BROOKHAVEN — Senior defender Matti Claire Smith signed with Southwest Mississippi Community College Tuesday morning at Brookhaven Academy. She played in 23 matches her senior year totaling 1,641 minutes of playing time to lead the team and had two goals. 

The defender was one of Brookhaven Academy’s leaders on the backline along with fellow teammate Ava Calcote. Smith said it felt good to sign with a college. 

“I wasn’t ready to stop playing. I’m happy I get two more years,” Smith said. “I chose Southwest because my former teammate Mallory Martin plays there. I played with her for so long and she is one of my good friends. I really liked my visit and I thought it was the best place for me.”

Smith said she started thinking about playing soccer in college a few years ago. She worked hard throughout the seasons to get better to where she could play soccer at the next level. 

Smith said she looks forward to meeting all of the girls on the Southwest team and making new friends. She added she loves soccer and is excited to keep playing. Her time at Brookhaven Academy is starting to wind down with the first semester almost finished. 

“I’m excited but I’ll miss Brookhaven Academy,” Smith said. “I’ve been here for a while, since K-3, and I’m ready for something new.”