Wright City senior catcher Bryce Williams, who recently signed with Illinois College to play college baseball, credits the facilities and the atmosphere at the school as big reasons he made the decision he did.

“It's truly a one-of-a-kind campus for the division it is,” he said. “The coaching staff also played a huge part in my decision. They make it feel like one big family and everyone knows everyone like a brother on the team and that's what I believe college baseball is about.”

That feeling of family hits close to home for Williams, who cited numerous members of his own family as major influences on him.

“One of my biggest inspirations is my dad Freddy Williams. He played baseball and I have always looked up to him my whole life and I plan on continuing to do the same through college and becoming an adult,” he said. “Another person I look up to even though I never got to meet him or actually watch him play ball was my cousin Michael McMahon. He was a catcher for St. Mary’s High School and he was killed in a car crash at the age of 16. Since I have been old enough to remember I was told stories about him. Ever since then I have always tried to fill his shoes.”

And never forget mom, of course, who Williams noted has always been one of his biggest supporters. 

“No matter what she is always showing up and cheering at my game. Rain, snow, or shine she's there,” he said.

Wright City coach Cody Bair, who is entering his second year with the program, offered numerous accolades on Williams, no doubt brought on in large part to the influences from his family.

“Besides being a stalwart on the baseball field, Bryce is a standout student,” said Bair. “Bryce's work ethic is not only evident on the playing field but in the classroom as well. Teachers consistently provide positive feedback about Bryce as a leader and positive role model in the classroom.”

A second-team Class 4 all-state selection last season, Williams batted a cool .438 in 68 plate appearances, all while playing one of the most difficult positions at catcher. Bair added that Williams brought numerous positives to the team.

Ultimately, the love of the game is what pushes Williams. 

“What I love about baseball the most is the brotherhood behind the sport, and the friends you can make for life. Baseball is a sport where, playing at a high level, you travel everywhere together,” he said. “With that being said, you get to know your teammates like you have known each other since you’ve been five years old.”