Success has come in several forms for Chandler senior Blaklei Smith, but the moments that mean the most to her have been built through perseverance, faith and the people who have helped shape her along the way.
Smith competes in basketball, fastpitch softball and track for the Lady Lions. This past year provided two accomplishments she is especially proud of: helping Chandler reach the Class 3A softball state finals and qualifying for the state track meet in an individual event.
Those achievements reinforced something sports have taught her for years.
“My sports have taught me many lessons over the years, but the one that sticks out the most is to not let other people define the player you are, and hard work always pays off eventually,” Smith said.
As she prepares for her senior season, Smith hopes to become the type of leader she admired when she first entered high school. Former teammate Carson Jackson left a lasting impression by competing with relentless effort, encouraging those around her and openly living out her faith.
Smith said Jackson’s example showed her what true leadership looks like, and she wants younger teammates to experience the same kind of encouragement.
Faith also plays a central role in Smith’s perspective. One of the most meaningful lessons she has received is not to allow wins and losses to determine her happiness.
“Softball is known as a sport of failure,” Smith said. “The joy of the Lord is the only place I can seek eternal happiness.”
That outlook has helped her approach competition with greater confidence and peace, especially during difficult stretches.
Away from athletics, Smith stays active through National Honor Society, Positive Peers and her school’s Gifted and Talented program. She also attends youth activities at Chandler First Baptist and worships with her family at Edmond Life Church. During the summer, she enjoys playing basketball with a travel team, and each winter she volunteers at Miracle League baseball alongside her dad, spending time with children with disabilities.
Among the educators who influenced her most, Smith still remembers her fourth-grade teacher, Mrs. Noblett, who recognized how she learned best and provided encouragement on difficult days.
She also appreciates growing up in Chandler, where she says the close-knit community makes it easy to build lasting relationships across grade levels and always see familiar faces around town.
As she enters her final year of high school, Smith is especially grateful for the people who have supported her throughout the journey. She credits her parents and grandparents for standing beside her through every season, from hot summer practices to cold winter games, while continually encouraging her to play with confidence. She also thanks Lady Lions softball coach Bryan Herring for believing in her, challenging her to grow and helping her become a stronger athlete and person.
