Poplar Bluff's Tyson Cox signed his National Letter of Intent on Friday to play baseball for University of Tennessee-Martin.
The four-year letterman was named first team All-District and first team All-Conference in each of the past three seasons.
In 2017, he earned the SEMO Conference Player of the Year and was a first team All-State infielder.
As a middle infielder he tallied a .392 career batting average, including five home runs and 46 RBIs. 32 of his 68 career stolen bases came during his senior season -- a school record.
This past season, Cox's efforts helped -- along with seven other seniors -- lead the Mules to a 20-2 record that culminated in a 5-2 loss to Jackson in the district finals. His performance over the season led him to be selected to play in the 2018 MHSBCA Class 5 Senior All-Star Game.
The opportunity to play collegiate baseball is a moment that Cox has been anticipating for years.
"I've been thinking about (playing collegiately) since I was little," he said. "For this to come true is pretty amazing."
Cox also received offers from multiple junior colleges, but after deliberating with his parents, they collectively decided the Skyhawks were the best fit. The high quality facilities and coaching staff contributed to Cox decision when he visited the campus.
"The coach was awesome," he said. "He's really straight forward and tells you what he expects out of you."
"He wants me to grow into my role (on the team). I've got to work my butt off if I want to play freshman year."
Mules coach Steve Edwards believes Cox's work ethic can lead him to see playing time next spring.
"Everyone is going to be on the same playing field. Some may be more advanced as a player, but the idea is to find a guy and chase him and beat him out."
"It's important to have the same routine everyday," Edwards said. "Don't miss a workout. Be true to the program. Try to beat the guy in front of you by setting goals every day. Being a Division I player is exciting, but being a Division I player that gets on the field and plays is a lot more (exciting)."
The Skyhawks are getting a self-described "athletic" player and one willing to do whatever it takes to make his team better each day.
Edwards believes Cox's athleticism will separate him from other players.
"His speed is on a different level from everyone else," he said. "But also, his glove is great and he can hit the ball very well."
UT-Martin plans to keep Cox at middle infield.
Its daunting to replace someone of Cox's caliber in just one season, but Poplar Bluff will be looking to do just that for the 2019 season.
"We have plans for next year," Edwards said. "We're excited for what we have coming for next season and we're going to get after it like we do every year."
Cox is currently undecided on his major.