Benedict College Athletics

Michael B. Simmons was born in Newark, New Jersey but grew up in Beaufort, S.C. Mike was raised in the Church, and at an early age was introduced to Jesus Christ and accepted Him as Lord and Savior.   In Beaufort, Michael developed a love of fitness, sports and healthy eating and became a stellar athlete in track and field with a specialty in hurdles.  He moved to Columbia, S.C. to attend Benedict College on a track scholarship and graduated in 1993 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Therapeutic/Community Recreation. At Benedict, he helped lead the track team to EIAC championships in 1989, 1990 and 1991 and a runner-up finish in 1992. The 1991 team also won the NAIA District 6 championship. Simmons was selected the Benedict Rookie of the Year in 1989, the Most Outstanding Sprinter/Hurdler in 1990 and the Most Outstanding Athlete in 1992. He qualified for the NAIA national track championships in 1991 in the 110 meter hurdles, and again in 1992 in the 110 and 400 meter hurdles.   After graduation, his passion for fitness continued to mature, and he became a certified fitness instructor and personal trainer, as well as Owner and Chief Executive Officer of It's Time To Live Longer, LLC, a health and wellness program that educates individuals on ways to live longer through nutrition and exercise.  During this time, he became acquainted with Elder White and became one of the original members of Rhema Christian Center.  After joining Rhema, Mike developed a true relationship with God and began to mature through the teaching of the Rhema Word.  Mike currently serves as a Deacon, Sunday School teacher and leader of the Men's Ministry.  He loves the Word of God and serving and telling others about Jesus Christ. Michael Simmons is a great man of God who is a loving and supportive husband and father, and enjoys laughing, gardening, running, sports, healthy living and being a vegetarian.