Senior outside hitter Emerie Smith has grown up in the Putnam City North volleyball program, but she says the person who pushed her the most never wore a Panthers jersey: her mom. “My mom inspires me. She is the most hardworking, genuine, kind person I know and is an incredible role model not only for me, but for everyone in our life,” Smith said.
Smith, a 12th grader and vice president of her class, also serves as president of NHS at Putnam City North. Her favorite subject is English, and she credits the classroom for helping her communicate and connect with the people who matter most to her.
On the court, Smith said the best part of varsity volleyball has been the relationships built through long practices, bus rides and tight matches. “I enjoy the friendships that I’ve made these past few years of playing volleyball the most,” she said. Those friendships extend beyond her class; “I would honestly say that all the seniors that graduated last year left a really big impression on me, as well as my underclassmen teammates,” Smith said.
She said her team’s balance between joy and focus is a key to the Panthers’ identity. “I love how my team and teammates are able to both have fun, but also focus when it’s necessary,” Smith said. One of the voices helping keep things light — and loud — is teammate Demy (Deny) Howard. Asked which teammate is the most vocal and keeps everyone laughing, Smith answered simply: “Deny Howard.”
Athletics have shaped how Smith handles challenges well beyond a tight fifth set. “Athletics has taught me patience, commitment, endurance, and teamwork,” she said. She pointed to Bishop Guinnes as one of the toughest opponents North has faced. “Bishop Guinness was the hardest they’re a good team and have great chemistry,” Smith said.
Serving is one area where Smith blends consistency with appreciation for her teammates’ flair. “For myself I prefer a standing serve just because that’s my most consistent serve but whenever I see one of my teammates jump serve, it’s always very satisfying to watch,” she said.
Away from volleyball, Smith said she spends time with family and friends and enjoys painting, a hobby that gives her a different canvas for creativity. As her senior year unfolds, she carries lessons from her mother, her teammates and the Panthers program into the classroom, the court and whatever comes next.
