Robert "Rob" Jacobs, grew up in the Baltimore area, but played at Penn State Scranton, when he was invited to New Bern to participate in a baseball tournament to raise money for Carolina Helene victims.

Hurricane Helene devastated Western North Carolina in late September of 2024, affecting not only the lives of the citizens living there, but also leaving a lasting impact on a utility baseball player from Scranton, PA.

Robert "Rob" Jacobs, who grew up in the Baltimore area, was a junior at Penn State Scranton, when in October, he was invited to New Bern to participate in a baseball tournament to raise money for Carolina Helene victims.

"I really didn't know what to expect," Jacobs said. "I'd never been to New Bern, but was excited for the cause and wanted to play and help those in need."

What awaited him left a lasting impression and the overwhelming desire to join the New Bern Southpaws summer collegiate baseball team in 2025.

"I couldn't believe the community reception and support," Jacobs said. "I wanted to be a part of what was happening in New Bern, to be part of this community."

Southpaws General Manager Dave Caccavaro noticed Jacobs' ability to connect with the New Bern fans, and welcomed him to join the team this summer.

"I noticed that Dave knew everyone and as a social media marketing guy this just seemed to be a natural fit for me," Jacobs said.

Rob, as he likes to be called, hopes to be a team player and connect with area youth as a way to give back.

"My dream is to travel overseas and help the youth come to America, play baseball and get a quality education," he said. "I love to meet new people and it will challenge me by going overseas, getting outside my comfort zone."

Jacobs, who stays with a host family with two children, said interacting with different people have already made this a fun season.

"If I'm not playing in the game, I will be in the stands meeting with people, engaging with the community, communicating with kids," he said.

On the field, Jacobs aspires to play at second base, but can also play in the outfield.

"I just want to be a team player and help build on my skills for my senior year at Scranton," he said. "We have so much talent and potential on this team, plus a team culture that wants to win."

The Southpaws open their Old North State League schedule Saturday at Jack Amyette Park in Jacksonville against the Ospreys.