While most seniors know where they’ll go next year, senior Patrick Bordewick must begin a new search following the loss of the University of North Dakota’s baseball program.

The University of North Dakota (UND) announced April 12 that its baseball program was going to be cut because of budget restructuring, according to UND athletic director Brian Faison.

According to Bordewick, his leadership and success as  shortstop on the Park varsity baseball team brought him to the doorstep of UND in early December 2015, where he committed to play Division I baseball.

Bordewick said he looked forward to the experience he would have participating in the baseball program.

“Seeing the campus first hand and meeting the team and coaches, I saw something I could be a part of in the future, and I loved it,” Bordewick said.

Park varsity baseball coach Brian Kelly said the loss of UND’s baseball team will affect more than just Bordewick.

“It’s super sad. It’s not only affecting Pat and other recruits, but it also is affecting the 30-plus players who are already in the program,” Kelly said. “Those players will flood the recruiting market, and that will make it even harder for other high school players to get offers.”

Kelly said he is pleased with Bordewick’s attitude following the situation, and feels confident he has the help he needs to find another place to play Division I baseball.

“Pat hasn’t pouted. I was texting him the night he heard the news. He’s been working his tail off to stay focused on our season, but also find a place to play,” Kelly said. “We’re very fortunate to have Aaron McEachran (head instructor of the MacStrength hitting facility). He is very well connected in the college and junior baseball community.”

Bordewick’s teammate, senior Conor Klaers, said he feels very hopeful for his teammate, and believes Bordewick’s skill and drive can take him to the next level.

“I think wherever he plays, he’ll do really well,” Klaers said. “Knowing Pat I think it’ll be a temporary setback, but however far he wants to go in baseball, I think he’ll be good to go.”

Although his future in baseball is unclear, Bordewick feels optimistic as he continues his search for a place to play.

“I have to weigh my options in the quickest time that I can, but with enough people looking out for me I think I’ll be alright,” Bordewick said. “Maybe it’s one of those things where one door closes and others can open — a blessing in disguise.”