Lambton College has announced the recruitment of a two-sport athlete.
The school is adding some speed to the basepaths and the hardwood with the commitment of AJ Edwards.
He'll be starring on Lambton's baseball and basketball teams for the 2024-2025 season, and beyond.
On the diamond, Edwards is the fourth commitment for Head Coach Al Bezaire and the Lions.
Edwards will join the likes of Kale Murray (Mitchell, Ont.), Luke Murray (Mitchell, Ont.), and Drew Bunda (Wallaceburg, Ont.) as a newcomer on the diamond with the Lions come September.
Bezaire commented on Edwards' commitment.
"Being a varsity player at two sports confirms the word that keeps coming up when describing [Edwards] … athlete," said Bezaire. “I am really looking forward to the versatility that [Edwards] will bring to our roster as both an infielder and outfielder. In pairing him with Logan Buntrock, the defending stolen bases leader in the OCAA, in our lineup and roaming the outfield on defense, speed and athleticism will be two of the key strengths we will bring to the field every game. I am very happy to welcome [Edwards] to the Lambton Lions family."
On the hardwood, Edwards is the 12th new addition in the 2024 recruiting class for the Men’s Basketball Program and Head Coach James Grant.
"We heard about [Edwards] through a friend of the college who said we should get down to Brampton to see him play,” said Grant. “We’re happy we made the trip, as he’s a tremendous athlete with a great personality. He definitely fits the type of culture that we are looking to create with this freshman class we are putting together."
In a news release, Edwards said he's really excited to put in the work and show what he's got.
"I’m the first in my family to get a scholarship to play two sports in college, so I’m really looking forward to the opportunity," said Edwards. "I’m looking forward to developing my skills for both sports while working towards helping both teams win an OCAA Gold."
Edwards plays either middle infielder or centre field in baseball, and can also play both guard positions on the basketball court.
“I’m a dog, so I want to win,” added Edwards with a smile. “I’m very competitive and I’ll do anything that I need to for the teams … I just want to win.”
"For baseball, when I get on base, I like to get dirty. I’m going to steal second, then I’m going to steal third. In basketball, I like to shoot that three, so anytime I get that open shot, I want fans in the stands to be excited."
Edwards comes to Lambton College by way of David Suzuki Secondary School in his hometown of Brampton.
In the summer months, he plays for the Brampton Royals 18U program.
Outside of high school, he plays for Ballers United Academy.
Academically, Edwards will be enrolled in the Sports & Recreation Management Program at Lambton College.