Before UCM: Was a Second Team All-Iowa Community College Athletic Conference pitcher for coaches Brian Smith and Pedro Hernandez at Southwestern Community College.

In High School: Went 48-1 during his high school career at Martensdale St. Mary’s High School ... was a three-time All-State honoree, a two-time Super Team All-State honoree and earned three All-Conference honors and five letters during his high school playing days ... was the Class 1A and 2A All-State captain in 2011 ... helped his team to five appearances in the Iowa State Tournament, including a pair of State Championships in 2010 and 2011 when the team went a combined 87-0 ... his squad was a state quarterfinalist in 2007, semifinalist in 2008, state runner-up in 2009 before the back-to-back titles ... was selected to the Iowa Senior All-Star Game following his career.

Personal: Turf management major ... son of Steve and Joyce Westphal.