By Blake Chadwick
For Wichita East senior Anahree Smith, perseverance has become one of the defining traits of who she has been during her career as an East high Blue Ace.
“I would say my biggest strength is keeping my head up,” Smith said. “Even in a bad situation I’m able to keep pushing through.”
Smith first began her track and field journey in eighth grade, when she started throwing shot put. As her high school career progressed, she expanded her skill set and added discus during her freshman year. Since then, she has continued working to refine both events while developing the experience that comes with competing at the varsity level.
Her approach to the sport centers around growth and learning from each opportunity she gets on the field.
“My mindset is focused on growing as an athlete,” Smith said. “When I’m practicing or competing, I like to recognize what I’ve done wrong and, if given the chance, try to fix it.”
Now as a senior, Smith has already felt more of the leadership burden and looks at it as a healthy challenge for her.
“I try to be an example for the younger athletes on the team in whatever way I can,” Smith said.
Looking ahead, Smith’s personal goals remain simple: continue improving and refining her skills wherever she can. At the same time, she hopes the team can achieve one of its biggest goals this season—competing for a state championship.
