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Coach Remon Smith of Klein Forest Track & Field
THE MOTIVATOR: Smith gives credit to Klein Forest upon national recognition
Given that fact, it makes sense that he was recognized as both the Milesplit National Coach of the Year, as well as the Houston Chronicle’s Greater Houston 6A Coach of the Year
However, he didn’t give all the credit to himself.
“Words can’t really explain how great it feels to be recognized,” Smith said. “I’m excited. For me, I feel like the award is for my team, my community, my coaching staff, and the school itself. I just happen to be the recipient of it, but it was thanks to their efforts.”
As previously mentioned, Smith has had the privilege to work with numerous talented individuals throughout his tenure as a coach. His scope of influence began with his first coaching job, as the MacArthur girls coach in the mid-90s, before coaching the Nimitz boys track coach, and ultimately joining Klein Forest, seven years ago.
Of course, Smith recognized this too.
“I’ve been fortunate enough to have worked with some phenomenal young athletes, ranging from the girls I coached at MacArthur, to my first stint as a boys coach at Nimitz, before being blessed with the unbelievably talented athletes I’ve gotten to know at Klein Forest.”
“Through my career, I’ve learned how to understand the individuals--to motivate them and help them to succeed, which is all a coach can do. But again, I’ve just been blessed to be around such talented athletes. I just tell them, ‘Hey, I’m going to make sure the bus gets there on time, and get you home safe,’ and they do the rest.”
As a coach, it certainly can’t hurt to have some of the most well-rounded competitors in the state.
2022-23 Klein Forest Boys Track & FieldBradley C. Collier (VYPE)
“I think what separates the [Klein Forest] guys I’ve worked with is the fact that they are willing to do what others aren’t. They try to make the uncomfortable comfortable in their pursuit of titles. Those guys work hard and they are very resilient, both mentally and physically, which allows them to go to the next level.”
Talent aside, what’s the secret ingredient that coach Smith incorporates into his program--one that turns exemplary athletes into champions?
“I make them believe in themselves,” he said. “I try to help them understand that the only limits you have are the ones you put on yourself. They buy into that, and a lot of them will go on to exceed their own expectations. I think that’s another thing that has allowed me to succeed as a coach.”
You had better believe that coach Smith--and, by extension, Klein Forest--are far from done, when it comes to state championships.
Expect the team to be hungry for more, come next Spring.
Klein High's India Alix
LEAPS & BOUNDS: Alix propelling into history for Klein, TEAM USA
Alix’s accolades speak for themselves. In 2022 alone, she ascended the ranks of Texas to take silver in Long Jump (20 ft.) at the UIL State Meet. Subsequently, Alix earned gold at the USATF U20 Qualifiers to become part of Team USA and competed in the U20 World Championships in Cali, Colombia.
Justin Hartojo (VYPE)
Most recently, her performance at the Cain Relays made her the current No. 1 nationally-ranked Triple Jumper (42-2.50) and No. 2 nationally-ranked Long Jumper (19-8.25)
This journey that led to this achievement began at a young age.
“I’ve been doing track since I was six years old, and slowly fell in love with it a lot more than I initially expected,” said Alix. “It feels great to have such high marks so early in the season, and it makes me want to work even harder to stay on top.”
With a track record like that, it’s no surprise that Alix will be joining one of the strongest forces of the SEC. At the conclusion of this semester, she will be a Florida Gator.
Justin Hartojo (VYPE)
“I chose Florida for a lot of reasons,” she said. “But, my main reason was that it felt like a place where I can really flourish and be myself and build a great bond with the coaches and other athletes there. They have so many big accomplishments there as a track program and I want to be a part of that.”
Being a T&F athlete of this caliber doesn’t leave much free time. With that in mind, what does a high school senior like India Alix do when she has a moment to spare? Furthermore, on the off-chance that she won’t represent Team USA on the Olympic stage, what does her future look like?
Justin Hartojo (VYPE)
“Outside of track, I normally play a lot of video games, read some of my favorite books or talk to my friends on the phone,” Alix said. “After college, I want to go into the medical field to become a sports medicine physician. I’ve always been around doctors my whole life and I found that field to be very interesting. It’s always been something I’ve wanted to do.”
With several weeks remaining in the UIL T&F season, who knows just how far Alix can go? Expect hardware and medals aplenty in her bright future.