Sure-handed Jefferson catcher Brittney Smith will continue her softball career in college.
Smith, a middle infielder-turned-catcher who earned the nickname “Brick wall” for her abilities behind the plate, signed a scholarship with Emmanuel College Friday in front of family, friends and coaches.
“I’m a little nervous as far as balancing school and softball, but I’m definitely excited,” Smith said.
Smith was also courted by LaGrange College and Gordon College before deciding on Emmanuel, where she’ll play for coach Rick Sanders.
“She’s just a great kid,” Sanders said. “She comes from a great family. We’re excited to have her.”
Jefferson coach Brad Puckett described Smith as a fierce competitor, one that wasn’t afraid to charge headlong into a wall for a foul ball — even in a summer game.
“She led by example,” Puckett said. “She gave 110 percent. It didn’t matter what the situations was.”
Catcher isn’t Smith’s natural position. In fact, Puckett called her one of the best middle infielders in the state. But Jefferson needed to fill a hole behind the plate a few years ago, and Puckett called on Smith, who took over varsity catching duties her sophomore year.
Smith now expects to move back to the infield in college, more than likely at second base where she feels very comfortable.
“That was actually my primary position before I got switched to catcher,” Smith said.
Smith has already scrimmaged against Emmanuel as a member of her travel ball team, Northwest Connection, and will maintain a busy travel ball schedule with Northwest to prepare for college ball.
“I’ll be playing travel ball,” Smith said. “I haven’t stopped playing since I started.”
