About Austen
Austen DeRuiter has been playing softball in Marshalltown for the past 19 years, and the game has been a major part of his life for nearly as long as he can remember. What started as a love for playing has grown into a passion for giving back to the sport and community that have given so much to him over the years. Long before Austen ever stepped onto the field himself, he grew up at the diamonds watching his dad play for Diamond Dave’s, spending countless nights at the ballpark and building his love for the game from the sidelines. Looking back now, he considers that another full circle moment in his softball journey.
Giving back to the game
Austen has proudly served on the MSA Board of Directors for the past four years and currently serves as Vice President. Along with his role on the board, he also runs the Vaughn’s Pub softball team and stays heavily involved in helping grow the game both on and off the field. Through softball, he has built some of his greatest memories, strongest friendships, and unforgettable life moments.
Family at the ballpark
Family has always been a huge part of Austen’s softball journey. His wife has supported him, his teams, and the softball lifestyle since the day they started dating, and that support has meant everything to him. Their daughter has also been part of the softball community from the very beginning. At just one month old, she attended the state tournament where Austen and his team won the Men’s Class B State Championship, and she has been right there alongside the family at games and tournaments ever since. Austen now also has the opportunity to coach her tee ball team, bringing his love for the game full circle in a whole new way.
A vision for MSA
To Austen, softball is about far more than competition. It represents family, tradition, community, and building something bigger than yourself. His goal for MSA is to continue improving the leagues and facilities, supporting players and families, growing participation, and helping ensure Marshalltown remains a place where softball continues to thrive for future generations.
Austen is incredibly proud to be part of the leadership at MSA and looks forward to continuing to help shape the future of softball within the Marshalltown community.