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Smith, a junior forward, led the Indians to the first section championship in school history with a 5-1 win against second-seeded Rye. Smith scored one goal, which turned out to be the game winner, on a power play.
Smith was an offensive machine for the Indians, who scored more than 30 goals this year. But despite the junior’s offensive proficiency, head coach Alex Smith said it was his hustle on defense that helped the most in the playoffs.
“He really stood out I thought during the postseason run because of his back checking,” Alex Smith said. “He really worked hard to get back up the ice and helped in our defensive zone, as well.”
Shawn Smith, who also plays lacrosse, said he has more of an offensive mindset and likes to use his speed to get past defenders. But in the playoffs, he knew his game had to change, so he worked on his defensive skills, too.
“Definitely I think the playoffs was the best all-around play I’ve had,” Shawn Smith said. “We kind of needed all the help we could get. I just wanted to be as much help as possible.”
When he does get a chance to shoot, Smith takes advantage with quick motion packed with power.
“He’s such a strong kid that he really has a really hard blast when he gets close enough to take it,” Alex Smith said. “He certainly helped us out when we needed a goal.”
Shawn Smith has one more season with the Indians, and after these historic playoffs, he has high hopes for his team next year.
“I think we’re definitely returning some great talent. We have great players. We have probably one of the best goalies in the section in Matt Lanza,” Shawn Smith said. “So I think we have a great shot at being one the premier teams in Section 1.”
The Athlete of the Month is chosen by sports reporters and editors at The Daily Voice.
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