity, both on the field and in the classroom, with the same competitive spirit that has defined his career thus far.
Beyond the university itself, the baseball program played a crucial role in his decision. The presence of Head Coach Donny Harrel, who has professional catching experience, was a key factor. "Donny, for sure. I knew he had catcher experience and that's my position. I wanted to pick his brain a lot, especially since he played at the pro level," he shared. Team Chemistry and Goals As a freshman, Josh has quickly embraced the team's competitive spirit and camaraderie. "We have a competitive bond in practice. Even in the locker room, playing ping pong, it's always competitive. We bond together well and get together for events like watching football and basketball games."
When it comes to the season's goals, the message is clear: compete. "We want to compete 24/7. Being a mid-major school, we want to be tough all the time. People underestimate us."
To achieve this, he believes in pushing limits and maintaining a fearless mindset. "We have nothing to lose, so we just go out all the time and have fun." Baseball Roots and Inspiration Baseball runs deep in the Cunnigan family. "My grandpa played pro baseball, and my dad and uncle were All-Americans. My sister also played Division I softball. Just following in their footsteps inspired me to go as far as I can in this game."
His father played baseball at the University of the Pacific while also competing in football. His uncle played at USC, further reinforcing the strong athletic lineage in his family. Academic and Career Aspirations Off the field, Josh is pursuing a degree in kinesiology, with aspirations of becoming an anesthesiologist or a sports doctor. "My mom is a physician assistant, so I want to continue that medical route," he explained. Looking Ahead With his first collegiate season underway, Josh is focused on making an impact. "I came here just wanting to have fun and compete as much as I can. I know I'm a freshman and not expected to have a lot of playing time, but when I get my chance, I will always be ready to step in, met my standards and produce."
As he continues his journey at Seattle University, one thing is clear: Josh will be ready to embrace every opportunity, both on the field and in the classroom, with the same competitive spirit that has defined his career thus far.