Andre Beltran is an ASU Cronkite School of Journalism student assigned to cover Hamilton High School for AZPreps365.com

A Sun Devil since birth, Michael Brueser always knew he would one day wear the maroon and gold.

Brueser, a Chandler native, has known from a young age that remaining home in Arizona is where he belongs.

“I have always been a Sun Devil fan,” said the Hamilton star. “Both parents went to ASU and I have always loved the program and tradition.”

Family has always played an important role throughout Brueser’s baseball career and a big part in why he chose to play baseball at Hamilton.

“My brother played at Hamilton for four years and I grew up around it.”

Going into his senior year, Brueser is looking forward to dominating the diamond one last time with his teammates. He finished last season with 12 home runs, 36 RBI’s and a .314 average.

One of only a couple players to start all four years on varsity for the Huskies, Brueser has developed many lifelong relationships with his coaches and teammates throughout the years, which is why this season is so important for him to finish strong.

“It’s the last time I’ll ever get to play with my hometown friends so it’s going to mean a lot to go out and win another state championship and end everything on a good note.”

One person who has been important to Brueser during his time at Hamilton is childhood friend and current teammate Tyler Wilson.

“We work out and hit together and always push each other to be better in everything we do,” Brueser said.

Having one of his best friends on his team has always been very important for Brueser because they are always there for one another.

“We’re all jokes off the field but when we get on the field, it’s all business,” said Brueser.

These types of relationships are the reason for the program’s success over the last couple of decades and it’s all thanks to the tradition built by longtime head coach Mike Woods.

Woods has played a key role in developing many top-class players, his coaching methods and relationships he builds with his players is a big reason Brueser chose Hamilton.

 “Yeah, coach Woods is one of the greatest coaches I have ever had to play baseball for, and a lot of guys come back from college and pro ball and man you guys are lucky with coach Woods.”

That guidance he has received is a big reason why Brueser will be playing at the next level but will miss his time as a Husky.

“Playing with my friends that I’ve known my whole life, our former big-league coaches and always having a target on our back is what I will miss the most.”

Woods said Brueser has a good chance of being drafted this year, but Brueser plans on honoring his commitment to the Sun Devils.

Even though playing at the next level is in Brueser’s near future, he’s still focused on the season ahead.

 “Keeping my body healthy, work hard every day and handle adversity is what I expect from myself every day.”

His senior season begins this Thursday against Desert Mountain.