SOFTBALL: Bree Smith signs to play at Haskell

by Apr 29, 2014SPORTS di-ne-lv-di-yi0 comments

As her father, Jay Hill, and mother, Frances Smith, look on, Bree Smith signs a letter of intent on Monday, April 28 to play softball next season at Haskell Indian Nations University. (SCOTT MCKIE B.P./One Feather photos)

As her father, Jay Hill, and mother, Frances Smith, look on, Bree Smith signs a letter of intent on Monday, April 28 to play softball next season at Haskell Indian Nations University. (SCOTT MCKIE B.P./One Feather photos)

By SCOTT MCKIE B.P.

ONE FEATHER STAFF

Bree Smith, a member of the Cherokee Lady Braves softball team for four years, signed a letter of intent on Monday, April 28 to play softball next season at Haskell Indian Nations University. “It feels amazing,” she said.

“I have dreamt about this since I was a little girl.  I never game up.  I just had faith and hope, and my dream is finally coming true.  I get to go pitch at Haskell in the fall, and I can’t wait to see where this goes.”

At Haskell, Smith plans to study elementary education, and then she plans to attend Western Carolina University to pursue a master’s degree in Cherokee language. She was named to the Smoky Mountain All-Conference softball team her junior and senior years.

“I’m very proud of her,” said Bree’s mother, Frances Smith.  “I see that it’s a perfect opportunity for her.  I know that she will do well, and she’s going to excel out there.”

Bree Smith (seated center) is shown with her team and coaches.

Bree Smith (seated center) is shown with her team and coaches.

Shown (left-right) standing are Jay Hill, Kiri Hill, Frances Smith; sitting - Loretta Bolden and Bree Smith.

Shown (left-right) standing are Jay Hill, Kiri Hill, Frances Smith; sitting – Loretta Bolden and Bree Smith.