(Crookston, Minn.)- The University of Minnesota, Crookston Baseball team opens the 2012 season on Monday, February 20 with a non-conference doubleheader against Valley City State University (VCSU) at the Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome. First pitch is scheduled for 12:15 p.m.

The Golden Eagles have been practicing since January 10. Head Coach Chris Vito is eager to get the season underway. “The players have been working incredibly hard and are ready to see some real action,” says Coach Vito. “The attitudes and work ethic have been great. Our numbers are up significantly from a year ago. We return a solid group and have added some talented newcomers. It is going to be exciting to see where we match-up.”

Josh Brehmer (So, IF, Roseville, Minn.) hit .389 (21 for 54) in an injury plagued season. He is healthy and ready to go. Nick Kelzer (So, RHP, Delano, Minn.) lead the team in innings pitched with 49.1.

Golden Eagles vs. Valley City State University          Monday, February 20        12:15 p.m.

It will be the season opener for the Vikings as well. Josh Evans returns and hit .375 (42 for 112). Preston Jenson hit .385 (30 for 78). Taylor Nelson returns on the mound and was 5-2 last season with a 4.78 earned run average.

For more information, visit the Golden Eagle Athletics Web site at www.goldeneaglesports.com.

Follow the Golden Eagles on Facebook at Golden Eagle Sports and on Twitter at @UMCAthletics.

The University of Minnesota, Crookston is an NCAA Division II Institution and a member of the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC). The Golden Eagle Equestrian team is a member of the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA).
    
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