Connecting the dots
Thor Williams’ ‘uncommon’ work ethic leads him to Buzzards Bay, Massachusetts
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Anderson County High School Athletic Director Gary Terry introduces Thor Williams during his scholar- ship signing ceremony with Massachusetts Maritime Academy. - Ken Leinart
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Thor Williams (with tie) and his family during his signing day ceremony with Massachusetts Maritime Academy. - Ken Leinart
Anderson County High School two-sport standout Thor Williams will continue his baseball career with the Massachusetts Maritime Academy Buccaneers.
Williams signed his letter of intent in February.
He will major in naval engineering and marine architecture.
“That’s his passion,” his father, Rob, said. “And baseball.
“Three schools offered the same program, but he settled with Maritime Academy.”
Located in Buzzards Bay, Mass., the school is a public university focusing on maritime-related fields.
It is also 15 hours away from Clinton.
“I spent a lot of time in prayer with God,” Williams said about making his decision.
“It’s a big change.”
Getting from Anderson County High School to Buzzards Bay, Mass. (or any college/university), takes work. And during his signing day, Williams’ work ethic in practice, the film and weight rooms were pointed out.
“Your work ethic is uncommon,” Anderson County High School Head Football Coach Davey Gillum said during Williams’ signing ceremony. Gillum coached Williams in his other sport, football.
“It’s not uncommon to find a kid who works hard, but it’s uncommon to find kids who connect all the dots.”
Connecting all the dots meant having the grades to pursue his passion.
“Thor worked hard to make good grades,” his father said, emphasizing “good.”
“He’s had a very positive influence at Anderson County; he’s made a lot of friends here.”
Connecting all the dots also means the way Williams carried himself in his high school career.
“You have real character, not just situational character,” Anderson County High School Principal Ben Downs told Williams.
“Thank you for being respectful, it’s always ‘yes, sir,’ or ‘no, sir.’ Thank you for what you’ve done for Anderson County during the last four years.”