Brie Smith is a junior at Collinsville and can play just about any position around the softball diamond. Smith makes appearances in the outfield, at shortstop, and catcher. Smith wants to help her team win and will do whatever it takes to accomplish that.
“I have put in work at each position in order to switch between them all,” Smith said. “Catching is my favorite. At that position I feel like I can be the best leader I can be. I have a little more impact on the game vocally and mentally from behind the plate.”
Smith first picked up softball playing in YMCA leagues before she had even started kindergarten. Over the years Smith has come to really appreciate the team-first aspect of the game.
“Softball is a team sport and it takes everyone, not just yourself,” Smith said. “I have been lucky enough to play with some great teammates over the years that have made me the player I am today.”
This season Collinsville was a bit younger than in previous years with only a few upperclassmen on the roster. As a junior, Smith was looked upon to provide a veteran presence.
“I am lucky to have a great group of freshmen and sophomore girls that respond well to me,” Smith said. “They want to be the best they can be and they want me to be the best I can be. It helps a lot when you have a team that is all in and has your back every game.”
Off the field Smith has a great support group with her friends and family.
“My parents and family go above and beyond to be at everything and make sure I have everything I need,” Smith said. “But I would have to say my biggest fan and person that inspires me the most is my Papa Bill. He has more passion for sports than anyone I know and he is always there for me. Win or lose, he is always by my side, and never misses a game.”
Smith has come to appreciate every opportunity that is presented to her and looks to make the most out of every situation. She is thankful for her coaches, teammates, friends, family, and the entire Collinsville community. Last year Smith had a health scare and the community rallied behind her with love and support.
“A mass was found on my thigh and I had to have surgery to have it removed. I missed the beginning part of the season and that was really hard on me,” Smith said. “My teammates and coaches were there with me every step of the way. They worked with me to come back. I wasn’t sure if I was going to be able to play. The emotions were hard to deal with but I was able to fight through it and bounce back to finish the season.”
While Smith is feeling better now, this situation put things in perspective for her and encouraged her to make the most of every opportunity and enjoy the little things.
“You never know if somebody is going to get hurt, have a bad game, or lose the love for the game and not come back,” Smith said. “I have learned to stay true to myself and be the best teammate I can be no matter the situation.”
After high school Smith wants to continue her athletic career in either softball or basketball, major in pre-med, and eventually become an anesthesiologist.
