Hometown Pride: 2003 Graduate Dennis Smith is Named Edinburgh School’s Athletic Director
Dennis Smith has come full circle. A 2003 Edinburgh graduate, Smith has officially achieved his lifelong dream by taking over the reins as the school’s new Athletic Director. Before stepping into the athletic department, Smith served the district as a middle school math teacher and continues to impact students on the court as the girls' varsity basketball coach.
Athletics and Edinburgh pride run deep in the Smith family. Dennis is the son of Tracy Smith and the late Judy Smiley. He was also profoundly influenced throughout his life by his older sister, Traci, who recently passed away. His twin brother, Derrick, serves as his right-hand man, taking over as the girls' Junior Varsity basketball coach.
Dennis is also a proud father to three highly active student athletes. Reese (Freshman) plays volleyball and basketball. Dennis is incredibly excited to have the opportunity to coach her on the girls’ basketball team this year. Reagan (Middle School) is involved in cheerleading, basketball, and softball. Ryan (East Side Elementary) is another multi-sport athlete playing football, basketball, and baseball.
Smith knew he wanted to be an athletic director since his sophomore year of high school, sparked by a Career Day hosted by his teacher, Mrs. Klein. On that day, he shadowed a Park and Recreation Director alongside the high school Athletic Director, setting his long-term goals in motion.
However, his path to the position wasn't linear. After high school, Dennis successfully managed a couple of restaurants and spent eight years as a warehouse lead at Interstate Warehouse.
In 2017, the sudden and tragic passing of his mother, Judy, served as a profound reminder of how fragile life is. Driven by her memory, Dennis decided to return to college to pursue his true passion. He returned to Edinburgh as a middle school math teacher and spent last year working diligently as the assistant athletic director to prepare for his current role.
As a high school student, Dennis was a three-sport athlete competing in tennis, basketball, and baseball. He fondly remembers the electric atmosphere of playing in Edinburgh’s iconic gym, citing his favorite high school memory in his junior year, when Edinburgh defeated Indian Creek with a thrilling, last-minute shot.
Dennis credits his work ethic and discipline to the incredible staff who raised him in the halls of Edinburgh. He notes several standout teachers and mentors, including Mr. Bechtel, Mr. Engelbert, Mr. Rockey, and Mrs. Flory for making his school days truly special. Mr. Brian Ingels, who acted as a second father figure, not only influenced him during school but also constantly showed up to support Dennis at his high school events.
Fueled by the care and leadership of his mentors and his mother, Dennis felt a deep calling to return home and pay that dedication forward to the next generation of Lancers.
As Athletic Director, Smith has clear goals to elevate Edinburgh's athletic programs and culture. First, to expand middle school sports by adding middle school tennis, baseball, and softball to better prepare athletes for high school competition. And second, boost school spirit by bringing back more pep rallies and school spirit days to ignite excitement throughout the student body.
When asked what advice he would give to current Edinburgh students, Smith emphasized total engagement and perspective. "Get involved in athletics and extracurricular activities and give 100% to all you do in school, both in academics and athletics. Enjoy every minute of your years in school because it goes very quickly. All we can control is our attitude and effort. Go into anything you do in school with a positive attitude and 100% effort."
For Dennis Smith, being named Athletic Director is more than just a job promotion. It is a lifelong dream officially achieved. Go Lancers!