Juston Lewis | Valdosta Daily TimesDarren Long sits with his family after signing his letter of intent to play for Toccoa Falls Baseball.

DASHER –– On Monday, Georgia Christian baseball player Darren Long signed his letter of intent to play for Toccoa Falls College. He was surrounded by teammates, classmates, family, friends and his coach—who is also his father. 

“It’s a special time, even a more special time for me as a father than as a coach,” Darren’s coach and father Tony Long said. “He’s been such a hard worker all these years to get this for this to happen for him. We’re excited about where he’s going. The coaches where he’s going are good quality coaches, it’s a good christian school and we’re excited about the next chapter of his life.” 

During his career, Darren compiled a .415 batting average, .539 on base percentage and .674 slugging percentage. He’s been selected to the GICAA State All-Star Team the past two seasons and is a two-time GICAA All-Region selection. Darren will be playing for the Toccoa Falls Screaming Eagles, who currently hold a 21-20 record and are 6-0 in the National Christian College Athletics Association. 

“Everyday is fun, everyday is a new day, everyday is different,” Darren said in reflection of his career. 

The bond between the Long’s has grown and fostered to a blossom. Even on his special day, Darren felt feelings of sadness because one chapter of his life is closing. 

“It’s really sad. He’s been my coach for so long and I’m going up to the next level and he won’t be able to coach me there. I know he’s going to still be there. It’s hard to go away from home.”

The ink was not even dry on Darren’s letter before his father and teammates got on a bus headed to play in the GICAA Division 1-A state playoffs. Despite having to be tough on Darren, and playing the role of coach and father, there is a responsibility that is even bigger than either role.  

“It’s hard being his coach and his dad at the same time but I was always his biggest fan,” Tony said.