The Strom Thurmond baseball program has always been known for its undeniable talent, both in the past and present. As they entered the postseason, head coach Nathan Horton challenged his players to come together and lift each other up in pursuit of a common goal. This unity paid off as the Rebels finished a clean sweep of district play with a 2-1 win over Ninety Six in eight innings. Kaleb Simpkins’ walk-off hit secured their spot in the Class AA Upper State tournament.

Simpkins had already proven himself with a walk-off three-run home run in a previous game against Ninety Six. In the game on Monday, he delivered another game-winning hit, driving in the winning run after a series of strategic plays by his teammates. Horton commended Simpkins for his emotional intensity and ability to come through in clutch moments. The team celebrated his success, highlighting the importance of supporting each other both on and off the field. With this win, the Strom Thurmond baseball program continues to show its strength and determination in pursuit of victory.