NCS SHINES - SF UNIVERSITY HIGH SCHOOL - ALEX SMITH, ASSISTANT ATHLETIC DIRECTOR

Great sportsmanship isn’t just shown by student-athletes—it’s modeled by the adults who support them.

During a tightly contested lacrosse game at University High School, with just minutes remaining and the score 5-4, one team found themselves out of water and running on empty. In a critical moment, Assistant AD Alex Smith stepped in without hesitation. 

After being asked if any water was available, Alex took it upon himself to collect empty bottles, walk across campus to a nearby fountain, fill them, and return them to the visiting team—all while the game hung in the balance. 

It was a simple act, but a powerful one. In a moment where he didn’t have to act, Alex chose to prioritize the well-being of student-athletes, embodying the true spirit of education-based athletics. 

That’s what it means to shine.