Injured Williams becomes MOC's bench coach

By Ryan Hanchett
Published in Sports on May 29, 2008 4:01 PM

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SAUGET, Ill. -- Athletics often defines a person's character.

Anthony Williams is no exception.

Sidelined with an elbow injury for the NCAA Division II College World Series, the Mount Olive College second baseman is focusing on the positive events during his four years with the Trojans.

"You can't get bitter because you have to sit out," said Williams. "That's not me and that's not the way I handle things. I am still happy to be a part of the whole week with the guys."

Known for his sure hands and speed on the bases, Williams has been relegated to helping the Trojans who have taken his place at the CWS.

"I know it's killing Anthony not being out there," said Mount Olive assistant coach Rob Watt. "He is a competitor and if there was any way for him to play he definitely would."

Dylan Holton has stepped into Williams' position at second base and Joseph Westbrook has entered the Trojan batting order as the designated hitter during the first two games.

Always upbeat, Williams is quick to focus attention on his teammates' success.

"We have a lot of guys with jerseys that say Trojans on the front and I know they will do a good job," said Williams. "Dylan has learned a lot working with me at practice, and by working with the coaches throughout the year."

Drawing a sly grin, Williams also pointed out the unique abilities displayed by his replacements during the Trojans' come-from-behind victory over Ashland University.

"Having Westbrook in the lineup paid off yesterday," said Williams. "He hit a backside home run to get us further out in front, and if I were in the lineup that probably wouldn't have happened.

"I haven't hit a home run all season, so if I were in there it would have probably been a single and only one run."

Williams started 57 games for the Trojans prior to the final game of the South Atlantic Regional. During an elimination game against USC Aiken, the savvy senior aggravated his throwing elbow.

The injury should take three weeks to heal. Thus, Williams' career is complete.

During his final season at Mount Olive, Williams batted .321 and recorded an impressive .971 fielding percentage. Williams also finished with 20 stolen bases in 20 attempts.

As summer baseball nears, Williams is waiting to see if an opportunity to continue playing the game he loves arises.

"I haven't heard anything yet, but if that comes up I am certainly ready to go," said Williams. "Right now I am just enjoying the experience this week, being with my friends and trying to win a championship."