The University of Wisconsin Superior Yellowjackets are set to receive a trio of hometown baseball players. Seniors Austin Edwards, Cam LaPorte, and Jayce Rue all committed to play baseball at the next level.
Edwards committed to pitch for the Jackets, and he also dabbles in some outfield for the Spartans. LaPorte is set to play catcher in college, although he unfortunately will be unable to participate in his senior season after sustaining a knee injury during his hockey season. Rue will play shortstop.
This is an uncommon event in the northland as three athletes from the same high school usually don’t go to the same college and play the same sport very often. The three are very excited for this, as they have been playing together since their youth. The longest is Edwards and Rue who have played together for the last 11 years, and the trio has been playing together for the last eight years.
“It’s an amazing feeling. It’s every kid’s dream to be able to play with some of their best friends, especially in a sport that we all love. I’m super excited to have four more years with them,” said Edwards.
Each of their dads has been the biggest influence on the years they’ve played, as each has helped build an emotional connection to the game through many years of building a certain kind of love for the game.
“My dad put the game in my hands and taught me to play. He’s always been there and has always supported me,” said LaPorte.
The next level of their careers comes with excitement, and Rue can’t wait. The UW-Superior baseball team takes an annual trip down to Florida to experience some better competition.
“I’m most excited for the competition for sure. We get to go to Florida, stop, and scrimmage some really good division one schools, I’m excited for that.” said Rue.
Edward’s favorite memory from high school was their playoff upset victory against No. 3 New Richmond, as that felt like the most meaningful win of his career. Rue and LaPorte both agreed that their favorite memories was when they both hit their first home run in the same game against Hermantown at home. Rue hit his first with LaPorte following the very next inning.
Even without LaPorte, Edwards and Rue are looking forward to finishing their high school careers with the Spartans starting around the end of March. The trio is excited for Spartan support not only this year, but the following four as they stay at home in Superior.
