Zachary Grady is a Class of 2003 graduate of Colonie Central High School. Upon graduation, Grady enrolled at Western New England University in hopes of becoming a history teacher and a high school football coach, while continuing his athletic career. After a season playing lacrosse at Western New England, he transferred to Hudson Valley Community College and obtained an associate’s degree in independent studies. He would go on to finish his collegiate career at SUNY Brockport, where he graduated in 2008 with a bachelor’s degree in history. After a decade-long career in sales and finance, he signed up for the Dan Patrick School of Sportscasting at Full Sale University. After graduating as valedictorian in 2021, he signed on as a full-time multimedia journalist and field reporter at a CBS affiliate in Watertown.
Q: How would you describe your experiences at South Colonie?
A: My time at South Colonie helped shape what it was to be a person and professional. I have lifelong friends that I still see and speak with today. My time spent as a Raider taught me the pillars and principles needed to be successful as a sportscaster and as a human being.
Q: What teacher made the most impact on you as a student-athlete?
A: Coach Mike Ambrosio. From freshmen lacrosse to senior year playing varsity football, Coach Ambro was a part of my daily life. He helped teach me what it was to be a Colonie Raider. I was extremely humbled to be able to be a part of his field naming and dedication ceremonies. It was an honor to be able to be a part of the coaching staff over the last four seasons.
Q: How did you know it was time to “reset” your professional goals?
A: I wanted to wake up every day and enjoy going to work. There are lots of people who go to work and hate what they do. I was one of them for a long time, and didn’t want that to be the case anymore. I wake up now excited to get to the station. Every day is something new and different and challenging. I’m eager to see where my journey is going to go from here.
Q: What would you recommend to today’s graduating seniors as they enter the real world?
A: “You can’t stop people from trying to limit your dreams, but you can stop it from becoming a reality. Your dreams are up to you. I encourage you to always be curious, always seek out things you love and always work hard once you find it.” – Kobe Bryant
Q: Finally, what was your favorite memory at South Colonie?
A: The time spent on the field and in the locker room. There isn’t one specific memory that I can think of, but I miss the time spent with the team during double sessions, and practices. Some of the littlest things are what stay with you the longest.
The above was compiled by the South Colonie School District. If you would like to see someone featured in Five Questions contact Jim Franco at [email protected] or 518-878-1000
