Sarasota Athlete of the Week: 03.02.17

Terrionna Smith is a sophomore at Sarasota Military Academy, but she plays on the Booker High softball team because SMA does not have one. Smith plays first base and is a powerful hitter. As of Feb. 27, Smith held a .579 batting average with more than half of her hits going for extra bases, including a grand slam in the Tornadoes' 24-3 win over The Out-of-Door Academy on Feb. 23. 

How long have you been playing softball?

I've been playing since I was 7 years old. When I first tried out for softball, I thought it would be like a cheerleading thing. When I went out there and saw a whole bunch of dirt, I was like "No, I don't want to try out for this!" Then I got into it, and I started loving it. 

What appeals to you about softball?

It's not a girly-girl sport. I love to get dirty. 

What is your best skill on the field?

Hitting. I'm a power hitter. I love to hit. It feels good.

What is your favorite softball memory?

In my second season playing softball, I was still really shy (at the plate). My coach told me, "You can do it!" After he told me that, I got my first home run. I was so happy.

What is your favorite food?

Pizza. I like the triple meat, with bacon and turkey and sausage. 

What hobbies do you have?

I actually always continue playing softball outside of school and practice. I just love playing. I do running drills, I run 'suicides.' I work out a lot, too.  

What is a random fact about you?

When I'm at home, I love to do homework. People don't understand. Homework is the key to everything. It keeps your grades on point, and that is what you need to succeed. 

What is the best of piece of advice you have been given?

To always do your best, no matter what. Someone is always watching you. You can do it. 

When did you laugh the hardest?

When my sister (Shaterria 'Cheerio' Smith) sat in this chair. My family and I knew it was broken, but she didn't. She sat in it and it fell, and so did she. We just started laughing so hard. 

Finish this sentence: "Terrionna Smith is..."

... The most energetic person you will ever meet. I love to make people laugh, even when they're down. I love to pick them up. I don't want to see anybody feeling down. That's not me. I hate to see it.