BARNESVILLE — One of the area’s top multi-sport athletes has decided which path he’s going to pursue at the college level.

Barnesville senior Ayden Hannahs recently decided to continue his academic and baseball careers at Muskingum University.

“Their baseball program is very solid and I feel like I can go and contribute (to the team) at a high level as well as excel in the classroom,” Hannahs said.

Like so many senior baseball players, Hannahs is trying to make up for lost time. Working to make the most out of this season after the 2020 campaign was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I’ve learned so many things through my high school career, but the biggest thing is to not take anything for granted,” Hannahs explained. “Things can be taken away at the snap of a finger, so you have to make the most of every moment.”

Thus far, Hannahs has been a key cog for the Shamrocks, batting in the lead-off spot and serving as their ace on the mound.

He’s currently hitting at a .469 clip with 23 hits. He’s scored 19 runs and driven in 12 more. He has also drawn 11 base on balls and stolen six bases, showing himself to be the consummate lead-off hitter.

Despite his impressive numbers at the dish, Hannahs knows that he has to continue to make strides if he hopes to contribute for the Muskies as soon as next spring.

“I need to continue to work on my strength and approach at the plate,” Hannahs said. “A strong body will always allow you do so many things in the game of baseball, but you need to have a well-planned approach at the plate in order to do something with it.”

On the mound, Hannahs has been solid. He’s 2-1 on the season with an impressive 2.36 earned run average in more than 26 innings of work. When Hannahs isn’t on the mound, he’s one of the area’s premier centerfielders.

At Muskingum, Hannahs is expected to play the outfield.

“I feel like I’ll fit in very well (at Muskingum),” Hannahs said. “Coach (Gregg) Thompson knows what he’s doing and I feel like I can make great strides on the mental side of the game with him as my coach.”

As a sophomore, Hannahs earned numerous post-season accolades, including First Team All-Eastern District and he was named an EOBL All-Star.

Along with his baseball accomplishments, Hannahs was a multiple-year starter in football, earning All-Eastern District and All-Ohio mentions, as a quarterback. He was a multiple-year start in basketball before transitioning to wrestling as a senior.

A standout in the classroom as well, Hannahs is a member of ‘Varsity B,’ Key Club and Art Club and has been listed on the honor roll.

Ayden, who is the son of Lance and Ashley Hannahs, plans to major in education and minor in coaching.