Jake Moffitt and Ty Long, childhood friends from Ripley, Mississippi, are making significant strides for the University of Southern Mississippi in their respective sports. Moffitt, a freshman in men’s golf, set a school record with an average of 70.4 strokes per round and earned the SBC Freshman of the Year honor, propelling the team to their first NCAA Men's Golf Regional. Meanwhile, Long, a sophomore infielder, contributed to the baseball program's 10th consecutive 40-win season and the first Sun Belt Conference championship, securing the top seed for the postseason tournament.

By the Numbers
  • Ty Long helped USM achieve its 10th consecutive 40-win season.
  • Jake Moffitt averaged 70.4 strokes per round, setting a school record over 30 rounds.
Yes, But

Their success comes amid the challenges of growing up in a small town with limited resources. While Moffitt and Long acknowledge that larger towns may offer more opportunities, they emphasize how their small-town upbringing fostered strong work ethics and resilience.

State of Play
  • Moffitt's golf team prepares for their first NCAA Men’s Golf Regional.
  • Long has secured a regular starting position with the USM baseball team's postseason on the horizon.
What's Next

Both athletes aim for high achievements: Moffitt hopes for a top-five finish in the NCAA regional to qualify for the national championship, while Long looks to help the baseball team advance in the postseason and compete for national honors.

Bottom Line

Moffitt and Long exemplify how determination and a strong work ethic can lead to success in sports, regardless of humble beginnings. Their journey reflects the essence of perseverance and community pride, highlighting that hard work and resilience can transcend the limitations of small-town life.