Joe Monte

Joe Monte was an All-High 1st team selection in 1973 & 1974. The third of three Monte brothers to play at Bennett, (Mike & Rick in late 1960’s/early 1970’s) Joe compiled a career pitching record of 14-2. Pitching in the sectional finals in 1973, Joe gave up one earned run in the Tiger’s 2-1 loss to Tonawanda, a team that had 3 players chosen in the 1973 amateur baseball draft. Going 5-0 in 1974, Joe led the Tigers to an undefeated Cornell Cup championship. In his two All-High seasons, Joe struck out 86 batters in 69 innings and posted a remarkable earned run average of 0.50. In addition to his dominant pitching, Joe contributed a .425 batting average and truly earned the ultimate praise of coach Jerry Berkman in calling Joe “the best picther I ever had at Bennett.” Joe has since retired after 20 years of service at the NFTA and now resides in Cheektowaga with his wife Michelle, and daughters Elaina and Elyse.