JORDAN DARNELL HEADED FOR ELON BASEBALL TEAM

Through his emotional play on the basketball court and baseball field, Jordan Darnell has become one of the “faces” of Ardrey Kell High School.  The tall, lanky six foot, four inch dual sport athlete became the first known male Ardrey Kell athlete to make a commitment to a college.  On August 7th, Jordan committed to the Elon University Baseball program.
Jordan chose Elon over UNC Wilmington and Appalachian State.

“I really liked what Elon had to offer,” said Jordan. “It’s a good school with good academics and I believe I can do well there.”

Following his senior year at Ardrey Kell, Jordan will travel to Elon and begin his college career as both a pitcher and a first baseman.  With a 91 mile an hour fastball and a strong bat, Jordan should be able to accomplish his goals. 

Jordan has had a very successful last 12 months of baseball.  He led the Ardrey Kell Knights pitching staff and was among the top three hitters on the team.  The Knights qualified for the North Carolina State playoffs in just their first year of play.  Jordan also competed for the On Deck O’s Showcase Baseball Team.  The O’s have traveled across the southeast playing against some of the best teams in the country.  The experience has made Jordan a better pitcher and allowed him to test his game against some of the best young hitters in the country.

“This last year has been a lot of fun.  We surprised a lot of people this spring by making the state playoffs.  At On Deck, I had the chance to pitch in front of a lot of baseball scouts and play with a great group of guys.”

As mentioned above, Jordan also excels in basketball for Ardrey Kell.  Often matched up against players 4-6 inches taller, he brings toughness, a determined spirit and a never give up attitude to the team.  Jordan enjoys playing for Ardrey Kell basketball coach Mike Craft.

“We are only going to get better in basketball. Our team will be more experienced this year and we all believe in Coach Craft’s system.  I am looking forward to my senior year of basketball.”

Once basketball season is complete, Jordan will hit the field for Ardrey Kell baseball coach Hal Bagwell.  The Knights will be expected by many observers to contend for a conference title this year and advance further in the state playoffs. Jordan intends to give his all to help the team advance.

Coach Bagwell is very appreciative of what Jordan brings to the team.

“Jordan is a high character kid with an extremely bright future. He is the most competitive player I have ever coached and is respected and admired by his teammates and coaching staff!”

Somewhere between all the practices and games this year, Jordan will find time to complete all of his homework and study for exams.  After three years of high school, he holds an impressive 3.5 GPA.    During the recruiting process, the academic success came into play as college coaches are always looking to sign athletes that are successful in the classroom and on the field of play.

The South Charlotte Sports Report sends out our congratulations to Jordan on his commitment to Elon.  The Phoenix has landed a very well rounded student-athlete.