Baseball | 1/10/2025 10:02:32 AM
Zachary Place is his sophomore season as a member of the SUNY Poly baseball team. He serves as President of SUNY Poly's Student Athlete Advisory Council (SAAC). Place, an infielder, finished the 2024 season appearing in eight games, registering four hits and two runs batted in. He will make his Empire 8 debut in the 2025 season.
A native of Scotia Glenville NY, Place, in addition to being SAAC President at Poly, is a two-time North Atlantic Conference President's Excellence list member and Fall 2024 Empire 8 President's List recipient. In addition he is a member of Student Government at Poly (SGU) and a Diversity, Equity, Inclusivity & Belonging Committee member (DEIBAC).
Zachary Place - Empire 8 Emerging Leader
Institution: SUNY Poly
Sport: Baseball
SAAC Role: President
Major: Biology
GPA: 3.93
Community Service Projects:
None at this time.
Who is a Leader Who Has Made an Impact on You and Why?
Someone that comes to mind is my soccer coach from high school. He was a tough and strict coach who, when we messed up, would make sure that we knew it. At the time, I hated having to run and felt like we shouldn't have to be punished for mistakes. Looking back, I realized that the purpose of the "punishments," were to show that not matter what kind of hardships you faced, you have to keep going forward. They also served as incentive to work harder. If you don't want to have to run, don't make mistakes. Not that mistakes are bad or not encouraged, but you must be able to learn from them to not make the same one twice.
What Type of Leader Are You?
I believe in leading by example. How I do this, whether it is in the classroom or on the field, is by holding myself accountable and holding my teammates to a higher standard. With this, I can help push myself and others.
What Makes a Great Leader?
A great leader is someone who can lead by example. Instead of telling someone to go do something, they will show them how to do it.
What Is a Leader's Best Asset?
The best asset a leader can have is their ability to listen and show empathy to those that speak up.
What Makes Leadership Difficult?
Being able to separate yourself from being a friend and being a leader and the decisions that come with it.
What Does Leadership Look Like in a Team Setting?
A leader is always the first one to show up at practice and the last one to leave. They help to set up without being asked. They encourage others to do their best. They make sure everyone knows what is to be expected of them and holds everyone to a higher standard. They also make sure to keep everyone accountable for their actions.
Interesting or Exciting Internships You Have Done or Are Currently Working On:
I am currently working on finalizing details to shadow doctors in the emergency department of a local hosptial.
What Do You Aspire to See Yourself Doing in 10-15 Years?
In 10-15 years I hope to graduate from medical school and begin working as a doctor.
What Are You Most Looking Forward To This Season, Both Athletically and in SAAC?
Athletically, I am most looking forward to seeing how all of the work my team has put in in the offseason hopefully translates to our success. As for SAAC, I am most looking forward to seeing what kinds of community service projects we can pursue.
Favorite thing about the Empire 8:
My favorite thing about the Empire 8 is the new competition we will get to face.
Advice to Incoming Student-Athletes or Younger Teammates?
Life moves fast. Make sure to enjoy your moments because someday you will only have memories. Make sure they are good ones.
E8 Dozen
1. Favorite Professional Athlete: Ronald Acuna Jr.
2. Favorite Professional Team: New York Yankees
3. Favorite Movie: The Martian
4. Last TV Show You Binge Watched: One Piece
5. Favorite Ice Cream Flavor: Cookies and Cream
6. Last Vacation You Went On: Disney World
7. Dream Vacation Spot: Japan
8. Favorite Singer/Artist: Bruno Mars
9. If You Could Have Any Super Power, What Would It Be?: Shapeshifting
10. Fun-Fact About You: I have two middle names
11. Favorite Animal: Bear
12. Dream Job: Doctor
ABOUT THE EMPIRE 8 CONFERENCE
The members of the Empire 8 Conference are committed first and foremost to the pursuit of academic excellence and the league is regarded as an outstanding NCAA Division III conference. The membership has distinguished itself among its peer group for its quality institutions, spirited and sportsmanlike competition, outstanding services and highly ethical policies and practices. Its commitment to serve the educational needs of its student-athletes is the hallmark of the E8. For more on the Empire 8 visit www.empire8.com.
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