Dreyden Smith is a senior at Lakeland High School (LHS). He also plays for the varsity football and baseball team where he plays as running back and outfielder.
“I like football because you see all your hard work throughout the week pay off on Friday nights,” Smith said.
Smith’s favorite memory of football is going down to the playoffs every year.
“Freshman year being pulled up and going down was my favorite memory,” Smith said.
Smith brings so much energy to the team and has a hard work ethic. Not only does he bring energy but also brings aggression, assertiveness, and is dependable for the team, as well as an underlying leader.
When Smith was in seventh grade, he moved from Coeur d’alene to Rathdrum and has lived here and attended LHS since.
Smith has two younger brothers, one in seventh grade and the other in fifth.
His younger brothers look up to him since they play football as well and hope to be like him someday. Smith’s family plays a large role in his football career since they are his biggest supporters.
“They play a huge role because they motivate me and never miss a game and are always there,” Smith said.
In fact, during this year’s homecoming football game Smith’s parents, grandparents, brothers, and more, wore matching t-shirts featuring an outline of Smith on the back with his jersey and number.
While at the football game, Smith’s mom Tina Smith, made a remark after being asked what she thought her son’s best quality was.
“I think his best quality is his heart. He has a really big heart.”
Following high school, Smith would like to become a police officer and attend a police academy.
Smith wants to be a police officer because he wants to make a difference in his community.
“Its a good way to serve your community and protect your loved ones,” Smith said.
However, he has also considered being a collegiate football player.