Senior outfielder Thomas DeBrower has helped the eighth-ranked Ankeny baseball team to a 17-10 record.
DeBrower is batting .333 with six doubles, a triple and 15 RBIs. He leads the Hawks with 32 runs scored and 17 stolen bases.
Here is some inside info on DeBrower:
How is the season going thus far?
The season has been great. We have a lot of new faces and some moving parts, but we have been competing very well.
What has been the highlight for you?
The highlight of the season for me so far is either getting two wins against Ankeny Centennial or Waukee Northwest. Our team played well as a unit in those games and showed flashes of what we can do.
Your team has a big week ahead with three doubleheaders that will help decide the CIML Iowa Conference title. How important is it to you for your team to defend its league crown?
It is extremely important for us to take care of business because it can heavily affect seeding for substate.
You are currently tied with Centennial for first place, and the Jaguars reeled off 12 straight wins before losing to Sioux City Heelan on Saturday at the Brent Prange Classic. How surprised are you by their recent surge to the top of the conference standings?
I am not surprised. I know they are a tough team and great competitors.
Your team will play at Centennial in its final conference doubleheader on Thursday. Are you confident that your team can sweep the Jaguars again, since you’ve won the last eight meetings in the series?
Centennial is an extremely talented team. I am always excited to compete with them. I am confident in our team because of the work we put in every day.
Your team has played some of the best teams in Class 4A this season, including No. 1 Johnston, No. 3 Dowling Catholic and defending state champion Pleasant Valley. Who is the best pitcher that you have faced?
We have seen many good pitchers this year. I think Anthony Watts (of Northwest) is the best we have seen this year.
Your team has been placed in the same substate with another top-10 team in No. 6 Urbandale. What did you think of your team’s draw?
I like our draw. We can compete with Urbandale, and this substate gives us a good shot to get to state.
What will be the keys for your team to advance to the state tournament for the fourth straight year?
I think it’s important for us to play routine defense, and for us to compete in every at-bat regardless of the situation. We have the talent, and it’s time for us to show what we can do.
How badly would you like another chance to face Johnston, which has defeated your team at state in each of the previous three years?
I would love the opportunity to compete with a talented team like that. I think we can give them a run for their money if we continue to improve like we have been.
You have signed a letter of intent to play next year at St. Ambrose. What did you like about the school?
I loved the feel of the school. I went on a couple visits, but when visiting St. Ambrose I felt at home. My mom and dad went to St. Ambrose, and my dad was a pitcher for the baseball team as well. I think it is a cool opportunity for me to get a great education, play good baseball, and continue my dad’s legacy.
Your former teammate, Colin Riggs, is a freshman on the Bees’ roster. What has he told you about the program and the school?
I haven’t gotten the chance to talk to Colin, but on my visit I met a lot of the baseball players and I really liked the way they compete. I think it’s a place that will challenge me and lead me to a path of success.