Athlete of the Week: Grace Smith ’22

When did you start playing hockey?  

I started skating when I was just 3 years old, and I joined my first hockey team at the age of 4! My dad and older brother played hockey, so they got me into it as soon as I was old enough.  

Why St. Lawrence to continue your athletic career?  

When I was in the recruitment process, I wanted to find a school that would allow me to play hockey at a competitive level while still being able to study on a pre-health track. Some coaches discouraged me from doing this, but that wasn’t the case with SLU. When I visited, I immediately fell in love with the campus, and everyone was so welcoming. I just knew that it was where I was meant to be, and that has stayed true throughout my time here! 

What are you looking forward to this season?   

We’re really fortunate to be able to play and have a game schedule this season, as most teams can’t say the same. While there is so much that is out of our control, we can control how we absorb every moment and make the most out of what we have. I’m looking forward to every opportunity to be on the ice and in the weight room with my teammates because every second with them is to be treasured after being apart for so long! 

How has playing been with COVID restrictions?  

It has honestly been really difficult, but we are making it work! We always wear masks, including when we are on the ice, and we get screened into the rink every day. There are a lot of adjustments that we have had to get used to, but we’re making the most out of the new normal. Like I said before, we’re just lucky to be able to play, so we’re willing to make sacrifices to get time together!  

What’s been your favorite part about St. Lawrence?  

I think that if I had to choose just one thing, then I would say that my favorite part about St. Lawrence is the friendships and connections that I’ve made. Laurentians are some pretty extraordinary people, and I love how everyone has their own passions and interests. There are so many people that want to see you succeed and that feels so uplifting.