“ It is exciting,” Smith said. “Getting a chance to play at the next level is a dream come true. I have worked hard all of my life just to play college ball. It is going to be a fun time.”
The opportunity to make an immediate impact and the atmosphere at Southern Union is what caught Smith’s attention right away.
“My dad and I went down there on an invitation from Coach Jordan,” Smith said. “I loved it there. I felt like I was at home. I felt great. I loved the campus and the field is awesome, I just wanted to go somewhere I could make an impact right away. I feel like Southern Union is the best for me and my family.”
Watching former players sign baseball scholarships is what inspired Smith to work hard and follow in their footsteps. Smith said he hopes that will be a good example for the kids that are now watching him.
“Ever since I was a little kid I’ve always looked up to the guys that signed to play college ball,” Smith said. “Now, I am in their shoes and all these young kids are looking up to me. It feels good to have kids looking up to you. You can’t let them down.”
Smith thanked his family for all the support that they have given up through out the years. He also thanked Coach Slaten for making his dream, become a reality.
“If it wasn’t for Coach Slaten I for sure wouldn’t be here right now,” Smith said. “He has worked with me ever since I have been in middle school playing ball for him. If it wasn’t for him, today wouldn’t be possible.”
This season, Smith led the Tigers (22-11) to the second round of the AHSAA playoffs.
Slaten was happy about Smith’s opportunity to play baseball.
“ When one of our players sign to the next level it is a happy day,” Slaten said. “Childersburg baseball is always happy when one of our players go to the next level. Chase is very deserving; he has worked really hard. Baseball has been a very big part of his life and I am glad to see him get this opportunity. I am happy for his daddy. His dad and I are as good as friends can be - we have been for along time. We played college ball together, we played high school ball together. I know he is happy, I know his mom is happy. I am just happy for their whole family.”
The centerfielder didn’t only got it done on the diamond, but excelled in the classroom.
“I’m a hard worker,” Smith said. “I love being out there with the guys working hard. When it comes to books I make all A’s. I have a 4.0 GPA (grade point average). They can expect a hard working athlete and a smart young man.”
