“I’ve been playing soccer since I was four, and I started playing goalie during my township days.”
Cory Smith has had soccer in his blood since he was 4 years old. The Burlington Township senior goalkeeper has continued to work at his craft since his days as a child. Unlike other players who may want to get in the spotlight by scoring goals or chipping in assists, Smith has stuck true to the position he first gave a chance during his youth.
“I’ve been playing soccer since I was 4, and I started playing goalie during my township days,” Smith said. “One of our keepers was away so they asked if I wanted to fill in, I figured I did pretty well and stuck with it ever since.”
Now Smith is 18 years old and ready for his final few months in a Burlington Township soccer jersey. He has been the starting varsity keeper the last two years, and is a captain this season.
“We know we’re in a tough division,” Smith said. “We just try to label ourselves as underdogs and we want to change some opinions that people have about us.”
Being paired with nationally ranked Delran, as well as Rancocas Valley, Cinnaminson and Moorestown high schools, is a tough task the Falcons will look to overcome this season.
Burlington Township went 8–11–1 a year ago, eventually falling in the Central Jersey Group 3 semifinals to Allentown High School, 1–0.
The hope for Smith is that the team can get back to that level again in 2017.
“Overall, the goal this season is to be respected,” Smith said. “Also we would like to get far in both the Coaches Cup Tournament and the playoffs. I also hope to achieve first- or second-team division honors as a goalkeeper.”
As a goalkeeper, Smith is able to see the whole field and run the show from his net. Communication with his defensive backline is key.
“That’s probably the best part about playing, honestly,” Smith said. “You go out knowing your team has your back, and you have the team’s back as well. That’s our culture for the team.”
An experienced goalkeeper can go a long way for a team that is trying to be successful. Not only does Smith’s athletic ability go a long way for the team, but also his character, head coach Alec Golini said.
“Cory is a tremendous leader of high character,” Golini said. “He is everything you want in a captain and consistently sets the tone for our program. My hopes are that his leadership will help to guide our younger players and the future of our program.”
Outside of being in the classroom or being on the pitch, Smith enjoys a variety of activities to keep himself busy.
“It’s soothing to go out and fish or hike,” Smith said. “Other than that, I’m in the gym a lot more and I also will watch some professional matches if they are on television.”
Smith’s hopes are to attend a four-year college following graduation to study engineering.
