"Today is a great day for both of these young men, and I'm really proud of both of them for the solid contributions to our program," said Mathis.

While Mathis was proud to know two more players will achieve the dream of playing on the collegiate level, the signing was extra special due to the fact he got to enjoy the day as a father as well as a coach.

"After all these years of standing behind the players on signing day, it was a special feeling to be able to sit beside by own son as he signed a scholarship to go to college," stated Mathis. "He's learned an awful lot over the years, and to know he will have an opportunity to go to the next level makes me proud not only as his coach, but as his dad as well."

The younger Mathis played left field as a junior before moving to centerfield for his final year of high school, while Lyons has played a variety of positions but primarily is used at catcher or at first base.

Though the end result for this season is still unknown, the duo turned heads last year at the TSSAA state tournament in Murfreesboro, both in base running and with power at the plate.

Mathis tied the state record for runs scored in a game with four, while Lyons is currently tied for second in state tournament home runs with two.

Mathis, batting from the leadoff spot, has flourished. Currently he leads the squad with a .460 batting average, with 29 hits in 63 trips to the dish. Mathis also leads the team in stolen bases and runs scored with 23 and 31, respectively. 

"Bethel is getting a couple of fine young men that I believe will really help their program," added Mathis. "These kids are very knowledgeable about the game of baseball, they know the game and know what it takes to win. They have taken what God has given them and made the best of it. I'm proud of both of these guys."

Often lost in signing a scholarship is what it takes in the classroom to get ready for college, something Mathis pointed out.