Westmont College Athletics

Academic All-PacWest

GSAC Scholar-Athletes

Ron Smith Memorial Award* - Most Inspirational Player

*Westmont Baseball’s Most Inspirational Player Award is named after former Warrior player and coach, Ron Smith. Until 2012, the award was given to the player who exemplifies such qualities as courage, motivation, dedication, commitment and sacrifice – characteristics that were founded in abundance in Ron Smith. In addition, a memorial scholarship fund as been developed that annually provides financial assistance for a deserving student-athlete.

The untimely death of Ron during an outing with his Modesto High School students, left the hearts of many quite saddened. Those who knew him remember his mild-mannered ways, his commitment to growth of our youth, his unending dedication to all those he was involved with, his exceptional athletic and coaching abilities, and above all, his love for the Lord. His influence found its way into the lives of hundreds of individuals. The example he set as a coach, teach and father was respected by all.

So much can be said for Smith’s influence on the Westmont baseball program. Quietly going about reaching his goals, Smith upgraded the program in many ways. He spent endless hours on the facility itself. In addition, his teams find themselves in the record books as some of the top offensive teams in school history. His 1980 team reached the District 3 playoffs. As a player, Ron was a four-year starter, playing several positions and served as team captain for the 1972 squad.

Smith left behind his wife, Julie, and three children, Aaron, Tyron and Ramsey. Ron is missed, yet his memory and influence live on in the lives of his family, players, students and friends.