For Brandon Simon Jr., baseball has been more than just a sport—it’s been a lifelong outlet and a personal journey of perseverance. “I am a senior at Okmulgee High School, home of the Bulldogs. I have attended Okmulgee since I was in preschool,” he shared. “I started playing baseball when I was three years old when my parents signed me up for the summer youth teams.”
Brandon’s love for the game began in the midst of a difficult chapter. “When I was born, I had a heart defect that wasn’t found until I was a toddler. I was unable to play contact sports for a while after a coil was placed on my heart,” he explained. “My parents signed me up for baseball, and I fell in love with the sport instantly.”
This season, Brandon is embracing every moment on the field. “As a senior, this season means a lot to me. I’m really focused on making the most of my last year and leaving everything on the field,” he said. “My goal is to keep pushing myself to improve—whether it’s helping the underclassmen develop or refining my own game.”
His role is a big one. “This year I am the district starting pitcher. When I’m not pitching, I will be playing first base,” he said. “I throw my bullpen on Tuesday. I am working my way towards throwing 100 pitches before the season.”
The culture of the Bulldogs is something Brandon is proud of. “Our team chemistry is good. We are trying to get better, so we are keeping the complaining down and encourage each other to be their best,” he said. “When someone is falling, we as a team are there to pick them up and help them get through it and come out a better player.”
As graduation approaches, Brandon is ready for what’s next. “Next year I start Langston University playing football. I would have loved to play baseball on a college level, but at this time they do not have a team,” he said. “In five years, I will have my bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and coming back to my hometown to give back to my community.”
