Durbin, a catcher/outfielder from Delaware, Ohio, will transfer to MVNU after two years at Northern Kentucky University. After red-shirting in 2007, Durbin posted a .458 batting average in nine games (seven starts) during the 2008 season as he went 11-for-24 with three doubles, seven RBI, and nine runs scored. During his high school career at Buckeye Valley High School, Durbin was a two-time Mid-Ohio Athletic Conference First Team and All-Delaware County First Team selection as well as a two-time All-District Second Team pick. He helped Buckeye Valley to three straight MOAC titles and two sectional championships.

“Ian is a player who we had an interest in out of high school,” said MVNU head coach Keith Veale, who has posted a 641-310 record in 19 seasons at the helm of the Cougars. “We are glad to have him eventually head our way. We believe he can be a tremendous help behind the plate. We feel that catching defense is an area where we must upgrade through the continued development of our returning players and through the recruiting process. Ian provides experience and strong defensive skills which will allow him to compete for innings and at bats this spring.”

In addition to playing baseball at Buckeye Valley, Durbin was an All-Conference honoree in basketball. He was also a member of the Buckeye Valley symphonic choir. He also played baseball on several summer teams including the Delaware County Lightning, the Delaware Post 115 Legion team, and the Columbus Braves.

“There are several reasons why I have decided to transfer to MVNU,” said Durbin of his college choice. “It is closer to home and my family and it has exceptional values and morals within a Christian environment. It also has a great academic reputation and a strong baseball program.”

MVNU is an NAIA school that competes in the American Mideast Conference. The Cougars posted a 39-21 overall record in 2008 and captured the program’s sixth National Christian College Athletic Association national title. The team also advanced to the NAIA Region IX Tournament championship game for the ninth straight year. Over the years, MVNU has had 13 players drafted by Major League teams including Tim Belcher, who was the top pick overall in the 1983 draft. Seven other former players have signed free agent contracts to play professional baseball.