Graham Sim Signs with the Sussex CC Skylanders in New Jersey
Graham Sim, the 18U Titans’ talented right-handed starting pitcher, committed to Sussex County CC in Newton, New Jersey yesterday. Sim becomes the third Titan to commit to a US College this month, following the letters of intent submitted by Matthew Brandt and Cooper Tomkinson. Lawrence Vera, the Titans Director of Player Operations, offered some context for his baseball club’s latest college commitment: “Graham was a late signing this summer for the Titans, but it was totally worth the wait. Graham came to us with some goals and we worked together to help him achieve his first step towards his D1 NCAA dream. Graham is getting the opportunity to compete for a starting role right away with a great path for his academic career. He’s one of the most polite kids I have ever met and I am proud to be able to call him a member of the Titans Family.”
Coach Vera’s exuberance was mirrored by the first year Titan who said it is with “great excitement’ that he “committed to Sussex County CC. I chose Sussex because I believe that this is my best opportunity to play at the highest level possible and develop as a baseball player. After talking to the coaches, it was very evident to me that this was a great fit and they have my best interests in mind. It will be a great opportunity to earn a starting spot and have significant success.”
When not engaged in competing for a starting spot in the Sussex Skylanders’ rotation, Sim noted that he “will be studying business management as an undergraduate student.” The resident of Bradford also added that he’s “excited to have an extended season with a little warmer climate. I cannot wait to play baseball every day and truly train outside like a professional. Newton is a small town in New Jersey with a very supportive fan base for their local college.” Sim also noted how much he enjoyed playing for the 18U Titans, despite the COVID19 restrictions: “This is my first year with the Titans and I can say the Fall was great. Bonding with my new teammates and playing in competitive games was inspiring after being locked in all summer due to the pandemic. The highlight for me was having the privilege of being the starting pitcher in the coaches versus players charity game. It was a great event for an even better cause and it was truly an honour for me to start that game on behalf of all of the Titans players.”
Sim also thanked the Titans for playing “a significant role in my commitment to Sussex. Without the help of Lawrence, none of this would be possible. He was directly responsible for contacting their coach and setting up my first phone call and for that I cannot thank Lawrence and the entire program enough.” 18U Assistant Coach Alex Crocco had nothing but praise for his starting pitcher: “Graham is the type of man and player that every coach dreams of having on their team. I’m sure I speak for the rest of the coaching staff in that I’m beyond proud of Graham and his commitment. His bulldog work ethic, competitiveness, and leadership will no doubt carry him to the next level.”
Graham Sim offered this advice to younger Titans players to get the next level as described by Coach Crocco: “I would remind all of the younger Titans that you must work for everything you’re gonna receive in life. Baseball is very competitive and getting to the next level is no exception. You must be determined, focused and dedicated to mastering your crafts and working on your weaknesses. You cannot fear failure because not everything in baseball is ideal; it is so important how you bounce back from your failures and improve as a player. During the coaches and players game, I had the opportunity to talk to some of the younger guys and answer some questions for them. That is something I truly love to do because I was once a younger player looking for any edge and advantage I could get.” With this combination of citizenship and skill, Graham Sim is a cinch to succeed at Sussex CC. Congratulations on signing your letter of intent with the Skylanders, Graham!