Alfonso Smith: Class of 2016 Hall of Fame Spotlight
UT set to induct 10 new members in ceremony on October 13.
TAMPA, Fla. - A member of the Class of 2016 University of Tampa Athletics Hall of Fame class, Alfonso Smith played soccer for the Spartans from 1980-84.
Smith is among the 10 members that will be honored at a banquet to be held at the Vaughn Center on October 13, beginning with a 6 p.m. reception followed by a 7 p.m. dinner and ceremony. For more information, please contact Hall of Fame chairman Gil Swalls.
The 1984 second-team All-American played in 58 career games for the Spartans, recording 16 goals and nine assists.
After graduating from UT, he advanced to play three years with the Wichita Wings in the MISL. He played in 61 career games with the Wings, scoring 13 goals and 10 assists. He also played one game for the United States U-20 men's national soccer team at the 1981 FIFA World Youth Championship.
In July of 1984, Smith was named to the U.S. soccer team for the 1984 Summer Olympics. However, he and several other collegiate players were replaced by professionals before the tournament.
Following are answers from a Q&A with Smith regarding the selection to his alma mater's Hall of Fame.
Family members:
Married to Tamara Woodson-Smith. Has one daughter, Aris Smith (17).
What have you done following graduation?
Played professional indoor soccer with Wichita Wings. Was also a sales rep for Xara Sportswear, an adidas sales rep and V.P. of Team Sales with Best Buy Soccer.
How your time at UT influenced your future?
Helped me understand teamwork, dedication, perserverance and competitiveness.
Greatest UT memory?
Being a part of a college soccer dynasty and college soccer dominance.
Biggest influence at UT?
Jay Miller, Tommy Fitzgerald, Eric Vlahov, and my teammates.
Favorite spot on campus?
The SOCCER HOUSE
Thing you miss most about UT?
The comradery of teammates
Thoughts on being inducted in to UT Hall of Fame?
Very proud of being a part of a RICH HISTORY of dedicated student/athletes.
Message to current UT student athletes?
Commit to yourself and your teammates to strive to be the best.