Harrogate, TN -- Lincoln Memorial baseball junior catcher Joey LaMattina has been selected as this week's First Century Bank Scholar-Athlete of the Week. A native of Knoxville, Tennessee, LaMattina has proven to be a cornerstone of the Railsplitters baseball program both behind the plate and in the classroom. As a mechanical engineering major, he has maintained a remarkable 3.906 grade point average while balancing the rigorous demands of collegiate athletics.

On the diamond, LaMattina has showcased a high level of performance since his debut as a freshman, most notably hitting a home run in his very first career at-bat. Over the course of 23 games and 20 starts last season, he maintained a disciplined presence at the plate, evident by a .386 on-base percentage and 15 walks. His offensive contributions include 15 hits, 15 runs scored, and a slugging percentage of .284.

LaMattina's academic resume is equally distinguished, marked by a consistent commitment to excellence that has earned him a spot on the LMU Dean's List every semester of his college career. His intellectual contributions were recognized on a national scale with the 2025 D2 ADA Academic Achievement Award and through his inclusion on the 2025 SAC Commissioner's Honor Roll. Additionally, he was named an LMU ABE Scholar for both the fall of 2024 and spring of 2025 and was an integral part of the group that secured the 2024-25 Team Academic Excellence Award.

Beyond his studies, LaMattina has actively pursued professional development within his field. This past summer, he completed a mechanical engineering internship at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville, gaining hands-on experience to supplement his degree. This professional endeavor followed a successful 2024 summer season where he sharpened his skills playing for the Johnson City Doughboys in the Appalachian League.

LaMattina is also dedicated to his community and faith. He is an active member of the St. Julian Catholic Church College Group, where he participates in bible study, assists during services, and helps maintain the church facilities. With his teammates, he frequently engages in local outreach through events like Halloween Havoc and ROHO Christmas shopping. However, he considers his most meaningful contribution to be his work with the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation through the Team Fight Against Cancer initiative, a cause he champions alongside the rest of the LMU baseball team.