(Kimballton) Shocked and devastated were two words Rachel Smith used to describe her emotions upon learning her softball career might be over.
The Northwest Missouri State senior pitcher and Exira-EHK alum is faced with many unknowns surrounding her future. The Art Education major is on track to graduate and join the workforce, but an additional year of softball with the Bearcats is also a possibility. She’d love to come back and play, but there are a lot of question marks. ”
Smith was enjoying a solid senior season. The team had won three of her last four starts. She points to a 13 strikeout game in a 2-1 win over Minnesota-Duluth on February 21st as one of her most exciting outings of the year. “I was having a pretty good year so I’m pretty disappointed. The team was just starting to figure everything out and come together.”
Whether it’s this year or next year, whenever Smith does walk away from softball it’ll be a difficult time. She’s been pitching for 15 years of her life. “Oh my gosh. Anyone that’s been involved with sports knows what athletic and extra-curriculars can do for a person. It’s been amazing. I can’t thank softball enough. It’s made me who I am.”
Smith gives a tip of the cap to her mom Jana as the best catcher ever and says she’s still been throwing and trying to stay in shape in case she does continue her playing career. Smith’s full interview is available below:
