Lauren Smith is named athlete of the week

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Mt. Zion girls’ soccer coach Earl Simmonds didn’t nominate a team captain because he didn’t want any of his players to get caught up in having a title.

He wanted a leader to emerge and freshman Lauren Smith has done that.

“She just took the role based on her leadership,” Simmonds said. “With her being so humble and willing to help a teammate out, when a teammate makes a mistake she doesn’t get upset. She encourages them to try harder. She just naturally became the team captain.”

And even though Smith hasn’t officially been given the title, it is understood throughout the team.

“I still haven’t named her the team captain but whenever she talks everyone listens,” Simmonds said. “That is kind of what you want from a team captain. Lauren is very mature for her age.”

As a result of Simmonds’ coaching philosophy and Smith’s leadership, the Lady Bulldogs are currently 7-2.

Smith, who plays forward and center midfielder, leads the team in scoring and draws most of her success from participating in club soccer.

“She brings that experience to the team which makes all of the girls better,” Simmonds said.