Athlete of the Week: 10 questions with Emilia Smith, New Trier track and field

Emilia Smith is a senior jumper and sprinter for the Trevians. She qualified for the state finals in four events (long jump, triple jump, 400-meter run, 4-by-400 relay) this season and will attend Bucknell University starting next year.

1. Do you have any pregame rituals or superstitions?

During a meet I always wear the same purple top under my uniform, and before I race, I don’t like to talk to anybody. I just want to be by myself.

2. Why is Bucknell a good fit for you?

I’m really interested in their finance program; that’s what I’m majoring in. When I went on official visit, all the girls and coaches were so welcoming and so kind to me. And I just fell in love with the campus, and I’m excited to compete in the Patriot League. There’s a lot of good competition there. 

3. What is your dream job?

I don’t really have a dream job, per se. I’d like to own my own company at some point. I’m not sure what I want to do yet, but definitely have my own company. 

4. If you could compete in another sport, what would it be?

Probably gymnastics. I did a little bit when I was younger and wish I stuck with it more. I just enjoyed tumbling and that kind of thing. 

5. Why did you stick with track and field?

I was a competitive figure skater my whole life and I quit my sophomore year and I was just looking for something to do. I loved the team aspect of (track and field) and how supportive everyone at New Trier was of one another. I ended up being pretty good at it, so I stuck with it. 

6. What has been your top sports moment so far?

Last year at sectionals when I qualified (for state) in the 100. I came in as the third seed and I had not run the (state-qualifying) time so I really needed to place in the top two. I ended up having a big PR and winning the whole sectional. 

7. What is your favorite thing to do off the track?

I really love skiing. I go to Montana a lot with my family and I have since I was little. 

8. If you are in Walgreens with a couple bucks, what are you buying?

Definitely gum — Extra spearmint gum. 

9. What is something people don’t know about you?

I can do a backflip. I’m a little scared of it; I don’t want to get hurt, but I kind of rekindled it during COVID when I was bored. 

10. What do you hope to accomplish at state?

For me personally, I would really like to break school records in the triple jump and 400. And in the 4-by-400, hopefully run sub-4 minutes. As for long jump, just do what I can. It hasn’t been my best long jump season so just getting on the board. For the team, I just want everyone to have strong finishes to the season and run their best. 

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