While Frenship High Graduate Stephen Smith was facing off with the rest of the Texas Tech baseball team against Coastal Carolina University at the College World Series Thursday, many of his high school buddies gathered to cheer him on in Lubbock. Most said they couldn’t afford to make it to Omaha so they joined together at a Lubbock backyard to follow the game
Over a dozen Frenship grads watched over Smith’s every play. They’d groan in frustration when Smith would strike out, then shout out “Yeah, buddy!” and ‘Steve-oh!” when he’d step up to bat.
These high school friends were overwhelmingly proud to see Smith playing at the College World Series.
“He’s definitely put in the effort, he’s definitely done all the work to get to where he’s at today, so it’s good to see him there,” said Jay Pendergrass, a high school friend of Smith’s.
Jack Vanderburg, another of Smith’s high school friends, said that most of his memories with Smith involve laughter.
“He’s pretty goofy honestly, that’s the first thing that comes to mind,” Vanderburg said of Smith.
Vanderburg added that it seems fitting for his friend to be playing at such a high level.
“It’s pretty cool to say we pretty much all expected it to happen, but it’s awesome to finally get to see it,” he said.
Vanderburg explained that while Smith may look intimidating on the baseball field, he’s one of the most fun and friendly guys you could meet.
While Smith’s friend’s were pulling for a Tech win Thursday night, they say regardless of how the Series ended for Tech Baseball, they’re looking forward to celebrating with Smith when he makes it back to home.
During the game Thursday, Vanderburg had some words he wanted to share with Smith:
“Good luck, we cannot wait until you get back!”
