Smith Shines as Sole Tri-Varsity Captain

This work ethic helps him stand out in every sport he plays: Brandon received All League Honors twice for his accomplishments as an offensive line- man in football, won 75% of his matches as wrestler, placing seventh at New Englands, and was a three year starter for the Hopkins FAA Championship winning baseball team, batting .513 in his junior campaign.

Smith’s love of sports helped him rise above the competition in his respective sports. “From my days of youth athletics until now, I have always prioritized sports above all else. Throughout my life, I’ve had several influential coaches and mentors who have kept me humble and focused on the path to achieve my goal of being the best athlete I can be.”

Coaches and teammates speak highly of Smith as a leader and teammate. Head Football Coach Tim Phipps explained Smith’s reaction when asked to change positions for the team: “The decision to move to the linebacker position was not Brandon’s. At the start of the season, the coaches felt that this move would benefit the team the most as we were looking to replace Owen Sherman [’19], due to graduation. Brandon immediately made the move and never questioned it. As the season progressed, we were able to develop inside linebackers which allowed us to move Brandon back to the Nose Guard position, a position he felt the most comfortable playing. This helped our defense tremendously and the results were phenomenal as we made it to the championship game.” Evan Alfandre ’21 said, “Brandon is a selfless captain who gives his all for the team every time he steps on the field, whether it is for practice or for games.”

As a captain, Smith brings a level of energy to the team that motivates and inspires his teammates, no matter the sport. Cooper Bucklan ’21, a wrestling teammate, said, “The energy and positivity he brings to practice and meets is contagious and really helps some of the new wrestlers feel comfortable.” Matt Diaz ’23 a football teammate said, “He keeps everyone energized and always brings an unmatched attitude to the team.” Smith embraces his role as captain: “Being a three-sport captain is a tremendous pleasure. I could not be more humbled and honored to lead the group of men and women I call my teammates.” Originally, Smith was slated to play football at Saint Lawrence University, but he also kept his options open in baseball, attending numerous showcases, including the NYBC Top Prospect Showcase, in which he represented the East Coast under Coach Bobby Valentine.

Eventually, Smith chose to play baseball in college, committing to the Division I Sacred Heart University. He will take his determination and his mantra: “I’ve always told myself to do today what others won’t so tomorrow I can do what others can’t, and that has driven me to work to become the best athlete and teammate possible.”