A dream fulfilled: Jamarion Smith named the Cook, Barkett, Ponder, and Wolz Offensive Football Athlete of the Year

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. — As Jamarion Smith stood in the spotlight, crowned as the Cook, Barkett, Ponder, and Wolz Offensive Football Athlete of the Year at the esteemed 2023 Semoball Awards, the thunderous applause echoed through the air, marking not only a personal achievement but the realization of a lifelong dream.

“Winning this award means more than anyone will ever know,” Smith said. “My father had the dream of winning this award himself and his childhood dreams were so very close to those of mine. Unfortunately, he was injured at a young age and could no longer fulfill them himself. My father has taught me almost everything I know about football and has shed every drop of blood, sweat, and tears I have right by my side. Not only this, but he along with my mother has taught me to have determination, discipline, and courage.”

The Portageville running back had one of the best seasons ever in southeast Missouri. He rushed 274 times for 2,392 yards and 33 touchdowns, caught eight receptions for 110 yards and a touchdown, and returned 13 kickoffs for 314 yards. He also threw a 70-yard touchdown pass.

Jamarion Smith (24) runs for a touchdown�during the Bulldogs' 72-20 win at East Prairie on Friday, Sep. 9.�Dennis Marshall/Standard-Democrat

Smith helped lead the Bulldogs to a 10-3 overall record and the school’s first district championship since 2022. He rushed for 514 yards in a district semifinal win over Scott City, avenging an earlier season loss.

It was the fourth most yards rushing yards in a game in the history of Missouri High School football, and the most by a SEMO area player.

“I see this award as a powerful reflection of the unwavering commitment I’ve poured into my passion,” Smith said. “It’s a shining symbol that my hard work and dedication have not only made an impact on myself but also brought pride and inspiration to my family, community, and beyond.

Portageville's Jamarion Smith (24) breaks free for a big gain�during a MSHSAA Class 1 Quarterfinal at Duchesne High School on Saturday, Nov. 19.�Dennis Marshall/Standard-Democrat

“This award will show future players from our small hometown that it can be accomplished,” he continued. “This award has driven me to work even harder for my college football career. This award has shown me that I can continue to advance in my career and that this is a reality for me and not just a daydream.”

Smith said his father is his primary role model, however, he isn’t the only influential figure in his life.

Smith explained, “Mrs. Bullock was my second-grade school teacher who once said to me ‘No matter what obstacles you face, never give up’ and this has stuck with me my entire career. To this day Mrs. Bullock continues to watch me advance in my career and is always in my corner pushing me forward.”

Portageville's Jamarion Smith (24) slices through the Charleston defense during a 34-28 win at John Harris Marshall Stadium on Thursday, Sep. 22. (Dennis Marshall/Standard-Democrat)

Smith candidly acknowledged that learning patience has been one of the most formidable hurdles he has encountered on his journey, requiring steadfast resilience to overcome.

“With skill, dedication, and leadership comes a lot of patience,” he said. “I did have to learn and be taught a lot about patience. There was patience needed with advancing my career, waiting to hear from colleges, learning on the field, with my teammates and coaches, and most importantly my education. Learning patience and knowing that all good things come with time will further advance me into my career and adulthood.”

Smith relishes being a role model to younger generations of athletes and embraces every chance to lend a helping hand, eager to share the knowledge and experience instilled in him by his father.

Portageville's Jamarion Smith carries the ball against Scott City in a Class 1 District 1 semifinal matchup at Scott City High School. Megan Burke ~ mburke@semissourian.com

“I am very passionate about teaching and leading younger players for the love of football,” he said. “I am proud that I have won this award to be able to show them how dedication and practice do lead to success. I have become well known in my small town where I am actively participating in teaching little league sports along with neighborhood kids and younger students in my school. I am also proud that I can be a role model for them.”

Smith’s sights are now set on the future, where he envisions even greater accomplishments in the game he loves.

“My short-term goal currently is to continue my high school education and football career,” Smith said. “I am actively looking at applying with several colleges that may see me as an asset to their football program. After my college career, I would like to advance to playing football with the NFL. My long-term goal is to finalize a degree in Sports Management. With a Sports Management career, I would be allowed to work alongside future athletes to help advance their careers.

Jamarion Smith runs for a touchdown against East Prairie earlier this season.Dennis Marshall/Standard Democrat

“I would like to thank God for blessing me through my entire career,” he concluded. “Through many prayers made by myself, my parents, and my family, God has never left my side. I would also like to thank my parents for fighting to provide for me as I continue to advance. I will continue to lean on all three of them as I go further with the opportunities that have been given to me.”