When Isaac Zocco first stepped on campus in Alpena, he had no idea how much playing time he would see or what college life would look like. He could not have guessed that the title of 'National Champion' would one day be attached to his name.

Zocco started all four years on the varsity baseball team at Big Rapids before graduating in the Class of 2025. With the Cardinals, he joined the 100-hit club and broke the school record for most runs scored in a career. In addition to baseball, he played tennis and hockey for Big Rapids. In May 2025, Zocco signed with Alpena Community College to continue his baseball and academic career.

Fast forward to spring, Zocco became the Lumberjacks’ everyday second baseman and earned MCCAA Northern Conference honorable mention honors. He recorded 48 hits in 50 games, breaking the Lumberjacks’ single-season hit record and the single-game hit record with five hits in one contest.

“I expected a little bit more out of myself," Zocco said. "I’m happy with it, but I’m also not. I’m not satisfied with the results. I obviously think I can do way better than just honorable mention, but it means a lot to come out here as a freshman, start and play every game, and have a really big role. Accomplishing the single-season hit record also means a lot to me.”

While excelling on the diamond, the Big Rapids native took on a new challenge this year: Esports.

“The esports coach was like, ‘Hey, I got some scholarship money put away if you want to join up and find two other baseball guys and we can create a team,'" Zocco said. "So I got Charlie and Max, and we just stuck to the grind."

The group that formed the team for extra scholarship money finished the regular season 11-2 and reached the postseason. The Lumberjacks went on to win six postseason games, capturing the national championship.

“Oh man, it was all smiles. It was amazing,” Zocco said on the emotions of winning the championship. “I’ve never felt anything like that before.

Looking ahead to next season, Zocco and the Lumberjacks are hungry for more in the esports arena. On the baseball side, the Lumberjacks return an exciting group that could push them over the top.

“In Rocket League, we want to achieve that same goal, a national championship,” Zocco said. "For baseball, it’s always to make the playoffs and make a run at a regional title and more. I believe we have the potential to do that next year.”

After a freshman season that included a major role on the diamond, broken records at the plate and a national championship in Rocket League, Zocco has already built an impressive foundation. If his first season at Alpena is any indication, the best may still be ahead.

Photo courtesy of Isaac Zocco.