Written by
Dee Loflin SMT Manager/Writer

Dexter, Missouri – It’s not everyday you get to witness a high school student develop into a great athlete.  Perhaps a major league player in our mists, some of us can only dream of playing in the big leagues. Brad Potts not only has the skill and techniques of being a great player, but academically he has also earned his place.

Brad just recently signed to play baseball with Shawnee Community College in Ullin, Illinois.  He will not only be a position player, but will be pitching for the SCC Saints.  Not many college students have that opportunity.  Potts was also selected First Team-All Conference as an infielder having played for the Dexter Bearcats as both a shortstop and a pitcher.

Shawnee Head Coach Greg Sheppard not only dedicates himself to promoting and teaching baseball skills, but also prides himself with knowing they are receiving a quality education and that the team performs academically as well.

“Our goal every year is to earn a team GPA above 3.0.  I am very proud of what our players, both past and present, have accomplished in the classroom,” stated Coach Sheppard.  “In 16 out of the past 17 years we have achieved that goal. There are very few NJCAA baseball programs who have year in and year out performed at the academic level as our Saints.” 

Brad will have the opportunity to join 23 former Shawnee Community College baseball players who have earned NJCAA Academic honors.  “I want Brad to have the opportunity to go above and beyond here at Shawnee.  I expect him to exceed what other students are doing.” commented Coach.

The SCC Saints are members of the National Junior College Athletic Association and their Baseball Team participates in the Division I Region 24 as well as National Tournaments. 

Brad plans to obtain his degree in Business Administration.  He isn’t taking the summer off either as he is currently playing on a traveling team, the Charleston Fighting Squirrels.

Shown in the picture sitting at the table: Courtney Potts (Sister), Brad Potts, Zach Potts (Brother). Standing are Coach Becker, Peggy Potts (Mom) and Randy Potts (Dad).

Congratulations Brad on your signing to play for the Saints!  The Dexter Community is extremely proud of you and wishes you well in your future endeavors.