Wynne's Smith headed to Lyon

By Ben Cowens
Sun staff writer

WYNNE - Kelsey Smith has been Wynne's starting libero for four years, so when it came time to choose a college, she did what came natural to her - she started digging.
Her exhaustive selection process officially ended in the Wynne High School Gymnasium on Friday when she signed a scholarship offer to play VOLLEYBALL for Lyon College.
Smith was a 4-time all-conference player and a 2010 all-state selection for the Yellowjackets. She posted 328 digs as a senior and is thought to be the school's all-time leader in digs. According to Lyon College coach Ray Green, the team was looking for a libero, and Smith fit the profile.
"That was a spot we were looking to fill," Green said. "We were looking for a solid player that has been a proven leader - even though she's a quiet leader. She has great qualities as a player and a person."
The fit was perfect for Smith as well. She went to Lyon's honors day several weeks ago and fell in love with the school's academic offerings. Smith wants to study chemistry and eventually become a pharmacist. Her visit to the campus made the final decision easy.
"That day I basically decided I wanted to go there," Smith said. "We just had to work everything out with the coach."
Wynne coach Ashley Kennon said Lyon is getting a tough and talented defensive player.
"They're getting an outstanding defensive player," Kennon said. "It's going to be very difficult to replace her next year.
"When the pressure's on, she steps up and gets the job done. You can count on her to stand back there and dig the ball up ... when most players wouldn't."
Green said Smith will have the opportunity to play early in her career if she can earn it. The team does have another libero returning, so it's up to Smith to force her way into the lineup.
"We expect her to battle to get on the court with the returning libero we do have," Green said. "I see good things for her. No promises, though. She has to earn her keep."
For now Smith will finish out her senior year at Wynne, but she'll be ready when it's time to prove herself in college.
"Whenever the hitter goes up on the other side," Smith said, "I like being there and showing people I can get to anything."
She's certainly earned her chance.