From coast to coast
Baseball players from across state lines make new nest at Kirkwood
Ali Carlson
Issue date: 4/30/09 Section: Sports
Almost 6,744 miles have been traveled from hometowns to the baseball field at Kirkwood Community College. Athletes on the team said they came for two main reasons: Academics and to play the one game they love.
Though some said it was a hard transition, they have been able to discover who they are as individuals, students and athletes while living on their own here in Iowa.
"The advantages of traveling all the way from Scottsdale, Ariz. to Iowa is that I am now on my own and take responsibility," said Colby Eaton, first base. Eaton said that not being able to head home for a day or weekend at the drop of a hat has helped him learn many new things. He added he has battled through some personal issues but being part of the team and playing the game he loves is what has kept his head up during the tough situations.
"The guys that have come from out of state have really adjusted to the weather and life here in Iowa," stated Assistant Coach Casey Pauli.
Though it's tough being away from home, family and friends, the love of the game is what is said to have kept most of the guys on the field. "Kirkwood has a winning tradition and Coach really cares about each of the players, whether on or off of the field," said Andrew Farrell, outfield.
"I came here to play baseball. Now I can say of those that I have played with that I have teammates for a season and brothers for a lifetime," said Brandon Buelow, outfield.
The baseball team has earned their position on the national rankings now being at listed at No. 15.
"It's good to intertwine the different backgrounds. It has benefitted from them and have come closer together during the season," said Brett Rettenmeier, short stop.
Though coming from different locations it may seem as though they are playing the same game. "Wherever you come from you come with a different style of play. With each style it has added to the team's way of playing the game," added Rettenmeier.
Those players from out of state have added over 75 runs and 60 RBIs to the Eagles record book so far this season.
The Eagles will play at home vs. Southwestern on May 2 at 1 p.m.
Though some said it was a hard transition, they have been able to discover who they are as individuals, students and athletes while living on their own here in Iowa.
"The advantages of traveling all the way from Scottsdale, Ariz. to Iowa is that I am now on my own and take responsibility," said Colby Eaton, first base. Eaton said that not being able to head home for a day or weekend at the drop of a hat has helped him learn many new things. He added he has battled through some personal issues but being part of the team and playing the game he loves is what has kept his head up during the tough situations.
"The guys that have come from out of state have really adjusted to the weather and life here in Iowa," stated Assistant Coach Casey Pauli.
Though it's tough being away from home, family and friends, the love of the game is what is said to have kept most of the guys on the field. "Kirkwood has a winning tradition and Coach really cares about each of the players, whether on or off of the field," said Andrew Farrell, outfield.
"I came here to play baseball. Now I can say of those that I have played with that I have teammates for a season and brothers for a lifetime," said Brandon Buelow, outfield.
The baseball team has earned their position on the national rankings now being at listed at No. 15.
"It's good to intertwine the different backgrounds. It has benefitted from them and have come closer together during the season," said Brett Rettenmeier, short stop.
Though coming from different locations it may seem as though they are playing the same game. "Wherever you come from you come with a different style of play. With each style it has added to the team's way of playing the game," added Rettenmeier.
Those players from out of state have added over 75 runs and 60 RBIs to the Eagles record book so far this season.
The Eagles will play at home vs. Southwestern on May 2 at 1 p.m.
Viewing Comments 1 - 1 of 1
Kevin Laughrun
posted 6/11/09 @ 11:54 AM CST
Go Colby! I am proud of you, man. Do your thing and be the absolute best you can be; with baseball, and all else that life has to offer.
Love,
Uncle Kevin
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