“He is electric with the ball in his hands. He is a natural leader with an outstanding personality,” said Catholic Memorial Head Coach Bill Young, praising the potential and caliber of Penn State’s running back, Corey Smith. Additionally, he continued, “He has legit speed with a 4.4, the fastest that our school has had.” Hence, you can imagine the prowess of the running back on gridiron.

Moreover, having a supportive family and athletic background also helps a four-star athlete achieve success off and on the field. However, very little information is publicly available regarding Smith’s parents’ and family’s backgrounds. But the journey of this star athlete was quite interesting.

Smith’s football journey with his high school teammate

The son of Corrie Smith and John Crowley Sr. was not a single child, as he had one brother and three sisters. The No. 1 prospect in the state, according to Rivals, did not get his father’s love as he died because of gunfire when Smith was 1, but other family members were always there throughout his journey. Additionally, Smith lost his elder brother to the same thing.

Describing the bond between Smith and his high school friend, Donovan Harbour, his mother once said, “They’re just peanut butter and jelly. God couldn’t have set it up any better, that they would meet and be on this journey together.” They both started playing football together in seventh grade but didn’t end up at the same school until they entered Catholic Memorial as freshmen.

What can be more exciting than getting a chance to play with your friend? On that note, Smith said, “It’s going to be really comfortable and really exciting. I’ve got a person with me; I’ve known her my whole high school career and my whole youth. It will be real fun to experience it with one of my brothers,” after joining Penn State as a running back.

Despite the tragedies he endured as a child, the stellar performer did not leave hope and put his heart and soul to come to the position he is now. Let’s take a glimpse of the achievements of the Penn State running back.

Corey’s achievements till now

Born in Waukesha, WI, Corey attended Catholic Memorial High School and started playing at that place. He ran for 1,304 yards in 163 carries and was a first-team all-state selection by the Wisconsin Football Coaches Association. Along with that, he recorded 2,452 yards and 44 touchdowns in his senior season.

In December 2023, Smith signed a letter of intent with Penn State and enrolled his name on June 3, 2024. Currently, the 13th recruit of the Nittany Lions’ 2024 class is preparing himself for the upcoming season so that he brings more to the team. What are your expectations from this young lad?