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07/29/2021 12:00 AMAddie Smith had big expectations for herself after joining the Guilford softball program as a freshman. Addie put together an excellent freshman season that saw her earn the starting catcher’s job and garner All-SCC Second Team honors for the Grizzlies.
Addie impressed all season long as she led Guilford in slugging percentage (.720), triples (3), and RBI (12) this spring. She also posted a .380 batting average and didn’t commit a single error in 103 chances behind the plate.
Addie has been playing softball since she was six. Addie was inspired to start playing after watching her sister Jessica compete in the sport.
“I grew up watching my big sister play, and I immediately knew that was going to be my favorite sport. Ever since then, I’ve had big dreams and goals for my softball career,” says Addie. “One thing I am very proud of was being named the starting varsity catcher my freshman year at Guilford High School and going on to have a solid season. I made the All-SCC Second Team, and it was a great feeling to be on the field with such amazing teammates.”
Guilford finished its 2021 campaign with a record of 7-11 and came up one win shy of qualifying for the Class L State Tournament. While Addie felt disappointed the team missed out on the playoffs, she was happy with how hard the Grizzlies worked throughout the year.
“I feel this season went very well, even though we didn’t get the outcome we wanted by not qualifying for playoffs. We had great coaches who were always there for us and supported us through everything,” Addie says. “Overall, we all worked really hard and improved so much as a team in such a short period of time. I am very excited to get back on the field next season with my team.”
Even though Guilford didn’t reach the postseason, Addie believes that one of the major victories for her team was staying healthy in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. Addie and her teammates feared that the season could be shut down at any moment, but maintained a positive mindset the entire time.
“I feel throughout the season everyone had that worry of a possible quarantine and not being able to play for two weeks,” says Addie. “Although I did feel our team did a great job with the COVID-19 protocols, and everyone stayed safe and healthy all season.”
Head Coach Meghan Wiese knew that Addie was going to make significant contributions after taking the reins as Guilford’s catcher. Wiese is excited to see Addie continue developing her skills on the diamond during the next three seasons.
“Addie had an impressive start to what will be a successful career in a Guilford uniform. She started every game behind the plate and kept each pitcher focused and relaxed,” Wiese says. “Earning All-SCC honors as a freshman is a huge compliment and proves the kind of player she is. Addie works hard and is determined to get better and better each and every day. It’s truly admirable, and I’m excited to see what the future holds for her.”
Addie says that playing for Coach Wiese makes her want to get better every day. Addie and her teammates have adopted Wiese’s attitude, and she feels that approach pays dividends for the Grizzlies.
“Coach Wiese is someone who I could always go to and rely on whenever I have a question about softball or even school,” says Addie, who is also a member of the Guilford field hockey program. “She is always competitive, motivating, supporting and, overall, a great coach and role model. Her, ‘Never give up’ attitude is truly reflected within her coaching strategies, which keeps our team strong and together.”
Addie enjoys getting to games early, so she can warm up with her teammates and get in a few extra practice reps. Addie attends PIT Hitting in Niantic on a year-round basis in order to improve her game.
“I love working hard in the offseason and improving my skills each day to become a better player and person,” Addie says.
This summer, Addie is playing travel softball for the Shoreline Sting. Addie has attended college showcases and clinics with the team.
“This sport has given me so many amazing opportunities to meet new people and travel to such incredible places, all while playing the sport I love,” says Addie.