Palm Beach 4A-3A girls track and field athlete of the year: Jada Smith, Palm Beach Central senior – Sun Sentinel

2022-06-19 01:32:39 By : Mr. Allen Jiang

Jada Smith, of Palm Beach Central, is a Sun Sentinel track and field player of the year. Picture taken, Tuesday, May 31, 2022. (Michael Laughlin/Sun Sentinel)

Since it was her last season running track at Palm Beach Central, senior Jada Smith was just hoping to go out having fun.

“I just wanted to have fun and enjoy myself,” said Smith, who has signed with Boston University to continue her athletic and academic career. “In the beginning of the year, I was worried about being committed because everyone else was.

“And now I am,” she said. “I am beyond grateful and the rest of the season I just told myself, keep doing what you are doing.”

Smith delivered three personal-best efforts at the Class 4A state track and field meet at James G. Pressly Stadium, Percy Beard Track in Gainesville. She placed third at state in 100-meter dash (11.77) and 200 (24.27) and ninth at state in long jump (17-8 3/4). She was also a member of state champion 4x100 relay.

Smith plans on being a doctor and said Boston University was the best option, especially with a full ride in track. She would like to be a pediatrician.

“Sometimes I got down on myself, but it just made me work hard and get stronger,” said Smith, who also won the 100, and 200 at the county meet in addition to third in the long jump. “[Not being committed] was weighing on me and you could tell. I think it helped me because without the pressure I put on myself, it wouldn’t have enabled me to grow.

“Since I signed, I feel free,” Smith said. “My season highlight has to be breaking 12 [seconds] in the 100. I was close, running low 12s and when I finally ran 11.77, I was relieved.”

Palm Beach Central track coach Shannah Etches said Smith has a love-hate relationship with track and field.

“She loves the intensity and hard work that it takes to compete at such a high level but hates to disappoint the people who have helped her along the way,” Etches said. “Her internal drive and dedication is not only reflected on the track but also in the classroom.

“Jada has worked hard for all her accomplishments but the one she is most proud of is her full scholarship to Boston University where she will continue her track career while majoring in biology,” Etches added. “I’m honored to have been part of her journey thus far and I can’t wait to see the next chapter.”