By By KEVIN TRAVIS
Sports Editor
BELHAVEN — It’s a short walk from first base to the pitcher’s mound, but the adjustment between the two positions is a long journey.
The selfless Tess Smithwick, a true team player, is in the process of making that journey. The Pungo Christian senior has been the team’s top pitcher, taking over for the graduated and former star Brinkley Johnson (now playing at Pfeiffer), while also playing some at her natural position, first base. The Raiders needed a pitcher, and Smithwick was quick to step into the circle.
“It’s been hard, but I’ve done the best I can,” Smithwick said. “I just have to work hard and keep on doing it.”
Smithwick’s coach, Melody Jo Williams, a former standout first baseman at Mattamuskeet High School, has been thrilled with Smithwick’s play and, more importantly, her attitude.
“She’s an amazing player and an amazing person,” Williams said. “She definitely won me over.
“I trust her. I trust what she’s doing on the field and off the field.”
While the pitching has been hit or miss early in the season, Smithwick’s bat has been on fire. After an admittedly slump season a year ago, Smithwick has found her groove again.
The senior is hitting a scorching .472 to lead the Raiders.
“I’m doing better than I have been,” the modest Smithwick said. “Last year I was in a slump, but I think I’m out of it now.”
Smithwick doesn’t care what kinds of stats she puts up this year. Her goal is a simple one.
“I want to win,” Smithwick said.
While the Raiders are off to a 1-6 start, Smithwick believes her team is capable of making a run. She said it boils down to the players putting in the effort.
“Everybody just has to get some confidence and want it,” Smithwick said. “Everybody has their head down and they think that we can’t do it, but if everybody thinks we can do it, we can do it. I know we can.”
Sports have played an instrumental part in Smithwick’s life. She’s participated in softball, basketball and volleyball for a number of years.
“Basketball and softball have been my life,” said Smithwick, who has been on numerous WDN All-Area teams throughout her prep career.
The affable senior said her parents, Gilbert and Cindy Smithwick, have played a big part in her athletic career.
“They mean a lot to me,” she said. “They’ve pushed me in all my sports.”
Smithwick, who would love to play college softball, said her favorite position is first base. What does it take to be a good first baseman?
“You just have to catch the ball,” Smithwick said. “That’s the main thing.”
Smithwick is hoping her final season of sports at Pungo will be a special one. She’s not shy in saying that she’s not ready to move on just yet.
“I don’t want to leave,” Smithwick said. “I’ll tell anybody that.”
Williams and Pungo would love to keep somebody like Smithwick around for as long as possible.