BUFFALO TWP — Playing college baseball at a Division I school in the warm climate near Myrtle Beach, S.C., sounds like a dream come true.

At least it's Ryan Siegel's dream, and it became official Wednesday when Siegel, a senior outfielder for Freeport High, signed to play at Coastal Carolina, a top 25-caliber team based in Conway, S.C.

"My whole life I've worked for this with my dad," said Siegel. "To sign early, it was good to get this out of the way. Now I can play baseball this spring and not have to worry about any scouts in the stands."

Siegel, who lives in Sarver, chose Coastal Carolina over Radford (Va.) and St. Peter's (N.J.) University.

"Virginia Tech was going to offer, about a week later after I made my decision," Siegel said.

"The fact they are one of the best teams in the country, a top 25 team, and play at the highest collegiate level each year and a chance to play in the College World Series was big.

"And it's down south, so there's no snow," Seigel added.

Two of Siegel's teammates also will play baseball in college. Ricky Francart is headed to Division I St. Peter's as a preferred walk-on while infielder Jarrod Mancine will play at LaRoche College.

"Our team is pretty committed," said Seigel. "There are a lot of people in Freeport who like baseball."

Last season as a junior, Siegel batted .457 with six home runs and 19 RBI.

"Ryan's a five-tool kid. he hits well, fields well, has a good arm, can hit for power and is fast," said Freeport coach Chris Graczyk. "His home runs and RBI, I'm sure that brought him to some prominence.

"He had three games in a row with a home run. That's hard to ignore, especially around here," Graczyk added.

Siegel also played fall ball with the Allegheny Pirates and this summer played with the Pittsburgh Bulldogs in the highly competitive Western Pennsylvania Elite Baseball League.

"And I've worked with (Freeport football and track coach) Bruce Yard since I was 9 years old," Siegel said. "He played in the Los Angeles Dodgers organization and he gives me tips and pitches."

Siegel said he believes his speed is the most attractive of his skills, not necessarily the power he displayed last season.

"Coach Graczyk and I worked on my power game," said Siegel. "I'm comfortable on the field, but I'm not trying to hit for power. I'm not expecting to hit home runs. Usually, speed is my game."

No matter what skill is his strongest suit, Graczyk said Siegel will have no trouble making the move to the Division I level.

"His work ethic, that sets him apart," said Graczyk. "Given the opportunity to take the time and go into a college setting, he'll excel."