NRHEG’s Phillips commits to Div. 1 SDSU

He may only be a junior, but Andrew Phillips is already turning heads with his baseball performance.

The standout from NRHEG made his official verbal commitment to South Dakota State University’s (SDSU) baseball program, which is Division 1, last week shortly after receiving an offer from the team.

Phillips made his dreams a reality after he received a phone call from SDSU’s coaching staff letting him know that the school was offering him an athletic scholarship.

“When I committed I was actually at a baseball field. I called the coaches back and told them that I accepted. Then I called my dad and he actually started tearing up on the phone. I’ll never forget that moment,” said Phillips.

Phillips’ commitment to the Jackrabbits was one that the Panthers’ centerfielder had long hoped for as SDSU sat atop his list of schools he was hoping to play for after he graduates next year.

“It feels awesome. I don’t know if it’s actually sunk in yet or not that I’m committed there, but it feels pretty good. Everyone around town has been so happy and supportive. I mean all the little kids are coming up to me and they’re all excited, and it’s just awesome to tell them that if they work hard they could be in this same spot one day,” said Phillips.

Phillips has not yet been informed of his assignments for SDSU; however, he will continue to play for his school and club teams over the course of the next year before becoming a Jackrabbit in the fall of 2023.

As a rangy centerfielder with a left-handed swing at the plate, Phillips will bring his speed and athleticism to the field for the Jackrabbits and hopes to contribute to his new team as fast as he can.

“I’m going to give 100% from now until I get there, and then especially for my whole career as a Jackrabbit. I’m just going to try and be the best player that I can be and do everything I can to succeed out there.”