PITTSBURGH-- -- Joseph was accompanied by his parents during the award ceremony. His father, Mark Cosentino, could not have been more proud.
“Our entire family went to see Joseph play at the Semper Fidelis All-American Bowl,” said Mark Cosentino. “It was a really special game for him to be a part of. They brought athletes from all of the U.S. The kids really got to learn about what the Marines are. Before the SFAAB I don’t think the kids realized what the Marines went through to protect our country.”
According to Maj. Hunt, Joseph Cosentino was the only athlete in Pittsburgh to be selected to play in the SFAAB.
“It’s important that we recognize kids like JJ (Joseph Cosentino) who are going to college and who may not have a path in the Marine Corps but have shown exceptional ability in other avenues, be it sports or academics, that we support their decision,” said Maj. Hunt. “We are not just a recruiting force we are Americas Marine Corps. We identify a lot with organized sports as far as leadership, leading your peers, and being able to endure, so it’s important that we recognize them and show that we have a lot in common with them not just in a military sense but as people.”
With the ending of a school year begins preparation for the next. Joseph Cosentino’s preparations will begin a bit sooner than others.
“I’m going to Florida State in 27 days,” said Joseph Cosentino. “They recruited me, I went down there and I loved it. There were a few schools looking at me. Florida State is what I chose and everything fits me there. It’s perfect for me so I can’t wait.” “We are really excited,” said Mark Cosentino. “It’s a great opportunity for him both athletically and academically. It’s a great school and they have a great academic program and as far as football, their national champions right now. On top of that, his quarterback coaches are two of the best in the country. So what I like to say is ‘whatever he can be, they’re going to get him there.’ They’re good people. It’s important for my wife and I that he’s going to be around good people no matter what.”
“I wish JJ and his family the best of luck. We look forward to seeing him playing on Saturdays very soon,” said Maj. Hunt.