By Charles Kruzits
Phillylacrosse.com, Posted 7/30/11
Recent Wissahickon graduate Alex Smith (defender) has committed to play Division I lacrosse at Duke University as a recruited walk-on.
Smith missed most of the 2011 season due to a broken collarbone and returned near the end of the year for the Trojans, who went 12-7 and advanced to the District 1 playoffs. Smith, a captain, was named US Lacrosse Academic All-American and also was a First Team Suburban One American Conference pick as a junior.
Smith, who played one year of club lacrosse for Ultimate Goal, was on the Distinguished Honor Roll every semester at Wissahickon.
Duke coach Kerstin Kimel, a Haverford High alum, was a major reason Smith chose the Blue Devils.
“She was very encouraging and was definitely a factor in my decision to choose Duke,” Smith said.
Another strong draw to the Raleigh campus was the prestigious academic reputation.
“I chose Duke because it offered challenging academics, as well as excellent sports programs,” she said.
Along with Smith, coach Kimel has landed Episcopal Academy midfielder Taylor Trimble and Hill School attack Callie Francis.
“When I met with Coach Kimel and she talked to me about the possibility of walking on and being part of the Duke lacrosse team,” Smith said. “I felt fortunate that she was so welcoming and included me right away as part of the incoming class.”
Smith is anticipating the start of her college career. Some of her future goals include: “playing to the best of my ability, continuing to improve my skills, and fulfilling any position needed for the success of the team.”
