During Black History Month, App State Athletics is highlighting some of the accomplishments and perspective of coaches, administrators and staff members who serve as role models to our student-athletes.
Today, we hear from
Whitney Smyre, an App State women's track and field alum and current throws coach for the track and field program. From her time as a student-athlete, Smyre has four marks in the App State all-time list and holds the Holmes Center facility record for the women's indoor weight throw with a toss of 17.84m (58' 6.50"). She remains tied for fourth in the women's indoor weight throw (18.05m (59' 2.75")), ninth in the women's outdoor shot put (13.39m (43' 11.25")) and stands 10th in the women's indoor shot put (13.75m (45' 1.50)) and women's outdoor hammer throw (49.26m (161' 7.5")).
The Stoney Point, N.C. native has served as the throws coach for the men's and women's squad for four seasons.
Q: Why is celebrating Black History important to you?
Smyre: It's important to me because it reminds me of all the things Black Americans have been through, past and present, to be where we are now. We've come such a long way, but we have so much more to go. It allows me to make sure I do my part to keep us moving forward.
Q: Is there a figure in Black History whose story particularly resonates with you?
Smyre: Rosa Parks definitely comes to mind, because she was the first civil rights leader I remember learning about. She was a strong woman who stood up for herself and didn't back down, not because it was the law, but because she knew it wasn't right. There's been plenty of times in my life where similar situations have happened to me. So you have to decide, do you advocate for yourself or do you continue to let the situation be.
Q: How do you share Black History with App State student-athletes and/or staff?
Smyre: I'm sure I don't do enough to share Black History with them, but I do share things that I think they might find interesting through my Instagram account. It's the quickest and easiest way for them to see it.
Q: Why is it important to have representation within athletics?
Smyre: It's important because people always look for other people, in every setting, that are like themselves. I feel like everyone does this in some way or form. So for young Black athletes to see me in this role, it allows them to be more comfortable and more themselves. Kind of like a safe space.
Q: What is the biggest piece of advice you would give to someone looking to pursue a career in college athletics?
Smyre: My advice is to always be yourself and to be authentic about what you bring to the table. I was also told that there is only one you, so that's who you should be, unapologetically. I try to stick by that and it's always been beneficial for me.
