The University of Massachusetts men's lacrosse program begins an alumni-centric series featuring many of the program's all-time greats, in which they update friends, fans and fellow alums. Participating alumni discuss what it means to be a part of the program, how UMass impacted their growth and success and share messages of support with the current team.
The Second Entry: Norm Smith '79, a two-time all-American and a life-long contributor to the lacrosse community in New England. Norm Smith lettered from '76-79
and graduated as one of the
program's all-time leading scorers.What is your fondest memory of playing lacrosse at UMass? Norm Smith: For me, playing lacrosse at UMass was really all about wearing the jersey - wearing the jersey and playing of course for Coach Garber. I loved every minute and every day was better than the last. The four years went by in the blink of an eye.
You earned a long and distinguished career in the financial sector after graduation. Looking back now, how did UMass prepare you to head out into the real world and have the success you've had? NS: UMass provided me with an unparalleled undergraduate and graduate experiences. Life-changing doors opened for me. I loved my career. I had senior financial positions in companies ranging from Fortune 100 to start-ups - it was an incredible intellectual challenge which I was well-prepared for by my UMass education. And best of all I got to do this within 60 miles from where I was born. Norm Smith with his son, Kyle. Your son, Kyle, also lettered for four seasons at UMass and you share a rare accomplishment of being one of two father-and-son duos in the team's 100-Point Club. As a father, what did it mean to you to see your son choose UMass and also excel on the same field you played on? NS: There is a saying to the effect that there is no greater joy for a father than to delight in the success of his son. The sharing of our legacy has meant so much to me.
What did it mean to you to earn selection into the UMass Athletics Hall of Fame as a member of the Class of 2018 (one of only 13 men's lacrosse alumni to do so)? NS: In a lifetime of memories, being elected to the UMass Athletics Hall of Fame is at the very top.
Norm Smith and Kyle Smith, now
an assistant coach at Merrimack,
celebrating Merrimack's
2018 National Championship.What are you doing to pass the time as we stay safe and practice social distancing currently? NS: My wife and I have shut it down completely. I would confess to binge-watching programs on Hulu, but that might ruin the interview. Thank goodness the Michael Jordan documentary started.
What does "Gorilla Lacrosse" and "Garber's Gorillas" mean to you? NS: "Gorilla" is our abbreviation for blue-collar lacrosse. UMass lacrosse guys have a chip on their shoulder. They have something to prove. They have an underdog mentality.
What message of support do you have for the 2020 team, those returning next season or those graduating, right now? NS: I can't wait for next season to begin. I am betting the Gorillas are going to hit it out of the park. Men's lacrosse alumni interested in participating can reach out to communications director Cody Lahl at clahl@umass.edu. Follow Massachusetts men's lacrosse on Twitter (@UMassMLacrosse), Instagram (@UMassMLAX) and Facebook (/UMassMensLacrosse).
Read all past entries in the Alumni Spotlight series:Frank Garahan '75
