Two Turner Titans sign with University of the Cumberlands

Published 2:00 pm Friday, February 3, 2023

ASHBURN — Two Turner County Titans continued their football careers on National Signing Day, Feb. 1. Cam Parker and Vaad Bynum both signed with the University of the Cumberlands.

“I’m glad those two guys have this opportunity in front of them,” said head coach Ben Simmons. “Both young men were solid leaders for us [and] not just this year.”

Simmons said they were outstanding not only on the football field, but also in the classroom and community. “They always did the things we asked of them,” he said.

The University of the Cumberlands is based in Williamsburg, Ky. While not a college on the tip of the tongues of most South Georgians, it has become a popular landing spot for athletes from this state. The 2022 roster listed 23 Peach State players and Bynum and Parker could potentially have teammates from Wilcox County, Valdosta, Berrien and Lanier County.

Parker is a lineman, while Bynum played linebacker and in the backfield for the Titans last season. Bynum led Turner with 1,364 rushing yards (at a clip of 8.3 yards per carry) and scored 16 rushing touchdowns. He also was one of the team’s top receivers, with 148 yards and a touchdown.

Simmons said it was a great ceremony for everyone in attendance. Every family member had smiles on their faces, he said.

Signings such as Bynum’s and Parker’s are for more than just the players and families involved. Simmons sees its impact on all of Turner County.

“It’s a great feeling,” he said. Simmons said he talked to the student body about achievements beyond sports. “It’s good for the athletes and for all the kids, no matter what you do. Do the right things, care for your grades, you have the opportunity to do great things.”

Simmons celebrated his birthday Feb. 1, making it an extra special day for himself. He remembered a previous signing day from his first stint at Turner County that included Ontaria Wilson inking with Florida State. Wilson caught a career high 30 passes for 495 yards in 2022, his fifth playing season at FlSU, and is a potential NFL draft pick.