Montrose Athlete of the Week: Jordan Smith

By Katelyn Spellman

Meteor Chronicle

For Montrose junior Jordan Smith, family has always played a vital role in his golf career. His parents introduced him to the game when he was six years old and along with his grandparents, continue to mentor and support him today.

 “Ever since I was a little kid, my parents have encouraged me to golf,” Smith says. “Both of them golf, so I play with them a lot, and they help me with my swing.”

Smith’s familial support benefits his performance on the golf course and has enabled him to have a successful season thus far.

 “[Smith] is fortunate enough to have two supporting parents and grandparents who will go out their way to see him play,” Coach Mike Zuba says. “They furnish him with any needed extra support that helps him reach his goals.”

For his solid play throughout the season and his second place finish in the Irving Jackman Memorial Tournament, Smith has been named Athlete of the Week.

Son of John Smith and Kathy Pierce of Montrose, Smith has played “extremely well” this season for the league-leading Meteor golf team and has emerged as a key team member and leader, according to Zuba.

 “[Smith] is one of the mainstays in the line-up and can be counted on to perform at the highest level each match,” Zuba said.

A strong work ethic and dedication to the game have helped spur Smith’s success this season. He is participating in strength training in order to improve his swing speed and spends approximately 10 hours a week outside of daily, after-school practices at the golf course.

 “[Smith] golfs all summer long and is always at the course,” teammate Casey O’ Reilly, a junior, said. “He’s really committed.”

Smith’s hard work and dedication paid off on Aug. 24 when he captured second place at the Jackman Tournament, held at Scranton Municipal Golf Course, with a score of 74. Having played the course prior to the tournament, he felt confident in his ability to fare well at the tournament.

 “I’ve played at [Scranton Municipal Golf Course] before and shot a 74, which is a good score,” said Smith. “I set a goal for the tournament of a 74, and I got it.”

As the season progresses, he hopes to continue his success in the playoffs and secure a spot at regionals.

 “I made it to districts last season, so I want to improve upon that,” Smith said. “I’ve been practicing more and working harder.”

At press time, the golf team is 10-1.

Athlete of the Week is sponsored by Doug and Cindy Lattner of McDonald’s in Montrose.