Recently, Charlestown baseball’s Andrew Varble was joined by family, coaches, friends, and teammates to witness and him signing his celebratory letter of intent to attend school and play baseball at Indiana University-Columbus next fall. Pictured is Varble with his parents David and Stephanie Varble, CHS Assistant Coach Matt French, CHS Baseball Head Coach Brian Hester, and CHS Assistant Coach Collin Rauck.

IUC is surrounded by the architectural beauty of Columbus, Indiana on a fifteen acre campus. The school of just over a thousand embraces collaborative ways of thinking that attract exceptional students and faculty for ten Bachelor’s Degree programs and three Master’s Degree programs.

The Indiana University – Columbus (IUPUC, known as the Crimson Pride, competes in four intercollegiate varsity sports in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA), primarily as a member of the River States Conference (RSC) as of this school year. Men’s sports include baseball, cross country, and soccer; while women’s sports include cross country, soccer, softball, and volleyball.

Varble told WPMQ when asked about his choice to attend school, major in nursing, and play baseball there, “I chose IU Columbus because I know it’s a place that will help shape my future both academically and athletically. The confidence the coaching staff has in me meant a lot, and the support from my family made the choice even clearer. I really connected with the campus and the coaches made it feel like a program where I can grow and be challenged. I’m grateful for everyone who has been a part of my journey so far, and I believe IU Columbus will give me that same family atmosphere. I’m excited for what’s ahead and ready to make my loved ones proud. ”

Charlestown baseball head coach Brian Hester shared his sentiments on Varble’s decision and said, “The Charlestown High School Baseball program congratulates Andrew Varble on his commitment to continue his academic and athletic career at Indiana University Columbus! Although new to our program, we’re proud to celebrate this exciting achievement with him and his family. Wishing Andrew all the best as he takes this next step in his baseball journey!”

Varble made the tough decision to transfer to Charlestown from Southwestern (Hanover) this school year due to family circumstances. Southwestern Coach Dan Thurston was in attendance for the signing and had well wishes for Varble he shared. ” I am extremely happy for Andrew Varble and his opportunity to play at the next level. Andrew led us in on base percentage and was second in batting average, doubles, and RBI’s. He played a quality defensive outfield and was our back-up catcher. One thing is for certain, Andrew will work extremely hard to be successful on the diamond and in the classroom. We sure wish we had him back at Southwestern, but wish him nothing but success at Charlestown and at IUC.”

WPMQ, The Pirate Network congratulates Andrew and wishes him a healthy and prosperous future at Indiana University-Columbus.

Photo contributed by WPMQ, The Pirate Network staff member Boomer Hester.