I’m a mama’s boy. There is simply no denying it. 

I don’t take it as an insult. Instead, I wear it as a badge of honor. And I’m thankful it was my turn for the Sunday column on this special day because I have two special moms who deserve all the praise in the world. 

As many know, my mother – Renee Morgan – was the one who pushed me into sports writing. Far fewer people would know that my step-mom – Emily Simmons (I don’t think the step applies after 30-plus years though) – has been just as instrumental in helping me on this path for years. They’ve supported me through my many swaps, always been my biggest fans as readers and never miss a chance to give me pointers if they think I can be better.

I’ve been truly blessed by the support system they’ve created and it has been there for so many years. And I know a lot of it is because they had that same support system – absolutely wonder mothers (my grandmothers) who were always steady forces in their lives. And it’s where they harnessed their strength, gained their keen senses and developed into tremendous nurturing moms for their kids.

Strength is something I always attribute to my mom. She’s my rock – really, she’s everybody’s rock. She has held up through some of the worst of times over the last few years and never wavered. And while some wondered how she did it, I already knew she could.

I’ve seen my mom be superhuman my whole life. When I was a wild lefty growing up trying to be the next MLB pitcher from Warren County, my mom was right there helping me achieve my dreams. During times when kids my age wouldn’t even get in the batter’s box to face me (not because of the speed, but because of my lack of accuracy), my mom would go out in the yard and catch for me without anything more than an old glove she had for years.

She was fearless. She is still fearless in my eyes. 

It’s the same for Emily. I’ve often laughed at the fact that since I’ve been 13, I’ve towered over both of my moms, but they’ve never been afraid to put me in my place. Even when I was 20 and coming back from college (and, foolishly, thinking I was an adult), I remember Emily having to remind me that respect and accountability are non-negotiables in the Simmons house. 

If I stepped out of line, she made sure to put me back in my place. She protected me from being a dumb kid. She still helps me and keeps me from being a dumb adult from time-to-time now. 

Today, and every day, I hope they know how much I love and appreciate them. I wouldn’t be the man I am if not for the women who helped raise me. I owe them more than I could ever repay, I’m just lucky they aren’t the type to collect on those debts.

Happy Mother’s Day Mom and Em! And Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms in Warren County! 

Standard Sports Editor Jeffery Simmons can be contacted at sports@southernstandard.com