The 6-1 honor student emerged as one of the state's top catchers both offensively and defensively, becoming the Essex County Hitter of the Year and a Second Team All selection, batting .462 with six home runs, 18 extra-base hits, 27 RBI, 30 RBI and 12 stolen bases. Smith, who plays for the NJ Marlins in the summer, was also named First Team All-Essex and First Team All-Group 2, helping to lead James Caldwell High School, West Caldwell, to the Greater Newark Tournament semifinals and the North Jersey, Section 2, Group 2 final.
James Caldwell High School senior Hunter Smith has signed a letter of intent to play collegiate athletics with William & Mary College, Williamsburg, VA. The 6-1 honor student emerged as one of the state's top catchers both offensively and defensively, becoming the Essex County Hitter of the Year and a Second Team All selection, batting .462 with six home runs, 18 extra-base hits, 27 RBI, 30 RBI and 12 stolen bases. Smith, who plays for the NJ Marlins in the summer, was also named First Team All-Essex and First Team All-Group 2, helping to lead James Caldwell High School, West Caldwell, to the Greater Newark Tournament semifinals and the North Jersey, Section 2, Group 2 final.
Smith selected William & Mary over offers from several respected schools. "It's an outstanding academic school and that's my biggest priority," said Smith. "They have a very successful baseball program and it feel like the right place for me."
Principal Kevin Barnes, an alumna of William & Mary, welcomed Smith to the signing by having him try on his school ring. “The ring is a bit big,” said Smith. “But, I think that William & Mary is the perfect fit.”
A three-year starting catcher, Smith earned Second Team All-Essex and Second Team All-Group 2 as a sophomore, hitting .365 and a .451 on-base percentage.
For more information on JCHS, visit www.cwcboe.org/jchs.
