Ryan Smith Receives September 2022 New Jersey’s Heartland Hero Award
Image of Ryan Smith above provided by Press of Atlantic City.
Ryan Smith has gone the distance for 12 years as the head coach of the Egg Harbor Township High School (EHTHS) Boys Track and Field team, creating the top team in the area and one of the best programs in South Jersey. For his commitment to his community and family, we are proud to announce Ryan Smith as our September 2022 Heartland Hero.
The EHTHS Boys Track and Field team’s accomplishments under Coach Smith’s leadership include:
- 2013 New Jersey Group IV Indoor State Champions
- 2013, 2017, 2019, 2022 South Jersey Group IV Outdoor Sectional Champions
- 2012, 2013, 2015, 2016, 2018, 2019 South Jersey Group IV Indoor Sectional Champions
- 7 straight Atlantic County Team Championships
- 6 straight Cape Atlantic League American Division Championships
While Coach Smith has an amazing record with his team, it’s the support and encouragement he provides to his students that makes him a true champion. On the field and in the school, his charisma and positive attitude have earned him the respect of countless students, teachers and parents over the years. During every game, as well as during every practice, Coach Smith gives his undivided attention to the students on his team, fostering a fun and inclusive environment.
Coach Ryan Smith stated, “I would like to thank every athlete that I’ve ever coached. My only hope was to provide a positive experience in the sport and make them a better person. I would also like to thank everyone who has helped me along the way in all aspects of being a head coach.”
After 12 successful seasons, Smith decided to step down as the EHTHS Eagles Boys Track and Field head coach. Smith saw the value in spending more time with his family and the opportunity to attend and coach his sons’ games. Coach Smith has two sons, Clayton and Bennett, who both play various sports including baseball, basketball, flag football, street hockey, and soccer.
“Obviously, getting to know him closely and getting to know the type of person he is, he’s very family-oriented,” EHTHS Athletic Director Kevin Rutledge stated. “His boys are getting older, and he wants to be as good as a coach to them as he has been to the family here at EHT. Anyone can understand and appreciate that.”
“We have a lot of respect for the time and effort he has put in here. … It’s one of those things where you hate to lose a person of his abilities and talents. But at the end of the day, he will still be around here and helping out the community wherever he can because that is the type of person he is.”
For the mentorship he has provided to numerous students, as well as the inspiration he continues to be for the region, New Jersey’s Heartland is proud to honor Ryan Smith as the September 2022 Heartland Hero.
While New Jersey’s Heartland is filled with hidden gems, its biggest treasures are the people who make the region a great place to live, work, play, and raise a family. All Heartland Heroes receive a Heartland Heroes Certificate and Gift Basket in recognition of their award. To nominate your Heartland Hero, visit http://njheartland.org/live/heartland-heroes-nomination-form/.
Source:
The Press of Atlantic City
