Coach Joshua Smith is set to take the reins of the Carroll County High School football program. He's gearing up for a season that's not just about touchdowns, but about modeling integrity and sportsmanship on and off the field.
The first-time head coach has played against Carroll County during his high school years. He recalled the feeling of community support and the sea of black and yellow filling the stands when his home high school in Frankfort walked onto Panther field during district competition. That experience and the community support are part of the reason he was drawn here.
“I thought it was attractive because of the type of athletes here. Carroll County can be built correctly and compete at a high level each year,” he said with an air of determination.
“Coach Smith is champing at the bit to get started working with our team which is an early testament of his competitiveness and work ethic," said Athletic Director Scott Anderson. "We are very excited about the future of our football program and can't wait until the season kicks off."
Smith has coached defensive and offensive lines at Frankfort and Shelby County before taking an associate head coach position at Sayre in Lexington. Before he became a coach he played Rugby in Germany.
He encouraged anyone with an interest in football to join them for practice, which will likely start at the end of May or early June. After the dead period the team will play 7-on-7 and host a three day camp in July for the players.
“I want to give them structure and communicate to these kids so they know they have coaches they can rely on,” Smith said, noting he strives to develop a family atmosphere among his players. “We have to build this program within the lives of the kids or it won’t be sustained.”
Smith said he encourages his players to be multi-sport athletes. Hailing from Frankfort High School, Smith said he can relate to the need and desire for students to play multiple sports.
He has attended baseball and softball games as well as open cheerleading tryouts. Smith, who looks the part of football and rugby player, said he intends to be visible in the community and his team will be involved in the community as well.
“This is a new team and a new opportunity for everybody who wants to be involved,” Smith said. “You’ve got to give it a chance. Everybody has a clean slate.”
The U.S. Army veteran said he will focus on structure, clear communication, servant leadership and building relationships with the team, the community and the student body as a whole.
“We want them to be the best young men and women they can be,” he said, adding that “football is applicable to all aspects of life and can help you understand how to thrive in intense situations.”
Coach Smith said he is still working on the staff, but it will be a blended staff of new and familiar faces.
“You’re going to see a different Carroll County team this year,” he said.