Hot Springs World Class High School senior shortstop Natalee Smith is a goal-oriented athlete who is set to graduate a year early.
Head coach Alicia Ussery said she would always be cheering for Smith as she accomplishes every goal she sets her mind to, noting Smith is incredibly resilient and driven to be her best.
Smith recently met with The Sentinel-Record to give people a glimpse into what she is like beyond the diamond. The right-handed hitter also plays centerfield.
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What do you like most about playing softball?
I think the team; I think just making connections with people that I would not make outside of this field. It is pretty cool.
What is your most memorable moment playing softball, even going back to when you were a kid?
Last year we had an away game and we played duck, duck, goose on the way back. We just leaped over seats and everything trying to get each other.
Do you have any hobbies or interests outside of sports?
I am a choir president and I have to plan events for that. I work and I also play volleyball here too.
Are you a morning person or a night owl?
I am a morning person and night, I am both.
If you could hang out with any famous person, past or present, for a day, who would that be?
Elvis Presley
If you could visit any place in the world, where would you go?
Paris
What is your favorite restaurant and favorite meal?
Taco Bell. I like shrimp Alfredo.
What one person is your biggest inspiration?
Probably Mr. Travis. He was my English teacher. He helped me through a lot.
What is the last book you read or are currently reading?
"The Crucible," it is really good.
What is the best piece of advice you have ever received?
Today is new, yesterday was in the past and tomorrow is the new future.
What is the last television series that you binge-watched, or are currently watching?
"All American"
Who is your celebrity crush?
Do not have one.
What is your all-time favorite movie?
"The Notebook"
Who are some of your favorite social media influencers, or favorite accounts that you follow?
Brooklyn and Bailey
What band or musical artist have you been listening to lately?
Sissa
Name something about you that most people would be surprised to learn.
I am a quiet person.
What is your biggest pet peeve?
Scratching paper, I hate it.
What is your favorite class in school?
My English class.
What are your plans for after graduation and what type of career do you plan to pursue?
I plan to go to Henderson in the fall and then I am going to be studying health and physical education to become a career coach, and I am also going to be a coach.