Aldie, Va. — John Champe High School senior catcher Jaden Keuhner has decided to further his academic and athletic careers at Division III Washington and Lee University beginning in the 2020-2021 school year.
“I’ve never had enough of the sport, and I don’t think I ever will,” Keuhner said. “The thing that keeps me motivated is knowing that I play a game that so many people aren’t as fortunate to be able to play.”
[adrotate group=”5″]Drawn to the outdoor centered facilities and weight room, Keuhner felt a sense of belonging at Washington and Lee.
“I chose Washington and Lee because it’s relatively close to home, and provides me with outstanding academic opportunities, it being one of the best liberal arts schools in Virginia,” Keuhner said.
Located in Lexington, Washington and Lee went 8-14 in the Old Dominion Athletic Conference and 14-20 overall last season. Keuhner plans to show his skills and personality both on and off the field when he suits up for the Generals two springs from now.
“I hope to fill the role of a versatile catcher that can be a threat in the lineup driving in runs,” said Keuhner, who plays travel ball for Diamond Elite. “I also think I can add a little spark into the weight room and get everyone going.”
The thing that keeps me motivated is knowing that I play a game that so many people aren’t as fortunate to be able to play.
—Jaden Keuhner
Before he joins the Generals, however, Keuhner has one more season as a Knight. In 2019, Keuhner helped John Champe to a 9-12 finish, including a 6-8 mark in the Potomac District, just a year after finishing 3-16. Keuhner and co. will look to continue their upward trend under the new direction of first-year head coach Scott Van Dusseldorp.
“Playing at John Champe has been more than I could ever ask for,” Keuhner said.
Keuhner has played for John Champe’s varsity program since his freshman year but missed a majority of his junior season due to a broken fifth metacarpal and a sprained MCL. In his final season, he looks forward to being a leader for the team and giving it his all to make up for his absence last season.
“It is a huge relief to finally get this big weight off of my shoulders and finally know where I am going to attend college,” Keuhner said. “Now, I can solely focus on getting better as an athlete and leader in hopes of competing in our new conference in my last year at John Champe.”
