Lacrosse Assistant Coach inspires with survivor story

Photo by Rhianna Barrow.

Assistant lacrosse coach Megan Smith has become part of the team and a beloved role model for her strength.

On Aug. 25, 2016, Smith was diagnosed with Osteosarcoma, a type of bone cancer. On July 13, 2017, after 17 rounds of chemotherapy over almost a year, she was cleared.

Years after her recovery, Smith hopes to encourage others through her cancer battle as well as on the field.

“Everyone knows someone who has been affected by cancer,” Smith said. “Sometimes it’s a battle that people fight silently, and I want them to know that there is victory.”

Since Smith’s arrival to the coaching staff, the lacrosse team has expanded its outreach to those affected by cancer in the community. The team plays an annual game for cancer awareness, makes t-shirts for fundraisers and has written letters to patients at Erlanger Cancer Center in Chattanooga as a part of the V.S. Cancer campaign.

“She keeps our defense and goalies well prepared by conveying her knowledge of the game.” said headcoach Derrel Martin. “Coach Smith works so very hard for this program.”

The team has improved overall, winning six out of eight games in the 2020 season to finish with their first-ever winning record compared to only four wins and 12 losses in the first season after she joined.

“This is my third season with the team and coach Martin,” said Smith, “it’s been great getting to grow the program here.”

Entering the 2021 season, the team ranks third in the Gulf South Conference in the preseason coaches poll.

More than wins and losses, they have also been recognized for their work off the field.

In 2019, the team received the NCAA D2 Team Community Awareness Award from the Intercollegiate Women’s Lacrosse Coaches Association.

Lee was the sole Division II recipient of the award, noted for over 500 hours of community service coordinated by Smith.

For the team, Smith’s role goes beyond the coaching staff.

“She’s more than just a coach,” said junior digital media and public relations major Shayna Ryan. “Almost like our mom away from our moms.”

Although Smith sometimes misses practice for routine scans to ensure the cancer is still gone, the team prays together for continued good news in her absence.

Kaylyn Dillon, a senior accounting major, talked about the effect she has seen since Smith joined.

“She’s been a great coach, but more than that, she’s been a soft connection and a middle ground,” said Dillon. “She’s somebody we can talk to about anything, but she still fits that leadership role on the team.”

For Smith, stepping out on the field every week represents more than just her dedication to coaching but her recognition as a cancer survivor.

“Being able to show that there’s success after tough times has been great,” said Smith. “I’m so thankful to be able to show that light and lean on this community at Lee and with lacrosse.”