When I sat down with Alex Smith, his calm demeanor and thoughtful approach to life quickly stood out. At just 23 years old, Alex has already made a lasting impression at UCF as both a graduate student in communication and a leader for the Knights’ soccer team. During our conversation, he shared his journey, from discovering his love for soccer at age 10 to balancing the intense demands of graduate school and athletics.
His older brother’s collegiate career sparked Alex’s passion for soccer. Seeing my brother and others play in college made me want a journey of my own,” he explained. That passion turned into determination, leading him to UCF, where he embraced a team culture defined by intentionality and shared values. “We focus on being deliberate with everything we do, both on and off the field,” Alex shared.
Adapting to UCF’s unique style of play was a challenge, but Alex’s discipline and willingness to grow helped him thrive. His hard work paid off during the 2024 fall season, where he appeared in 15 of the Knights’ 16 matches, starting 13 and logging an impressive 1,079 minutes on the pitch. On September 29, 2024 Alex scored his first goal as a Knight in a pivotal 2-1 win over the Georgia State Panthers, marking the fourth goal of his collegiate career. Earlier that month, on September 11, 2024, he recorded his first collegiate assist, setting up Emmanuel Bam’s goal to give UCF a 2-1 lead against FIU.
For Alex, these achievements are just part of his journey. He focuses equally on contributing to the team’s defensive success. This season, Alex helped UCF limit opponents to two or fewer goals in 15 of 16 matches, including ten games with one or fewer goals and three clean sheets. “The transition wasn’t easy, but focusing in training and talking with coaches and teammates made all the difference,” he said.
Alex’s gratitude for his opportunities at UCF fuels his commitment. “I realize I have a unique opportunity to play the game I love while gaining an education,” he told me. This mindset drives his ability to balance academics and athletics. “I focus on soccer and school first. Once those are handled, everything else falls into place,” he said.
Off the field, Alex dedicates himself to mindfulness and maintaining a holistic approach to life. Whether preparing for a match or enjoying time with friends, he brings the same thoughtful energy to all he does. This mindset extends to his academic pursuits, where he balances the demands of graduate school with his athletic career.
As UCF continues to rise in collegiate soccer, Alex plays a vital role in shaping its future. “Even though we’ve had success, there’s still more to achieve,” he said. His leadership and drive are evident in his stats and the team’s collective accomplishments. Alex Smith is more than a player. He’s a symbol of what it means to grow through the game, leaving a legacy both on and off the pitch.
Main Image via UCF Athletics