Stony Brook University's baseball team has introduced a new member, five-year-old Jordan Marotta. He is the youngest recipient of an advanced bionic arm and joins the Seawolves through a partnership with Team IMPACT. This organization connects children facing serious illnesses and disabilities with college athletic teams to improve their quality of life.
Head coach Matt Senk expressed excitement about Jordan's addition to the team: "We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Jordan Marotta to our baseball family," he said. "Jordan embodies all the qualities we look for in a Stony Brook teammate — he’s positive, enthusiastic, selfless, fearless, and fun-loving. He’s truly an inspiration to our entire program, and we are incredibly lucky to have him as a Seawolf!"
On January 23, Jordan was officially introduced at the Stony Brook Athletics Complex. During this event, he signed his letter of intent surrounded by his family, new teammates, baseball staff, and members of the athletic department. As part of the team, Jordan will contribute during games, practices, and events.
Jordan hails from Dix Hills, New York. Born without his left hand, he received a customized hero arm designed by Open Bionics to resemble Iron Man's arm. The prosthetic uses sensors that detect muscle contractions to facilitate bionic hand movements.
The prosthetic has been nicknamed "nubby" by Jordan and his family due to its ability to attach and detach easily.
Junior Eddie Smink remarked on having Jordan join: “It is truly a special opportunity for us to have Jordan join our Stony Brook family,” Smink stated. “He is a strong, brave remarkable kid that always brings his joy and love for the game every day. The impact of him and his story has truly changed our team for the better.”
Team IMPACT's program has connected over 3,000 children with college athletic teams across America since its inception in 2011. It fosters connections promoting socialization and resilience among participants while partnering with more than 700 colleges nationwide.
For more information about Jordan or Seawolves baseball visit SBU Athletics' website or watch News12 Long Island's video coverage.