In the fall, Ms. Yvonne Smith, now known as Coach Smith, will lead the Girls' Cross Country Team as she transitions from her role as an Assistant Coach for the XC program. Her journey to this point has been one of profound personal growth and transformation.
Following the heartbreaking loss of her mother, Yvonne felt a deep urge to make a significant change in her life. That's when she applied to become part of the School Facilities Team at Crescent. Yvonne relocated to Iva after being offered and accepted the job at Crescent High School in the summer of 2022. She now reflects on this move as a "God Send" for her as her life quickly changed after relocating.
In October of 2022, Yvonne became saved and later baptized, where she says her life changed more drastically. She quit smoking shortly after and started focusing on her health after smoking for 35 years. She began prioritizing her health, starting with evening walks around the Crescent Track. These walks gradually turned into runs, sparking a newfound passion for running. Embracing this passion, Yvonne began competing in 5K races and soon joined the XC program as an assistant coach.
"When I got saved, I gave it all to God, and the rest is history, so to speak. When we give our broken pieces to God, what He can do with them is amazing. I am so excited about what is in store for me and our Tigers! Thank you, Jesus, for this testimony!"
Since December, Coach Smith has passed her CDL test, enabling her to drive a bus and transport athletic teams to events. Her story of transformation continues, as she has now been accepted into the SC Create program. This program offers South Carolina school staff the opportunity to return to school for free to obtain a degree in Special Education. Yvonne is currently a student at Southern Wesleyan University, where she plans to graduate and become a teacher for Anderson 3.
We are thrilled to have Coach Smith lead the Girls' Cross Country Program and look forward to witnessing the impact of her inspiring journey and life-changing testimony.
Go Tigers!