Profile on CPHS volleyball player, Kennedi Smith

THE WOODLANDS, Texas -- The other day a volleyball question was posed to me I have probably answered 100 times... What are the attributes of a good outside hitter? Because of this, I have developed a new way to combat such redundancy. Yeah, I'd like to impress you with my knowledge of a position I could never play because I couldn't touch the top of a volleyball net even with the aid of a trampoline. So, be thankful you get the short answer. If you want to know what makes a good outside hitter, go watch College Park's Kennedi Smith and you'll have all your answers.

However, as is the case with all of our local athletes here in Montgomery County, Kennedi is even more impressive out of the athletic arena which is why we made her our Woodlands Online Profile of the Week.

How long have you been playing volleyball?
I've been playing volleyball for about nine years. I started in 2nd grade at the YMCA. When I was little I tried playing many different sports, but I never was that interested in any of them until I saw my older sister playing volleyball. I've played ever since that day and I love it.

What position do you play?
I am a six rotation outside hitter.

What colleges are on your radar screen?
I just recently verbally committed to play at the University of New Hampshire. I really loved the campus and connected with the girls. However, what really sold me were the coaches. Their philosophy and value system was aligned with mine and my family's. After the visit, my parents were comfortable with entrusting the coaches with me being so far away.

What will be your field of study? Why?
I plan to major in Healthcare Management & Policy and I chose this major because I want to be a healthcare advocate. My brother has a congenital heart defect that led to four open heart surgeries. I want to be a champion for other families with similar situations.

Tell us about The Woodlands College Park High School and why you like it there?
CP is a great school. We are like one big family. It's amazing how close everyone gets during sporting events cheering on each other.

Have you enjoyed playing for the Lady Cavaliers?
I love playing for the Lady Cav's! The Coaches are great! Coach Collins is by far one of my favorite coaches. I'm fortunate to have had the opportunity to play for her all four of my high school years. She has helped me on and off the court. I really appreciate her being so supportive of me and everyone on the team.

What do you like to do away from school and volleyball?
I enjoy hanging out with friends and spending time with my family. During school and club season, I don't get to do that many activities outside volleyball so when I have the time, I take full advantage of it.

Who is your volleyball role model?
My role model for volleyball is Destinee Hooker. She has achieved so many goals and that has motivated me to be the player I am today.

Describe how supportive your family has been in everything you do in your life.
My family is extremely supportive of me in everything I do. They encourage me to be the best on and off the court. They have taught me to make the right decisions based on our values.

What are three things people don't know about you?
Three things people don't know about me: I have an OCD about even numbers; I have anxiety about being late: and I'm a very picky eater including not liking my food to touch.

The Coach/Player mutual admiration society is complete with Coach Candice Collins' statement regarding her star player...
"Kennedi is an outstanding young woman. She is a strong competitor on the court in that she leads her team and pushes them to do better. She is a six rotation player and makes a huge impact for us at College Park. Off the court, Kennedi is an awesome kid as she has a fun loving personality and great character. Kennedi has worked so hard for all that she has accomplished on and off the court and I couldn't be more proud and happy for her!!"

So, following the 2015-16 school year Kennedi will say goodbye to the Cavaliers and travel 1700 miles to be a Wildcat in the most picturesque state in the union. New Hampshire has the beautiful White Mountains to include Mount Washington. They have arguably the most beautiful lake on the planet in Lake Winnipesaukee. But, what they'll also have in 2016 is one of the best Outside Hitters to ever come out of The Woodlands...our own Kennedi Smith.

Let's just hope the UNH coach has the sense to give her an even numbered uniform. We already know she'll never be late for practice.