Whether they were biological or through relationships formed on the gridiron, family members surrounded Greenville High School senior Brandon Simmons as he signed a letter of intent to play football for Huntingdon College.

The ceremony, held Monday at Greenville High School’s auditorium, was a celebration of not only Simmons and his accomplishments, but also of those who helped him along his path.

Adam Simmons, Brandon’s father, took to the stage prior to his son’s signing to thank those who had influenced their lives for the better.

“To his fellow seniors, we’ve been with you guys for a long time,” Simmons said. “We’ve built family relationships and friendships—half of you all have been at the house multiple times hanging out, and it wouldn’t be possible without you guys.

“It takes 11 on the field, and I appreciate the relationships that you guys have built with [Brandon], myself and my family.”

Brandon Simmons said that Huntingdon was the first school to reach out to him back in January, even if it wasn’t the only school.

“I had Belhaven University in Mississippi and Ferrum College in Virginia to make offers to me,” he said.  “I took a trip to Virginia, a trip to Belhaven and two trips to Huntingdon to visit, and I sat down with Coach Kirk, and we talked.  The week before last, I went up to Huntingdon, and by last weekend I’d made my decision to go there.”

As for why he chose Huntingdon, the college’s proximity to his family was one of several reasons.

“I just wanted to stay close to home—that had a lot to do with it,” he added. “I really didn’t want to be too far off. And then, they’ve just got a great program.  They’ve won their conference back-to-back years, and I just wanted to be a part of a good program that wins.”

The presence of fellow teammates, including 2016 GHS graduate Skylar Moorer and current GHS senior Joseph Price, also aided in the decision.

Simmons finished his tenure at Greenville High School with 43 touchdowns and 4,139 passing yards, though he insist that the stats sheet and the record books only tell a fraction of the story.

“My sophomore year, I barely had any experience and we went to the third round,” he said. “And I think that molded me into making it to the second round in my junior year starting, and playing St. Pauls.  My senior year didn’t go as well as we wanted it to, but I still learned a lot.  I still got better, and my experience at Greenville High School was a great one.  I loved my time here.”

Greenville head football coach Josh McLendon said that Simmons’ level-headed nature and work ethic would likely ensure his success at the collegiate level.

“He’s going to work, and he’s going to do what you ask him to do, and he’s going to study the film and do those types of things,” McLendon said. “He’s as good off the field as he is on the field. 

“He’s done a good job for us. He had some big games and some good success for the last three years for us, so this is well deserved.  I wish him the best, I hope that it’s everything he wants it to be and that he’s successful at the next level like he was for us.”