Ben Reel Named Head Baseball Coach At IU Southeast
Ben Reel Named Head Baseball Coach At IU Southeast
Indiana University Southeast announced today that Ben Reel will serve as the newest head baseball coach at the University.
Reel succeeds Josh Schultz, who resigned from IU Southeast in June to become an assistant baseball coach at IPFW in Fort Wayne, Indiana.
One of the youngest head coaches in college baseball at age 24, Reel is grateful for the opportunity to coach at his alma mater. "It is truly an honor for me to be named head coach here at IU Southeast. It is one of the best feelings I have ever had," said Reel. "Very few coaches get an opportunity to coach where they played. I am going to embrace this situation."
Coach Reel served two years as an assistant coach under Schultz for the IU Southeast baseball program prior to taking over the team. During that time, Reel was responsible for catchers and hitters, while also assisting in recruiting efforts.
Athletic Director Pat Mrozowski believes that Reel is a great fit for the program. "We are excited about adding Ben to the staff. As our assistant coach, Ben was a vital part of a very good program," said Mrozowski. "I am sure he will build upon the solid foundation and lead our team to success both on and off the field."
In spring 2006, Reel was the starting catcher and team captain for the IU Southeast baseball squad that finished 30-26 overall and as KIAC Runner-Up. On the field, he hit .347 with 37 RBIs and a team-leading 19 doubles en route to earning KIAC First Team honors.
Reel also excelled with his academics. For his strong performance in the classroom, he received the KIAC Scholar Athlete Award and was named a NAIA All-American Scholar Athlete. While still competing on the field and completing his eligibility, Reel also served as recruiting coordinator for the program through an internship opportunity.
"I am closely connected to this baseball program as a former player, assistant coach, recruiting coordinator and now head coach. I know how our guys feel and what they are going through in the classroom and on the field," said Reel. "I will be there to guide them and keep the program heading in the right direction."
In the summer of 2006, Reel spent time traveling Europe representing the United States of America playing for Team USA. Prior to his time at IU Southeast, Reel played two seasons at Cleveland State (Tenn.) Community College under Coach Mike Policastro.
Reel was a three-year starting catcher at South Dearborn High School, earning EIAC All-Conference First Team and All-Region Honors. He was also a member of the American Legion Region VII Championship team.
Reel, a graduate of South Dearborn High School, received his bachelor degree in general studies from IU Southeast in 2007.
Coach Reel is optimistic about the upcoming season, "Our guys are going to work hard and we are going to pick up right where we left off last season. Through dedicated work and focused preparation we are going to excel."
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For Further Information Please Contact:
Joe Glover, Sports Information Director
Mobile: 502-468-5190
Office: 812-941-2028
joglover@indiana.edu
www.ius.edu/athletics