Loran Freeman Memorial- Jackson Blaesing, University of Nebraska

Jackson Blaesing was recently awarded the Loran Freeman Memorial Scholarship at 3&2 for 2023. The Loran Freeman Memorial Scholarship was established in 1997 as a memorial to Loran Charles Freeman, a longtime supporter and participant in the 3&2 baseball program. This scholarship exists as the result of the efforts of Loran’s many friends, acquaintances and business associates as well as family members. Loran's commitment to the youth of this area was exemplified by the sponsoring and coaching that he did for various sports teams. As a member of the 3&2 Baseball Club, he was a sincere and inspirational leader of baseball teams for sixteen years.

More on Jackson-

Jackson is from Shawnee, KS and grew up playing at 3&2 since the age of 7. In High School, Jackson played spring high school ball with the St. James Thunder and summer with the Team KC Scout Team and many years with Building Champions, traveling the country showcasing and soaking up baseball experiences from Arizona to Indiana to Georgia and points in between.

Just as Jackson grew as a player, he also paralleled that growth as an official with us here at 3&2. When Jackson wasn’t practicing, training, or studying, he was calling our assignors wanting to work and be out on the baseball field at any level of play whenever time allowed. Jackson is continuing his academic career at the University of Nebraska.

Garrett Warhurst Memorial- Grant Rutkowski, University of Kansas

Grant Rutkowski was recently named the winner of the 2023 Garrett Warhurst Memorial Scholarship. The Garrett Warhurst Memorial Scholarship was established in 2011 as a memorial to Garrett Warhurst, a champion of baseball and participant in the 3&2 baseball program. Its purpose is to offer a scholarship that provides financial assistance to qualified, graduating high school seniors. This scholarship exists as the result of the Warhurst’s many family members, friends and acquaintances contributions.

More on Grant:

Grant is from Shawnee, KS and graduated from Mill Valley High School, where he was a two-time Pitcher of the Year winner for the Jags baseball team and an All State football player as a defensive end, winning 3 consecutive State titles. Grant has worked at 3&2 on the grounds crew, concessions, and as a umpire. He also prepared the fields for our t-ball program at Stump Park, Gum Springs and Freedom Fields every Saturday morning during the spring/summer season for the last 5 years. He is currently attending the University of Kansas studying business.

Robert Heidenburg “Sweet Ol’ Bob” Umpire Scholarship – Landon Alexander, Missouri S&T

Landon Alexander was recently named the Robert Heidenburg Umpire Scholarship award winner for 2023. The Robert Heidenburg Umpire Scholarship was established in 2012 for graduating seniors who currently umpire in the 3&2 program. Mr. Heidenburg was a long-time umpire and umpire supervisor at 3&2 dating back to the 1970’s

More on Landon:

Landon is from Lenexa, KS and graduated from Olathe Northwest High School. He is currently attending Missouri S&T studying engineering. Landon both played ball at a high level in high school and umpired many years with us. He plans on continuing in the game at Missouri S&T, where he’ll join his brother who plays there as well. Good luck Landon with your studies and baseball in the coming years.