by Kimberly Willis Green
Trendarius Edwards Simmons is a graduating senior at Frederick Douglass High School. Born to the late Cheree and Edward Simmons, Trendarius is a native of Atlanta. At the age of 12, Trendarius lost his mother to her second fight with breast cancer. This tragic loss motivated him to do well in school and granted him a purpose in life. He realizes that in addition to graduating from high school, he also needs to persevere because he knows it was a high expectation of his mother.
“Trendarius is very intentional about seeking out great opportunities for himself and taking advantage of what is currently available, said Douglass High School Counselor Dr. Sheryl Neely. “He strikes that rare balance between, motivation, personality and performance that denotes a well-rounded and successful young student.”
At Douglass, Trendarius plays center field on the varsity baseball team, serves on The North Star newspaper staff and the school’s Audio Video Team for school productions and special events; and he is an Astro Band assistant. When asked about his college career, Trendarius says, “My collegiate goals are to obtain and secure a position on a college baseball team. I plan to major in sports medicine, with a minor in sports management. I am a good candidate for any school. In addition to my academic interests, I have known baseball since I was young. I have a love for the game.”
Trendarius’ passion for baseball motivates him to become successful. “I work extremely hard when it comes to baseball. What makes me different is that I do not care about the hard work that is required to become a member of a team or to solidify a position,” says Trendarius. “I have a passion for the game – I will never quit playing whether I make it to the big leagues or not; but hopefully, I will.” Trendarius plans to attend Lane College this fall and eventually pursue a career in the Minor and Major Baseball leagues.
Trendarius often thinks about the quote, “Without struggle there is NO progress,” by Frederick Douglass. “I live by that quote every day. It pushes me harder,” he adds.
Congratulations Trendarius!
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