Bison Scholar-Athlete Spotlight: Derick Donatelli
Bethany, W. Va. – The Bison Scholar-Athlete Spotlight highlights Bethany College Scholar-Athletes that exemplify outstanding leadership as an athlete, student, or in other college and community activities. These Scholar-Athletes have distinguished themselves above and beyond both in the classroom and on the playing field.
Get to know this week's Bison Scholar-Athlete Spotlight senior Derick Donatelli.
Sport: Baseball
Position: Infield / Pitcher
Hometown: Pittsburgh, Pa.
High School: North Hills
Major: Sports Management
Minor: Business Management
Activities outside of Athletics?
Full disclosure here, athletics, nutrition, and fitness are a HUGE part of my life. But I also enjoy hunting, fishing, working on old cars, and traveling.
What is your dream job?
My dream job is to be a baseball scout for the MLB. But with the reality of the pandemic and a confusing/complex job market, I now hope to work in the family business when I graduate, with the future goal of eventual ownership. I intend to find a way to continue to both play and coach baseball in the community where I live in the North Hills of Pittsburgh.
Tips for being successful?
Preparation is the key to success in my book. I always plan for the day--- and I start early! The morning hours are quiet and precious to me. It's when I am at my best and my mind is clear. This is a perfect time to get in a workout, complete a school project, decompress, or do something with baseball.
What does it mean to be a Scholar-Athlete?
I am honored to be a scholar-athlete, and this recognition means the world to me. It is validation that I have been doing the right things, working hard to be successful, both on and off the field. I try my best to be a leader, taking the time to interact with my team mates and being a good role model for the freshman and sophomore players.
Why Bethany?
I immediately knew it. The atmosphere was just right for me. We had visited 6-7 schools in my senior year of high school before we drove down to the Bethany campus. It felt comfortable and I knew I would benefit from a smaller and more focused learning environment. The time has gone fast. I have made great friends here and after five years, it still feels like home.
What is your biggest accomplishment?
My biggest accomplishment is the coordination and management of the First, Second and Third Annual Pull/Push Meet at Bethany College.
With COVID-19 restrictions, how have you adapted as an athlete and as a student?
To me, it's all about awareness. The pandemic requires all of us to make a change in how we live, and after time, it just becomes part of your routine.
As a student, I have been reading on my own more, and participating in zoom classes. I have been asking my professors more and more questions and gaining as much knowledge as I can for classes.
As an athlete, I have adapted pretty well. I am very conscious and careful and wear a mask and sanitize very often while I am there. I prefer this schedule, because I want to focus more on school work and baseball practice later in the day. Plus, as I mentioned here, it is very rewarding to have that quiet time to myself in the morning, and really work on my mental and physical well-being.
Favorite Professor on Campus?
My favorite professor is former Bethany Softball coach, Jan Forsty.
Favorite Class?
My favorite class is – surprise, surprise -- any of the classes where Jan Forsty was my instructor. She has been my advisor since my freshman year, and she has been there for me whenever I needed advice, information or a slap in the face. Jan taught me the importance of showing up, doing the right thing, paying attention to detail, and believing in myself.
