Simmons Superlatives - Best Senior

As usual, when it comes to Simmons Says columns my best-laid plans often go awry. Planning to do a daily release isn’t wise when I do two radio shows on Wednesday, one of which that spans somewhere between 2-10 hours depending on how many times you want to relisten to the Warren County Sports Authority.

Quick tangent: I don’t thank our listeners – or readers – enough for their support. Trev, coach and I started the WCSA podcast as something to do on a weeknight and it’s grown into what a few people have deemed as “appointment radio.” I can’t thank of y’all enough. And if you’ve seen the billboard, you’re welcome to submit your pictures to the WCSA Facebook page. We’ll be happy to delete them quickly.

OK, so yes, I’ll let you know that you can go back and read the Best Newcomers and Best Under-the-Radar Athletes lists – free of charge thanks to Security Federal Savings Bank – and I’ll be doing the rest of the awards as quickly as I can. The hope is I can release them each weekday (tomorrow will be Best Athletes) and finish up next week.

I’m only delaying over the weekend because I know I’ll be ramping up my coverage of the Spring Fling and I don’t want to overpromise and underdeliver … again.

Now that none of you read this and skipped right to the bold names, let’s get going with the Best Seniors of 2024-25. This reminder doesn’t feel necessary because of the category, but I will remind everybody – I’m only taking high school athletes in Warren County under consideration for this year’s Simmons Superlatives.

Zerek Keel – Wrestling

There may never be another quite like Zerek Keel. A four-time state qualifier and a multi-time champion in region and sectionals (as well as a key figure in Warren County’s District 7-AA championship this winter), Keel finished his storied career as Warren County High School’s all-time wins leader on the mat.

He also left as a state medalist, an accomplishment he was able to earn in 2023. Keel dominated opponents with a relentless motor, technical precision and a deep competitive fire. Whether it was a pin in under a minute or grinding out a decision in double-overtime, Keel found ways to win — and win often.

What truly set Keel apart, though, was his leadership. Younger wrestlers on the team looked to him not just for technique, but for toughness. In a sport that doesn’t always get the spotlight, Keel made it cool to be a wrestler at WCHS the last few years.

The program’s ascension in the Midstate mirrored Keel’s rise as one of the top athletes on the mat in Tennessee the last four years. He’ll be missed next year, but his legacy of winning will likely be passed down to teammates who will be striving to meet the high bar he left behind.

2. Xander McCormick – Football

Few players in the region were as physically dominant as 6-foot-4, 300-pound lineman Xander McCormick, who earned All-Region 6-4A honors for his work in the trenches.

A three-year starter for the Pioneers, McCormick was a stalwart on both the offensive and defensive lines, racking up 56 total tackles, including 23 solo stops. His size, strength and football IQ caught the attention of college recruiters, drawing interest from programs such as Appalachian State and Wake Forest.

More than just a physical presence, McCormick was the type of kid who opposing coaches had to account for every single snap. He could be a game wrecker on defense and was usually the guy the Pioneers wanted to run behind on offense.

McCormick will continue his career at Mars Hill University this fall.

Tyler "T-Bone" Adams – WCHS Baseball

Warren County’s infield had a general, and he was known as “T-Bone.” The senior shortstop earned All-District 9-4A honors after batting .362 with a .438 on-base percentage, leading the team with quiet confidence and sharp instincts.

Known for his glove and consistent bat, Adams was a four-year contributor (when he was healthy) who could do it all: turn two, lay down a bunt or drive in a runner in scoring position. Coaches often praised his situational awareness and leadership.

“Guys like ‘Bone, who could do multiple things, are tough to replace,” said head coach Phillip King after the season. “We’ll miss what he gave us on the field and in the clubhouse.”

As Warren County heads into a new era, Adams leaves behind big cleats to fill — and a standard future infielders will chase.

Connor Andrews – Boyd Soccer, Basketball, Tennis, XC

In a school that needs every capable athlete to take the challenge every time the weather changes, Connor Andrews still went above and beyond. Boyd is full of two-sport athletes, but few are true four-sport standouts. Andrews starred in every Bronco uniform. He served as a senior leader in soccer, basketball, tennis and cross country.

Andrews was especially electric on the soccer field, where he led Boyd Christian’s squad in scoring with over 20 goals, including two five-goal games. He also led the basketball team in scoring, showing off his athleticism and court vision.

Evan Snapp – WCHS Baseball

As the No. 1 pitcher on the Warren County staff, lefty Evan Snapp built a reputation for dominance on the mound and resilience under pressure. A Roane State signee, Snapp capped off a solid high school career with a series of big-time performances in his senior year.

His finest moment may have come on March 25, when he struck out 11 batters in a win over Coffee County. Just weeks later, he shut down Spring Hill with a four-hit complete game shutout. On senior night, Snapp again answered the call, throwing all seven innings and striking out six.

Snapp’s command, poise, and competitive drive made him a nightmare for hitters and a cornerstone for the Pioneer pitching rotation. Roane State is getting a gamer — someone who doesn’t shy away from the spotlight.