GIRLS BASKETBALL

FAITH: GC's Smithson feels God is comforter

Michael Odom
michodom@jacksonsun.com
Gibson County's Allie Smithson

Playing for the Gibson County girls basketball team, Allie Smithson got to experience the highs of playing at the state tournament and reaching the championship game, but she also felt the heartbreak of losing that championship.

But through all of it, God was there to comfort and show that He is greater than any experience.

"There is nothing greater than the comfort that God can give you," Smithson said. "Losing the championship was tough, but it wasn't anything that God couldn't handle and get us through."

Maybe that is why Smithson tries to show her faith in the locker room and on the court.

"I try to encourage my teammates," Smithson said. "I know they look up to me, and I feel that I have to be the light for them. I have had teammates who are rough and talk down to you. I have always worked to show that light of God.

"God also helps me to not get down on myself. There will be nights when you are going to have bad games. Every athlete is hard on themselves, but Joshua 1:9 talks about being strong and not scared."

Smithson said that there are many nights when she is nervous, but she knows of one step that she can take to lower that nervous energy.

"Prayer before games helps to settle the nerves so much," she said. "I know that no matter what God is there."

This past summer, Smithson went on a mission trip to Memphis, and that is when she felt God's presence the most in her life.

"It was an amazing experience," she said. "We got to help kids in inner-city Memphis. It was eye opening. These kids had never seen anything beyond where they live, and they thought we were the greatest. It was a humbling experience that showed how blessed we are."

Smithson attends First Baptist Church of Kenton. She is active within the youth group, sings in the choir and is serving on the youth pastor search committee.

Going to church in Kenton brings a different element to Smithson's walk with God.

"Going to church in Kenton, it is kids from Obion and Weakley counties," Smithson said. "These aren't kids from my school. It is a good way to outlet and not be around my classmates. You get to communicate with people that you don't see every day. I love worshiping in a group."

Growing up in church, God has always been a part of Smithson's life.

"My parents taught me that you look to God when you don't know what to do," she said. "For me, God is my outlet. When there is no one else to turn to, he is always there."

Smithson's favorite story from the Bible is David and Goliath.

"It is a great example of how the smallest, weakest person can overcome the strongest with God's help," Smithson said.

Michael Odom, 425-9754

"For me, God is my outlet," said Gibson County's Allie Smithson. "When there is no one else to turn to, he is always there."

Allie Smithson's favorite verse

Joshua 1:9 (NIV) - Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.