J. Rodney Tafoya
J. Rodney Tafoya — Now the author of his first book—Ageless Arm—baseball has played a huge role in Rod’s colorful career, but never secondary to education and family.
Born and raised in Santa Fe, New Mexico, he was the youngest of four brothers and one sister born to Tony and Maude Tafoya. He began his education at Gonzales Elementary School, then entered St. Michael’s High School as a seventh-grader. At St. Michael’s, he was student body vice president his senior year, enjoyed English most of all, and is presently a foundation board member of his alma mater.
At New Mexico Highlands University in Las Vegas, New Mexico, Rod majored in business management and studied three years there before transferring to Newman University in Wichita, Kansas, and graduating in 1989 with a degree in business management. Not only was he solid in academics, but, as he was back at St. Michael’s, Rod continued on as a stellar left-handed pitcher both at NMHU and at Newman.
He was hooked on community services and still is. When the struggling nation of Guatemala was in times of need, Rod was right there in 1999-2000 as part of a Rotary International Project to aid the needy. He traveled to Guatemala, also served as an interpreter, and even offered his assistance when an emergency surgery arose. Still at it, he also contributed to the annual baseball clinic held in Espanola, New Mexico, and spends most of his free time teaching pitching mechanics to youngsters. Then there’s his love for playing baseball and love for his family.
Currently employed as a vice president of Bank of the West in Albuquerque, New Mexico, he credits his late mother and father for instilling a good work ethic, passion, and a will to dream positive for his many successes in life. He is also thankful for his older brother, Jack, for taking the time to help him turn into a classic southpaw pitcher over these remarkable 45 years. Jim, Glenn and Judy are his other siblings who still marvel at his achievements on the mound.
In Ageless Arm, you can read it all. It’s right there. Not only does it tell of Rod’s Passion that lives in the core, but of his travels that began in his backyard and continue due to his desire and dedication.
Read his new book entitled, “Ageless Arm, My passion lives in the core.”
Books
View All J. Rodney Tafoya Books