Greenville High School’s Errick Simmons Jr. was almost unstoppable last Friday night.
Simmons Jr., the Planters Bank Player of the Week, scored three receiving touchdowns last week during the Hornets’ 49-8 home victory over Ruleville Central High School. In total, he amassed 185 receiving yards from quarterback Ty’Mitchell McCollough. Simmons Jr. also had two long touchdown returns called back because of penalties.
Simmons Jr., a quick, explosive athlete, said he was thankful for having a great individual game, but even more thankful that his team is off to one of the best starts in recent history. Greenville is now 2-1 after last week’s win as the Hornets head into their home game tonight against rival Greenwood High School.
“It feels really satisfying to finally start winning some games,” Simmons Jr. said. “I certainly did not do this myself. I have my teammates to thank.”
Simmons Jr. said the night was especially meaningful to him because it was the first regular season home game for the Hornets since the team lost Jeremiah “Dugg” Williams.
“I was thinking about Dugg all night,” Simmons Jr. said. “I miss him every day.”
Jeremiah Williams, the honorary captain of this year’s Greenville team, died last year after suffering a neck injury on the football field.
“It feels like we are more of a family now. I am a strong believer in God, and I know all He wants for us is to do our best. If we do that, than the rest will take care of itself.”
The Hornets have lost to Greenwood the last two seasons, but both Simmons Jr. and head coach Quintarus McCray said they believe they can win tonight if they play a great game.
“We are always the underdog,” Coach McCray said. “Tonight is going to be a real big test for us against a high quality team. We know they defend well, but we believe that we can score on their defense if we do what we are capable of doing.”
