SPRINGFIELD -- The Effingham County Rebels honored an opponent who will always be one of their own.

Athletic Director Matt Huntley and head coach Chris Johnson presented Statesboro head coach Jim Simmons his Effingham County Sports Hall of Fame ring before the start of Wednesday's rained-out baseball game at Rebel Field. Simmons, inducted into the hall of fame in January, coached the Rebels from 1994-2005, amassing 193 victories and two region titles.

Simmons led the Rebels to the state playoffs five times, advancing to the Sweet 16 in his final season with them. He helped 17 players advance to the college and/or professional level.

As an additional show of their appreciation for Simmons, who threw out the ceremonial first pitch, the Rebels wore jerseys that said "Simmons Strong" on the back. Simmons is battling cancer.