Niles senior Taylor Campbell signed a National Letter of Intent to play baseball at Walsh Univrsity. From left: Kevin and Jennifer Johnson, Taylor, and Troy and Wendy Campbell. (Daily Star Photo/AMELIO RODRIGUEZ)

Niles senior Taylor Campbell has signed his National Letter of Intent to continue his baseball career at Walsh University in North Canton, Ohio.

Campbell, a third baseman and pitcher for the Vikings, believes he is a good fit for the Cavaliers.

“I thought the possibility for playing time right away excited me, and the fact that they are joining the GLIAC (Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference) which is Division II, and a good conference for baseball is exciting too,” claimed an obviously thrilled Campbell. “I really liked my visit to the campus and just thought it was a great fit for me.”

Campbell helped Niles to a District title in 2011 and has provided tremendous senior leadership this year for the Vikings as well.

“He’s an unbelievable kid,” said Niles coach Mike Vota. “He carries charisma; he’s a leader, good academically. He is just a good quality individual and the type of person that you want good quality kids to be around because he is going to lead them in a positive way on and off the field.”

In a game that is measured by statistics and box scores, it’s beyond the numbers where Campbell shines the most for the Vikings.

“Taylor will do everything you want him to do,” continued Vota. “His numbers (statistics) are immaterial because what he brings to the team goes beyond any number that he can give you. He is going to go out there and compete every game, and he’s been phenomenal. “

The Cavaliers have a 28-24 record this season playing in the American Mideast Conference. Next year they will play in the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (GLIAC), which will include the likes of Grand Valley State, Ferris State, Hillsdale, Wayne State and Saginaw Valley, which will all help Campbell to feel a little closer to home.