On April 10, 2024, Brennen Jones joined teammate Hunter Rauhaus by committing to Beloit College to continue their academic and baseball careers together.
Rauhuas committed first back in the fall, and Jones recently committed to Beloit, joining the baseball roster for the Division III college.
“I couldn’t be more thrilled to commit to Beloit College alongside my high school teammate. Having them commit before me really solidified my decision,” said Jones.
The two are excited to play together for another four years.
“I think it’ll be fun since we played together for years at Jones and I think we’ll have a good connection continuing that into college,” said Jones.
The community at Beloit influenced the two baseball players in their decision to join the team.
“I chose Beloit because I loved the coaches and players who both gave me a very welcoming environment,” said Rauhaus.
The support from the coaches made them feel like they were gaining not just coaches, but gaining a family that would support them on and off the field.
“The main thing was the coaches because they are not just there as my baseball coach but also to help me grow as a person off the field,” said Rauhaus.
The two have exhibited a strong impact on the Jones baseball team during their practices, games, trips, and hangouts.
“I mean, they’re both great leaders… and they’re both going to go to college for baseball,” said teammate Sebastian De Wiljkerslooth. “But they also do a really great job of just leading the team, helping people out, learning the game, and helping people out when they’re struggling.”
The chemistry between the two is remarkable both on and off the field.Jones and Rauhaus have been seen working together to tackle anything in their way.
“I think it will translate for sure. Those two are both really good friends,” said De Wiljkerslooth “You see it at practice, or just even in school in general. They’re good friends, they have good chemistry together as friends and teammates as well.”
The rest of the team has high hopes for their teammates as they carry their baseball careers on for another four years together.
“Both of them are gonna have a really big impact at Beloit for sure,” said De Wiljkerslooth.
The two believe their connection and history playing together will greatly benefit their college team.
“I think it’ll add some chemistry from both of us. And you know, like, like, help us build a stronger connection with the team to perfect,” said Rauhaus.
The pair’s accomplishments have motivated the other members of their high school team.
“Seeing what other kids can accomplish makes me inspired to be as good as them,” said teammate, Micheal Hattel ‘25.
Their presence on the team will be deeply missed when they leave for Beloit.
“They bring really good energy and it will be a task to fill the hole when they leave next year, due to their leadership and skill set,” said Hattel.
The two plan to continue growing their friendship in the next four years. The opportunity in front of them allows for them to further develop their collaborative style.
“We’ve been through so much together on and off the field, and now we get to continue our journey at the collegiate level,” said Jones. “Can’t wait to see what the future holds for us as teammates once again!”