St. Mary’s County Recreation and Parks

The Will Smith Leadership Award recognizes 8^th grade Recreation and Parks Youth Basketball participants that demonstrate excellent character and are leaders among their peers. They have been nominated by their team coach and have provided letters of support from two of their school teachers. R&P staff selects the deserving award winners. During the award presentation on Friday February 19, 2010 at Great Mills High school each recipient received a plaque recognizing their achievement and a basketball signed by Coach Tubby Smith. Coach Smith is Will’s uncle and currently the Head Men’s Basketball coach at the University of Minnesota.

The award is named after William Smith Jr. who suddenly lost his life on September 21, 2008. This tragedy occurred while he was attending Becker College in Worcester Massachusetts.  Will graduated from Great Mills High in 2007 and was a standout athlete there. He participated in the R&P youth basketball program for five years.  Will demonstrated strong leadership during those years and throughout his life.

This is an excellent class of recipients. They should be proud of being recognized for their character and leadership. They also are leaders on their youth sports team which helps in providing a safe and positive environment for all participants.
 

Arthur Shepherd

Recreation Division Manager