Roy & Powell Sign To Play At Next Level

It was a big day at Toombs County High School last Wednesday as 2 standout athletes signed their letters of intent to play at the collegiate level. Hayden Roy signed to play football at Mercer University and Emerson Powell signed to play softball for Brewton-Parker Christian University. They have both made big impacts on the programs at TCHS and will continue to do so at the next level.

Roy to Mercer

Hayden Roy has been a key player for the Bulldogs over the past few seasons, including last year's State Championship. He is again a big part of this year's team that will play for back-to-back titles next week.

He will take those talents to play for the Bears of Mercer University, joining last year's State Championship Game MVP Mike Polke.

Coach Buddy Martin said, “He is a phenominal young man. He is the poster child for what you want in a football player. He is tough, hardnosed, a leader, shows up to work every day, just a key on our team. This senior class is 42-9 at this point, and he has been a big part of that success. This is my third year as the Head Coach, and so I've never coached in that position without him on the field, and that is kinda scary. He had several offers, but it just fits for him. They have a good program, conference champions the past 2 years, good academics. I think he has a chance to get in there and go right to work.

Roy stated, “Mercer is a good school and I can get a good education there. They have a really good football program, and I really liked their coaching staff. I have to thank God for this chance, my family for pouring into me, and my coaches and my teammates for pushing me and believing in me.”

Powell to BPCU

Emerson Powell has been a big part of a record setting group of girls at Toombs County. They won over 80 games and came away as the State Runner-up last season and made it back to Columbus this year as well. She also set several records at Toombs including stolen bases and walks.

Coach Hayne Brant stated, “This is a big opporunity for her, getting to play at the next level. She has definetly left a legacy here at Toombs, and we are excited for her. To be a part of an 80 win senior class is impressive, and she holds a lot of records here at Toombs County. She is going to be missed on the field. She can play anywhere and they are getting a good one.”

Powell said, “I really like the coaching staff, it is close to home. My sister plays for them and it will be great to get to play with her again. I really want to thank my family for everything they have done for me. I want to thank my travel ball coaches for all they have done, and of course, Coach Brant for pushing me. Just have to make sure that you work hard even when people aren't looking, just keep getting better, and things will happen.”

(L to R, Front): Don Powell, Emerson Powell, Trelawney Powell; (Back): Aniston Powell, and Summer Powell.Photo by Mike Branch