Michelle Smith Earns Freshman of the Year and Inspirational Performance Honors at Georgia

Michelle Smith, a freshman at the University of Georgia and a rising track and field athlete from the U.S. Virgin Islands, has earned two major honors following a standout collegiate debut. According to information provided about her 2025 season, Smith was named Freshman of the Year and received the award for Most Inspirational Performance, achievements that cap a year marked by record-setting runs and decisive contributions to her team’s success. Smith, who is from Frederiksted, St. Croix, drew national attention throughout the season with her performances in the 400-meter hurdles. At the Florida Relays, she ran 54.56 seconds, setting a new Georgia school record, establishing a Virgin Islands national record, and placing herself among the fastest Under-20 athletes globally. Her consistency led to her selection as the Southeastern Conference Freshman Runner of the Year, making her the first athlete from the Virgin Islands to receive that distinction. Her Most Inspirational Performanc...