17 Aug 2022 Smith, Wildcats hunting fourth-straight title

A three-peat is a rare feat. But even rarer? Kade Smith and the Harding Wildcats have their eyes on a four-peat. 

“It’s just such an incredible honor to three-peat, and we did it with such a great group of guys,” Smith said. “It was just awesome to be a part of. We want to win state again. We will work hard in practice every day and try to get better at something every day.”

Smith played a huge role in getting the Wildcats their third-straight title. As a junior in the title game, Smith threw for three touchdowns and ran for another three in the 47-25 win over Prescott. He was named the 3A state final MVP. 

“We expect much of the same from Kade this season,” said Harding Academy Head Coach Neil Evans. “He valued the football and rarely turned the ball over. He allows our offense to be whatever we need to be based on the looks our offense is seeing. If we need to throw it 40 times in a game, he can do it. If we need him to run it 10-12 times a game, he can do it. 

He’s a very strong runner. He has above average arm strength, is very poised and doesn’t get rattled or nervous. He was selected as a team captain of our team last year as a junior. This shows how highly his teammates think of him.”

Smith has committed to play baseball at the University of Arkansas.