On Virginia Avenue, the Smith family home is filled with the energy and drive of four talented brothers. For Weston Smith, 18, a recent graduate of  Hurricane High School and standout baseball player, that environment has been the foundation of a journey marked by leadership, achievement, and a deep love for the game. He lives with his parents, Mandie and J.R. Smith, and his younger brothers, Linkon (11) and Harrison (10), who attend Conner Street Elementary and are active in basketball, baseball, and cross country. His older brother, Jaxon (21), attends Marshall University and works to help students graduate debt-free.

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Weston has been immersed in baseball since the age of four, inspired by watching Jaxon play. “I started playing this sport because my older brother played,” Weston shared with Stroll Hurricane. “He paved the way, and I wanted to follow in his footsteps.”

A pitcher and outfielder, Weston has become a force on the field and a respected leader in the Hurricane baseball program. He credits Coach Marc Atkins, the team’s pitching coach, as a key figure in his development. “Marc has always been one of my biggest supporters,” Weston said. “He gave me lessons as a kid, and now he’s coaching me in high school—it’s come full circle.”

Weston’s list of accolades is impressive: two-time First Team MSAC honoree, Second Team All-State, First Team All-State Captain, Gatorade Player of the Year, MaxPreps Player of the Year, All-State Tournament Team, Kanawha Valley Player of the Year, and AP Player of the Year as voted by West Virginia sports writers. Despite these accomplishments, Weston remains grounded. “This sport has taught me that hard work doesn’t always lead to instant success. Sometimes you put in everything and still fall short—but that’s why you keep pushing.”

Of all the moments in his high school career, none stand out like the state championship victory this season. “Winning the state title with my team and celebrating on the field with the guys, who worked so hard all year—that was everything,” Weston said.

What Weston values most, beyond stats and titles, is the bond he shares with his teammates. “The connection we had made made it truly special. Being around those guys was the best part of it all.”

After graduation, Weston will continue his baseball journey at West Virginia University while pursuing a degree in sports management. ration—on and off the field.

His advice for younger athletes? “You’ve got to have fun. Baseball takes so much effort to be great, and if you’re not enjoying it, it’s just not worth it.”

As Weston Smith turns the page to the next chapter, his legacy in Hurricane is one of commitment, humility, and a deep appreciation for the people who helped him get there.

We are blessed to have him as part of our community, and believe great things are to come.