February Halftime Report - Coach Brian Simpson

From the age of six, baseball became more than a game for Brian Simpson – it became a passion that would greatly shape his life. As a player, he committed to mastering the game, resulting in successful high school and collegiate careers playing 1^st and 3^rd base for Palmetto High School and then at the University of South Carolina Upstate (formerly known as USC Spartanburg). He learned many valuable lessons along the way, but little did he know that this love for baseball would pave the way for a long and fulfilling career as a coach.

 

Transitioning from player to coach was a natural progression for Brian. After his collegiate baseball career at Upstate came to an end, he was asked to join the staff as an assistant coach. And so began his professional career that has been characterized by an unwavering dedication to the development of young student-athletes.

 

Coach Simpson was heavily influenced by Coach Bubba Dorman (USC Upstate) and Coach Roger Finley (Palmetto HS), both considered coaching legends in the state of South Carolina. Their mentorship provided valuable lessons in leadership, shaping Brian’s philosophy on coaching – one where he seeks to instill a strong work ethic in his players and develop them as young men, both on and off the field.

 

After coaching with the staff at USC Upstate for two years, Brian made the move to Carolina High School, where he had his first head coaching job. In 2006, he transitioned to JL Mann, where he stayed for 15 seasons, leading the Patriots to five region championships, two district championships, and two Upper State championships. Over that period, Brian was named Region Coach of the Year six times and State Coach of the Year in 2015.

 

Director of Athletics, Molly Miller, describes Coach Simpson as “a well-known and top-notch high school baseball coach in South Carolina.” He carries an impressive resume and has put together an “exceptional” coaching staff for CCES Baseball. Miller says, “I am excited to see this program continue to develop under his leadership in the years to come.”

 

Throughout his years of coaching, Brian has remained committed to character development, nurturing talent, and guiding players towards collegiate opportunities if that’s what they sought. As the newest Head Coach of Cavalier Baseball, he aims to do the same for his players here. He acknowledges that this team is “young,” but is excited for all the “valuable experience” they will gain this season, with the goal of making a deep playoff run. Regardless of how the season ends, Brian does know this – this program will have a team culture of resilience, perseverance, and excellence, building the foundation for years to come.

To follow along with the CCES Varsity Baseball season, click here for their schedule! Go Cavs!