The spirit of a true competitor is fueled by the desire to be the best. No one likes to lose, but if you’re a competitive person, it will be especially disappointing to see your opponents win.  

So it is for Pocola senior Kylee Smith, who has experienced both the thrill of victory and the agony of defeat.

A member of the basketball and softball teams, Smith has been in the heat of the action. As a junior, Pocola won the Class 2A basketball state championship and the Class 3A slowpitch crown. This fall, Smith and the top-ranked Lady Indians watched as their opponents celebrated a 2-0 victory in the Class 2A fastpitch softball finale.

“It was heartbreaking to watch Morrison celebrate in my last fastpitch game in high school,” Smith said. “That moment put a chip on my shoulder, making me more determined to do whatever it takes to repeat in basketball and slowpitch seasons.”

It’s the self-motivation that makes Smith a leader among her teammates.

“She does the little things that doesn’t get talked about but make a huge difference in winning and losing, on and off the court. We see it in practice and games,” said Pocola girls’ basketball coach Shane Amos. “Dedicated, educated and competitive are the traits that make Kylee invaluable to our program.”  

On the basketball court, her defense is solid and consistent, in addition to scoring points. Playing softball, Smith handles the rocket shots at third base with ease, while delivering blasts off the bat producing runs on the scoreboard. 

In the classroom, including Smith’s favorite subject, math, her report card is straight A’s, as she refuses to accept anything but her best efforts.

“I’ve always approached things as the underdog, willing to prove myself and earn my chances for victory,” she said. “Most important to me is to be a positive influence, because you never know who is watching. I want to be a role model in everything I do and let my actions help others find joy and happiness while bringing glory to God.”

Following the end of her high school career at Pocola, Smith will attend the University of Central Oklahoma, pursuing a career in communications and business.

“I want to pour myself into people and help others find happiness and success,” smiled Smith while voicing her game plan. “But, there’s still work to do here at Pocola so we can win gold again. No excuses!”