Cooper Kelly
Position: Shortstop
Jersey Number: 9
Hometown: Overland Park, Kansas
School: University of Kansas
Number of Seasons with Rockers: First
Career Highlight: Multi-hit game against K-State this past spring
What is your favorite baseball memory? Winning back to back state championships for my high school junior and senior year.
How did you get started playing baseball and who first introduced you to the sport? My dad introduced me to the game by the time I could hold a wiffle ball bat. He was a ball player as well and taught me just about everything I know. I fell in love with the game more and more as I got older and never looked back.
What is the best advice you have received from a coach, parent or teammate? The best advice I have gotten has been never get too high and never too low in the game. When things are going well stay humble, and when things are going your way you have to stay confident because the game of baseball is one of the most humbling games, and to be successful, you have to be both humble and confident.
Who is one professional player that you admire? Growing up it has always been Francisco Lindor. I love watching him play as he is also a switch hitting shortstop, but recently, I have loved watching Bobby Witt Jr. play as well. Being a hometown Kansas City kid, Bobby Witt Jr. may be my new favorite player because he is playing for the Royals.
Who do you look up to the most in your family? The biggest supporter in my family would be both parents pretty equally. My dad has helped me tremendously on the field and my mom off the field. Neither one has done more than the other, but I respect and appreciate both of them very much.
How would you describe your experience playing with the Green Bay Rockers? My experience with Green Bay has been nothing short of incredible. I have loved playing every day in front of the amazing fans, and I have gotten to meet so many people that I would have never had the chance to if I hadn’t gotten the chance to play here. The teammates and coaches have been great, and everything has just gone into the making of a great summer that I have been very lucky to experience.
Would you rather play a game in extreme heat or extreme cold? Definitely extremely hot, there is nothing worse than trying to hit when you can’t feel your hands. You can always cool off and drink water, but you can only wear so many layers and still be able to move around.
Favorite mantra or inspirational quote? Mine is a Bible verse, 2nd Corinthians 5:7, “For we live by faith, not by sight.” I like this verse as it is a constant reminder for me to trust in the Lord and his plan for me no matter what may be happening in my life at a given moment.
What are some of your hobbies outside of baseball? Golf and working out.
What is your favorite restaurant in Green Bay? Chipotle.
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