For Kathryn Smith, a Loomis Chaffee senior and captain of both the field hockey and lacrosse teams, athletics have been at the center of her journey. Beyond the playing fields, she also serves as a resident assistant in Palmer Hall, a tour guide, and an active member of the Loomis Chaffee Athletics Association. She shares the Loomis experience with her younger brother, Huntting, a sophomore at the school. 

One of Kathryn’s favorite memories as a Pelican came last year when the field hockey team defeated Hotchkiss in the regular season. “Megan Hosman scored an amazing goal, and I remember yelling and running to hug her,” Kathryn said. “I don't think I have ever been that excited over a game or goal.” 

Kathryn’s path has not been without challenges. Getting injured last year stands out as the most difficult moment of her Loomis athletics career. “I am still overcoming it,” she admitted, “but I am so grateful for my teammates and coaches who have supported me throughout that process.” 

Kathryn also credits her teammates with shaping her approach to leadership. “I think Hamilton Doster ’23 taught me to be a good teammate,” she said. “Hamilton was always going out of her way to make me feel loved and supported. She was constantly checking in on me and bringing a positive attitude to a practice or game.” 

If Kathryn could give her younger self any advice, she said, “I would tell my freshman self not to worry so much about making a team or messing up during a practice or game. Everyone makes mistakes, and sports should be fun and competitive. Freshman year was hard for me. I was homesick and there was a lot of change. I would give myself more grace.”