La Vernia outfielder signs with military institute

La Vernia Bear baseball standout Colton Kruse signs his letter of intent June 4 to attend Marion Military Institute in Alabama. Seated at the table with Kruse were his mother, Teri; brother, Lance; and father, Clayton. Also present were coaches (from left) Cedric Harris, Bo Robinson, John Elder, Jake Wells, and La Vernia High School Principal Cheryl Barron.

Robert C. McDonald
Wilson County News
June 10, 2008

LA VERNIA — Just days before receiving his high school diploma, recent La Vernia graduate Colton Kruse had another reason to celebrate. The talented athlete was busy signing his letter of intent to attend school and play baseball for Marion Military Institute (MMI) in Alabama.

After considering a number of schools, including Texas Lutheran University, Sam Houston State University, and the University of Texas at San Antonio, Kruse eventually decided on MMI.

“It’s been a dream of mine to play baseball in college,” Kruse said. “MMI really came through for me.”

According to Kruse, the relationship with MMI began when the school’s recruiters were at a La Vernia baseball game, scouting a player from the other team. It was at that time they took notice of Kruse’s talent. They later approached Kruse and began discussing scholarship options.

“We’re excited to have Colton,” said MMI baseball Coach Jake Wells. “He’s a great player.”

La Vernia High School baseball Coach John Elder was also on hand for the signing. He praised Kruse as well, saying, “He is a good leader and has a strong work ethic.”

Kruse credited his team, coaches, and parents for helping him achieve his goals. When asked about any one game or moment from his senior season, Kruse said the whole season was a highlight. He said he would never forget the way his team and coaches all came together.

At this time, Kruse is uncertain what he will focus his major coursework on at school. He is also uncertain if attending a military academy will lead to a military career, but he isn’t ruling anything out at this time.

When asked how he felt about attending a military academy, Kruse simply said he was excited. He’s not worried about the extra demands a military school will put on him.

As for Kruse’s parents, they aren’t worried either. In fact, his mother, Teri, said she liked the fact that he’s going to a military school.

“Since he’s going so far away, I think it’s a good thing,” she said. “The added structure will help with the adjustment.

“He’s a good kid,” she added. “He’ll do great.”