By SCOTT RICHEY, Staff Writer
CHARLESTON — Three years ago Charleston senior Aaron Smith didn’t know what or where Illinois Wesleyan University was. Then somebody mentioned the Division III school to Smith’s dad during a track meet. Illinois Wesleyan popped up again when Smith started to look at his college options both academically and to extend his track and cross country career.
Smith might have been in the dark about what to expect from Illinois Wesleyan, but the Titans’ coaching staff knew plenty about the Trojans’ distance runner. That proved to be a major selling point for Smith.
On his first unofficial visit to the Bloomington campus, Smith’s tour guide took him through the Shirk Center and pointed out Illinois Wesleyan head track coach Chris Schumacher. Smith went up to Schumacher to introduce himself but the introduction was hardly needed. Schumacher knew all about Smith and his running accomplishments.
“He actually spouted out my mile time, which was great because he already knew who I was,” Smith said. “It was a confidence booster for me. It was really a mutual get to know who they are and who I am rather than what can you run and what are your times.”
Recent Comments