Perfect 'Theun'
Twelve-year-old Nate Theunissen stood in the newly constructed stadium named in honor of his grandfather.
Surrounded by the people who came to witness the historic day in 2002, Nate knew at that moment he was going to play on that same field.
Mike Theunissen, the redshirt freshman's father, brought him to CMU baseball games at the original Theunissen Stadium, which was located near where the Health Professions Building now stands.
The original stadium was named in Bill Theunissen's honor in 1986. Mike always hoped his son could carry on the legacy.
"I grew up with CMU baseball," Mike Theunissen said. "I remember going on road trips with my father when he coached there. And now I have great pride in that Nate decided to go there."
Bill Theunissen played for the CMU in 1946 before coaching the team from 1953-1962. He also spent time as the dean of the School of Health, Physical Education and Recreation.
At the time, the baseball still competed at Alumni Field. The new stadium opened in 2002 and retained the Theunissen name.
A destiny
Nate Theunissen grew up near the place he would play. He attended close-by Mount Pleasant High School and played first base.
"As a kid, Nate knew that his name was on the side of the stadium because of his grandfather," Mike Theunissen said. "Now his grandfather is so proud of him and everything he has accomplished."
Mike Theunissen, also a first baseman, joined the CMU baseball program in 1973. He played on the first CMU team to compete in the Mid-American Conference. Mike's brother Chris also played for CMU from 1975-77.
"We are baseball oriented to say the least," Bill Theunissen said. "We haven't missed many games over the years."
Nate had opportunity to play at Theunissen Stadium for the first time during summer ball as a member of the 2006 Central Michigan High School All Stars. He also played there in the 2007 state semifinals for MPHS on his way toward a state championship.
"CMU baseball means a lot to my family," Nate Theunissen said. "I have been watching it for my entire life. Ever since I was a little kid I wanted to play here. It was a dream to come here."
That dream became a reality on March 18, when Nate Theunissen was introduced in front of the home crowd as the starting designated hitter.
Mike Theunissen attended that game and felt pleased his son had made it to this level.
"It was tremendously satisfying to see him on the field," Mike said. "He has worked so hard and put so many hours into perfecting his game, and it is paying off right now."
Nate has started 33 of CMU's 36 games, and his six home runs and 35 RBIs lead the team. His .326 average ranks third.
Leaders
Nate also comes from a line of coaches. His grandfather coached for many years at CMU and his father coaches at Mount Pleasant High School.
"Nate got me back into coaching," Mike Theunissen said. "I am still coaching at Mount Pleasant High School. But I originally was just doing it for him."
Nate is not interested in coaching on a professional level. However, he said he's not ruling it out. "I would definitely get into coaching for my son or daughter's team if the opportunity came up," he said.
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