Played for two years at Concordia University in St. Paul, MN, where he won academic honors both seasons. Hit .311 as a junior in 31 games, .244 as a senior in 37 games with one home run and 17 RBIs. Transferred from Rochester Community and Technical College, where he hit .345 with six home runs, 44 RBIs, and 14 stolen bases for the Yellow Jackets in 2010. Originally a pitcher at North Park University, appearing in three games and 4 1/3 innings with four strikeouts and no walks. Won two baseball letters at John Marshall High School and was team captain his senior season, leading the Rockets to a State Tournament appearance.