College of Education and Human Services students help lead Racers to College World Series
By Jillian Smith | Aug 4, 2025
MURRAY, Ky. – The Murray State Baseball team made history during the 2024–2025 season with its first-ever appearance in the College World Series, and three students from the Murray State University College of Education and Human Services were right there on the field, helping lead the way:
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Luke Mistone, a junior infielder and health and physical education major from Upland, California.
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Matthew Parenteau, a graduate right-handed pitcher and human development and leadership major from Carmel, Indiana.
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Will Vierling, a junior catcher and criminal justice major from Mequon, Wisconsin.
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Vierling said there’s no way to describe the experience of playing in the College World Series.
“Our run is every player's dream, but even more meaningful is the fact that we did this together as a team,” Vierling said. “Coaches, players — we are all so close. I can’t imagine this run with anyone else. This experience will bind us for years to come.”
Besides his work as an athlete, Vierling said he is first a student — and balancing the demands of Division I athletics with coursework isn’t easy.
“My love for baseball makes the athlete effort a no-brainer,” Vierling said. “In the classroom, my interest is in criminal justice, and understanding, flexible and excellent professors make all the difference.”
Vierling enrolled in a few criminal justice courses in high school and said the subject has always interested him.
“As a student-athlete, I felt it was important to make sure that in the classroom I could succeed,” he said. “Success comes from something you find enjoyable.”
With all his success at Murray State, Vierling was selected by the Philadelphia Phillies in the 11th round of the 2025 Major League Baseball Draft.
Vierling said playing for the Racers has enhanced his life both as an athlete and an individual.
“I am grateful to Murray State University, our athletic department, coaches and fans for the opportunity to play for the Racers,” he said.
To learn more about the criminal justice program, visit