Listen Here
By Evan Kreais and Emmanuel Mogbolu
Stephanie Smith, a student-athlete at UF, took on the challenge of being a dual-sport athlete, competing in both volleyball and track during the fall semester, balancing the demands of both sports, and embracing the opportunity as an athlete and person with remarkable dedication and resilience.
Smith initially committed to Findlay with Plans to play volleyball, a sport she competed in for 11 years. However, she recently developed an interest in track.
While in the middle of volleyball season, Smith reached out to Coach Fisher, the track team’s jumps coach, to discuss joining the track team. After a meeting, Smith quickly found herself balancing both sports.
As a dual-sport athlete, Smith faces challenges requiring sacrifices. She follows the volleyball team’s lifting schedule and practices for both sports every day, doubling the time commitment compared to the average student-athlete. She also chose volleyball as her primary sport to focus on when conflicts arise.
“It keeps me in line, out of trouble, and from doing things I don’t need to be doing,” Smith said.
Despite the demanding schedule, Smith embraces the challenge with determination. Her typical day starts early with a workout or practice, followed by a full class schedule and ends with another practice or team meeting.
“It’s a fun challenge, definitely very rewarding for how much work I put in,” Smith said.
Facing difficulties as a dual-sport athlete, Smith tackles them head-on. She knows the road ahead won’t be easy but views every practice, game and meet as a chance to grow as an athlete and person.
