Diamond In The Rough: Hayden Smith

Hayden Smith is a multi-sport athlete out of Southern University Laboratory School in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. He is 5’10”, weighs 160 pounds, and is in the class of 2022. Smith plays free safety and cornerback. I got the chance to see Smith play in person and his defense is impressive. He was always running down the ball and I even caught him making a big interception. Smith is on the Baseball team as well at Southern Laboratory and holds a 4.0 gpa.

CHECK OUT HIS HIGHLIGHTS HERE

At what age did you begin playing football and what motivated you to play?

I started playing football when I was around seven years old. Growing up, you go to a lot of high school games and see people that are bigger than you. Hearing the loud crowd also motivates you to play. You see NFL, college players, and people commit to big schools. It ends up being something you want to be apart of.

You’re also on the baseball team at Southern Lab. What’s your position in baseball and how you feel like it helps you on the football field?

I play outfield and catcher in baseball. It’s always good to play more than one sport to stay in shape. You never want to go out for football and overwork yourself as you got out of shape. Travel ball is also good to play.

What’s your favorite thing about your position in football?

As a corner back and safety, you never know what the opponent is doing. It challenges you. You have no control over the widereceiver and their routes.

Do you have any specific goals for this season?

I want to make it to the Superdome and win a championship.

How do you think coaches and teammates would describe you as a player?

They would say I am disciplined. I like to listen to coaches. I am always about learning and studying. My teammates would say I am a behind the scenes type of guy.

What has football taught you about yourself or life?

It has taught me to be patient with myself. It’s also taught me how to be a people person.

What’s your favorite thing about playing football in Louisiana?

Football is big out here. Playing under the lights on Friday nights is a great feeling. The competition is also really big, there are a lot of good teams.

What would you bring to a college team and what are you looking for out of one?

I would bring hard work and ethic. Even in the classroom, I’ll be elevating.

Three words to describe yourself?

Patient, discipline, and studious.

What hobbies are you involved in besides sports?

I like to play video games. I also like to meet up with friends and go out.

I watched you guys play against McKinley High! What do you personally feel like the team needs to work on and what should we expect for the season?

Remembering play calls is a big thing and we need to adjust better on our own. We will be making a big run for the State Championship.