Regarding his college decision, comfort was key for Ryan Younglas.

While visiting the University of Toledo, the Keystone junior felt right at home.

Younglas announced his commitment to the Rockets on Oct. 7. From the beginning, it felt like a seamless fit.

“When I got on campus, it was a really good feel,” Younglas said. “I bonded really well with all of the coaches and I just felt really comfortable right there in Toledo. The main thing I really cared about was being comfortable and the connection with everyone there.”

Younglas flashed potential as a freshman but made even bigger strides as a sophomore. He was a Division V second-team All-Ohio selection and won LC8 and AA Lorain County Player of the Year honors. He batted .506 with 40 RBI and four home runs.

“They have a really great hitting program,” Younglas said. “I think I would have a good time fitting into their philosophy and in their lineup.”

Although he did most of his damage at the plate, Younglas was just as dominant on the mound with a 6-0 record and 1.87 ERA. Keystone coach Bert Fitzgerald has been around some talented players in his time with the Wildcats and Younglas is shaping up to be among the best.

“He’s just a fantastic ball player. He’s a great kid and a smart kid that gets good grades. He’s a straight arrow, who wouldn’t want him?” Fitzgerald said. “We met him when he was in fifth or sixth grade and he started coming to open gyms. Right away, you could tell he was special. I didn’t think right then he was going to be the next (Brandyn Sittinger) or the next Nathan Archer coming out of our place, but he’s a super hard worker.”

Not even two months into his junior season, Younglas’ mind is made up. He is thrilled to have gone through the recruiting process and now his decision is in the rearview mirror.

“It was really busy,” Younglas said of the recruiting process. “It was a fun adventure. I got to learn a lot of things and it was pretty stressful. It’s been a long ride, a very long two months. My coaches at T3 were really helpful with the guidance and knowledge they have.”

Even before he started popping up at Keystone open gyms, Younglas has wanted to play college baseball. He began playing baseball at six years old and has been passionate about it ever since. His dreams are coming true in real time.

“It’s great. It feels good,” Younglas said. “Ever since I started getting into baseball, I always looked up to my older family members and everyone ahead of me.”

With all of that said, there is unfinished business at Keystone. Younglas has two seasons left with the Wildcats, who are poised to be good again. They finished 22-5 last year with a district final trip.

Simply put, it’s an exciting time for Keystone baseball.

“It’s great. I love Keystone,” Younglas said. “I’ve gone here my entire life and I grew up here. I live and die for it.”