By Jason Avery
News-Times Staff
Trey Smith spent much of his senior season wreaking havoc in opposing backfields.
Thanks to that ability to disrupt offenses, the Strong standout will get the opportunity to continue his career at the collegiate level.
On Wednesday, Smith signed with Henderson State.
"I just feel blessed for being able to continue my career and play the game that I love," Smith said.
Smith added that the Reddies began to take notice after the Bulldogs' season had concluded.
"They started coming around in the middle of December," Smith said. "They came to the school and we've been talking since then."
A two-way standout for the Bulldogs, Smith said Henderson State wants him to play at defensive end.
However, Smith played at several spots during his senior year, and that versatility could come into play should a need arise.
"It prepped me well because I feel like I can play more than one position if they want me to do that," Smith said.
Although the Bulldogs missed the playoffs, Smith had a terrific senior campaign, finishing with 14 sacks and 75 tackles en route to being tabbed as an All-Conference selection.
Presently, Smith is getting ready for the end of Strong's basketball season.
The Bulldogs will play their final home game and cap their regular season tonight against Rison.
With the postseason looming, Smith is hoping the Bulldogs can have a lengthy stay.
"I want to make a run in the state tournament," Smith said.
Smith, who said he wants to major in business and focus on accounting at Henderson State, said the key to his success on the gridiron is something not many people get to see.
"Hard work during the summer," Smith said.