In the Maori language of New Zealand, “kia kaha” means “stay strong.” Former track and field coach Randy Smith used that expression during track meets to encourage his athletes to do their best. And now, he and his children have established the Coach Randy Smith “Kia Kaha” Scholarship Fund with the Scioto Foundation. Graduating seniors from South Point High School and Green High School who have participated in at least one season of track and field or cross country are eligible. Regardless of athletic success, students who have demonstrated integrity, service, and perseverance, and have overcome hardships are encouraged to apply.
Randy Smith has lived a life that sets an admirable example and has inspired his students, athletes, colleagues, and family. As a student at South Point High School and Glenville State College, he was a multi-sport stand-out, especially in track and field and football. He completed his bachelor’s degree in education, and began his teaching career back home at South Point in special education, while also beginning what would become an outstanding career in coaching.
After 35 and a half years of teaching and coaching at South Point, Coach Smith retired with accolades and championships that he and his athletes had earned, and the admiration and love from hundreds of former students. Retirement didn’t last long. He soon began his second teaching career at Green High School where he spent another decade devoted to inspiring students to find their strengths and confidence in the classroom and in athletics.
Forty-five years in education was still not enough for Randy Smith. Following his second retirement, Portsmouth West High School offered him a short term position that lasted four years. His goal was to complete fifty years as a teacher and coach, but a recent health diagnosis redirected his plans.
An avid traveler and a life-long learner, Randy Smith has visited more than 40 countries, including multiple visits to New Zealand. He is the father of three, grandfather of six, and grew up in a family of ten siblings. He is quick to praise his family and his students, but he is humble when it comes to his part in their success: “My love for teaching and coaching has always been about giving the kids a great experience, and being there for them.”
South Point High School will honor Coach Smith in a ceremony later this month when the school’s track will be named for him. As Randy Smith faces the most difficult challenge of his life battling pancreatic cancer, he still has a remarkably positive attitude and will carry with him the words of his New Zealand friends: “kia kaha, Coach Smith.”
For more information about the Coach Randy Smith “Kia Kaha” Scholarship or other scholarship funds invested at the Scioto Foundation, please contact Patty Tennant or Ginnie Moore at 740.354.4612.