BRINGING GRIT TO THE SOCCER FIELD: JOY SMITH’S SOCCER CAREER AT WARTBURG

DANIKA RADEMACHER, KNIGHT WIRE GUEST WRITER

Joy Smith is a senior forward on the Wartburg women’s soccer team from Polk City, IA. She has been a four-year starter who has made tremendous impacts on the field. 

Smith began competing in soccer when she was 6. When she was younger, she played multiple positions; however, in the fourth grade, she was placed at the forward position and never looked back. 

Soccer helped Smith be able to step out of her comfort zone. 

“Soccer has helped me gain confidence off the field. I am a very shy person and playing soccer has helped me to speak with people I do not know very well,” said Smith. 

Tiffany Pins, head women’s soccer coach, said she knew Joy was a perfect fit for the Wartburg women’s soccer team. 

“What has made Joy stand out is her ability to play so fearlessly and her work ethic on the field. She never stops playing as hard as she can,” said Pins. 

Smith leads by statistics as well as by example. In her freshman year, Smith scored 6 goals and had 2 assists in 20 games throughout the season. In her sophomore year, Smith nearly doubled her goals and recorded 11 goals and 7 assists in 21 games. In Smith’s junior year, COVID-19 restricted season to only seven games in the conference. These restrictions did not stop Smith from dominating on the field, as she scored 3 goals with 1 assist. 

As Smith’s senior season came to an end on November 13 against Wisconsin-La Crosse, she had led the team in goals during the 2021 season, recording a team high of 12 goals along with 2 assists in the 20 games for regular and post-season. The team ended their season with a record of 15-4-1.  

“I have had amazing coaches, teammates and family that have all played a huge role in supporting me in different ways,” said Smith. 

Smith’s attitude on and off the field has helped her strive in life and relationships. 

“Joy is a kind person who really brings a lot of fun to our team atmosphere,” said Pins. 

Smith was also described as having tremendous grit and always playing with passion. 

“She is an individual who always gives her all, no matter what. She is a great person on and off the field, and brings positive energy wherever she goes,” said third-year goalie Lily Kallenbach.