Coach Aarstad pitched at Central Washington University from 1997-1999. Prior to that he played from 1995-1997 at Big Bend Community College where he was team captian his Sophomore year. While at Big Bend Community College he played 3rd base and was the closer for the Vikings. During his Sophomore year, Big Bend placed 2nd in State in the NWAACC tournament. During the state tournament Coach Aarstad had 3 of the Viking's wins as a pitcher and was elected to the All-tournament team. The 3 wins in the state tournament is the record.
In High School Coach Aarstad played under Jim Clem in Burlington-Edison where he was a 1st baseman and a pitcher. During Coaches Jr. year Burlington took 5th in state and during his Sr. year they made another state appearance.
