Jemison baseball players Phillip and Will Lenoir both signed to play baseball at Marion Military Institute on Tuesday.

“It’s been a long process, but we’ve been looking forward to this day ever since we started playing,” Jemison senior outfielder Phillip Lenoir said. “It’s been pretty humbling.”

The institute is located in Marion and is one of five military junior colleges within the United States.

“They came pretty hard at us and offered a full ride,” Lenoir said. “Everybody welcomed us down there, and I think it’s going to be a great decision.”

Phillip plays in the outfield while Will occupies the middle of the infield as a shortstop.

“The best part of both of their games is the ability to hit the baseball,” Jemison head baseball coach Jason Easterling said. “They work hard and they lead by example.”

The two brothers have been shared the baseball diamond since they began playing at 6 years old. They will continue to play for the same team for at least the next two years.

“My dad and the coaches that I’ve been around have built me up to where I am right now,” Jemison senior shortstop Will Lenoir said. “I’ve adapted to see the game and the way it’s played at the next level.”

Both Will and Phillip are examples of the family atmosphere that is reflected within the Jemison baseball program and community.

According to Easterling, about every two years the brother of a former player will come down the pipeline. That cycle allows the team chemistry to remain consistent despite change.

“I used to teach at the elementary school, so I’ve watched them play all the way through,” Easterling said. “I’m proud that they continue to get a chance to play.”