Player Bio

Former State University of New York at New Paltz student-athlete Brian Smith '14 has switched his focus from helping his teammates on the volleyball court to helping people in everyday life by working in law enforcement as a New York State Trooper.

A native of Massapequa, N.Y., Smith has been involved with volleyball from a young age as the love for volleyball also runs through Smith's family.

"My parents actually met playing beach volleyball as my father played professionally and my mother played for C.W. Post, a Division II program," Smith explained. "My siblings and I have been around the sport since the day we were born."

Smith, a standout at Massapequa High School, was twice named to the All-Nassau County Team, as well as being named to the All-Long Island Team. Smith graduated from high school in 2010 and decided on New Paltz because he felt that "it was an affordable school that offered a competitive volleyball program and a great academic experience."

Smith was named one of the team captains during his junior year as the Hawks went 27-6 and advanced to the United Volleyball Conference (UVC) Semifinals. Smith won the Team MVP award during his senior year, along with being named to the NCAA Men's Volleyball Division III Championship All-Tournament Team.

During his time as a Hawk, Smith is appreciative of his experience playing under head coach Radu Petrus, who will enter his 12th season on the sidelines in 2018.
"Playing for Radu was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life as he pushed me to achieve a level of mental and physical toughness that I did not know I had," Smith stated. 

"I think I speak for most of my teammates when I say we have a great amount of quotes and memories from playing for coach."

In his post-graduate career, Smith is currently a New York State Trooper, though it wasn't always in his plans to get into law enforcement.

"I didn't always know I wanted to get into law enforcement.  I did however know I wanted a profession where I would be able to help people every day," Smith said. "My parents always encouraged me to take every civil service test possible and I thank them every day for that.  I am truly blessed to be able to do what I do."

Smith points to his experience of being a student-athlete at New Paltz as helping shape him today.

"Being a student-athlete at New Paltz helped to get me where I am today.  I wouldn't trade the relationships, experiences, and lessons learned for the world," Smith said. "It is, and always will be, a great day to be a Hawk."