Nate Smith always dreamed of attending college on a football scholarship.
With some hard work and a little twist of fate, the Lapeer West High School senior’s dream has come true. Nate signed a commitment letter on Friday, May 7, 2010 to accept a football scholarship to Concordia University in Ann Arbor. He will play quarterback for the university.
“It’s kind of crazy,” Nate said at the signing ceremony. “Two weeks ago I thought I was going to Alma (College).”
That was before fate stepped in. Anthony Pratley, Concordia’s Offensive Coordinator, said he was watching a game tape for another team when he saw Nate quarterbacking West’s team.
“I said, ‘We have to get a hold of this kid,’ ” Pratley said. Pratley called Nate’s coach, not then knowing that West Coach Mike Smith also is Nate’s father.
Nate is happy that Pratley called. “I’m glad to be going to a good place with good people to play and study,” he said.
His dad and coach, Mike, also is happy for him. “And maybe just a little bit proud,” he said.
Nate’s mother, Lila, and sister, Maddison, a Lapeer West sophomore, also attended the signing ceremony.
In 2009, Nate was named to the Flint Metro League First Team and led West to a 9-2 record, passing for 1,612 yards and 10 touchdowns. He rushed for seven touchdowns. He also lettered in football, basketball, golf and track.
