American River College sophomores Matt Clarke (Bella Vista) and Justin Hanlin (Whitney) signed National Letters of Intent (NLI) on Thursday during signing week, head baseball coach Doug Jumelet announced.

Clarke, a second baseman from Bella Vista signed with the University of Colorado- Colorado Springs to play for Head Coach Dave Hajek, a Citrus Heights native who prepped at San Juan High School. Clarke was a 2nd team all-BIG 8 Conference player last season who hit leadoff for the Beavers. "Matt has worked really hard to improve all areas of his game. He has become a really good player, tremendous leader, and a really steadying influence to our team," said A.R.C. head Coach Doug Jumelet.

Hanlin played left field for the Beavers last season and was also named 2nd team all-BIG 8 Conference. The sophomore from Whitney High School signed with Southern Arkansas University to play for Head Coach Justin Pettigrew. Assistant Coach Brandon Stover was an assistant at Abilene Christian University where he coached current A.R.C. pitching coach Preston Vancil. Hanlin hit 4 home runs for the Beavers last year, the most for an A.R.C. player since Kody Curtis did so in 2009. "Justin is really happy with his decision and so am I. He had a really solid year for us last year and I expect him to be a force in the middle of the lineup for us. He has tools that few guys at this level have", said Coach Jumelet.

The Beavers will open up the 2018 campaign on Friday, January 26th with a home game against West Valley College at 2:00 p.m.