Athlete Profile: Kelsey Smith

After landing on the Marinette & Oconto Conference honorable mention team in her junior volleyball season, Suring High School’s Kelsey Smith is hoping to achieve similar success in her senior season, while also trying to soak up all the memories she can.

Smith has helped the Eagles to a 1-1 start through the first two weeks of the season.

In a season-opening match against Lena on Sept. 17, Smith had a team-leading nine attack kills for the Eagles.

Smith had five total kills in a M&O setback to Niagara on Sept. 22.

Q: When did your interest in volleyball begin?

A: My interest in volleyball began during my freshman year playing on the freshman team, with teammates that I am very close to. From the van rides to games to playing on the court, they have made me a better player and teammate.

Q: What is your favorite part about the volleyball season?

A: My favorite part of the volleyball season is honestly all of it. I enjoy every game I am able to play and practice with my teammates.

Q: A few weeks into the season now, what kind of things does the team need to improve on?

A: We, as a team, need to work on defense. Our passing is not where we would like it to be, and we find our setters having to run for the ball.

Q: Do you have any individual goals you’re hoping to accomplish this fall?

A: My goal is to do/be the best I can. It’s my last season — I don’t want to leave with regret of not having enough fun.

Q: As a senior, how do you balance being a leader for your team and trying to enjoy your final season?

A: Without knowing what to expect with the schedule of the season, I try to always make the most out of practice. I try to make it fun for the underclassmen so they enjoy the sport as much as I do, yet push them to do their best to improve their ability.

Q: Do you have any rituals you go through to get ready for a match?

A: I try to make myself the least nervous I can be, redirect my energy. I like to think about the positives and watch successful plays.

Q: What’s your favorite memory of competing on the Suring volleyball team?

A: My favorite memory was junior year when everything started to click for me as a player. My hits were getting harder and more controlled; it was a great feeling.

Q: Favorite TV show, movie and musical artist?

A: TV show — “Heartland.” Movie — “A Christmas Prince.” Musical artist — Dan and Shay.

Q: Name one thing about yourself that not many people know.

A: I am deathly afraid of snakes. When I work with my dad (Jess) surveying, I always carry a shovel with me in the woods. No matter what else he has me bring, there is always a shovel.

Q: What’s the greatest piece of advice you have ever been told?

A: “You won’t know if they cut the season short, so play every game like it is your last.” — Dad.

Q: What are some things you hope to accomplish after graduating high school?

A: I hope to graduate college and have a degree in elementary education.

AT A GLANCE

Athlete: Kelsey Smith

Sport: Volleyball

Positions: Outside hitter, strong side defense

School: Suring High School

Year: Senior