Kylee Smith made an indelible mark in the pitcher's circle as she helped lead the University of North Georgia (UNG) softball program to a pair of NCAA Division II championship appearances in her five seasons. That included a Peach Belt Conference (PBC)-record 1,279 strikeouts.
She also earned the Schutt Sports/National Fastpitch Coaching Association National Player of the Year award in 2018 for her role in a season that saw UNG compile a program-record 62 victories.
But for Smith, sharing the credit was always an integral part of her approach.
"I was able to do what I did because I knew I had great people behind me," Smith said.
Following the cancellation of the final two months of the 2020 season due to COVID-19 with UNG at No. 3 in the nation, Smith did not hesitate to play another season for head coach Mike Davenport when the NCAA offered softball seniors another year of eligibility.
Smith and her teammates made the most of her final campaign, racking up the 2021 NCAA Southeast Regional and PBC championships before finishing among the nation's final four teams at the NCAA championship in Denver, Colorado.
She also started on her Master of Business Administration (MBA) at UNG, after earning a bachelor's degree in international affairs in August 2020. As she completes her Cottrell MBA during the 2021-22 academic year, Smith has joined Davenport's staff as a graduate assistant.
"He was the only one who took a shot on me and gave me a chance," Smith said. "I owe him everything in my softball career because he kept my dream going. I'm proud to be a part of the legacy Coach Davenport and previous players have built."
Throughout her journey at UNG, Smith has appreciated the perspective she has gained on leadership.
"There are different types of leaders," she said. "You don't always have to be the loud and outspoken leader. You need to understand the group you're leading to be a good leader."
She hopes to eventually work for the federal government in Washington, D.C. Her father's global experience inspired her studies and ignited a desire to see the world. No matter where she goes, though, her time with UNG softball will remain special.
"I wouldn't trade it for the world," Smith said. "And if I had more eligibility, I would play five more years."
