Wingate University Athletics

Tripp Smith saw action in 11 of 11 games for the Bulldogs in 2008. He had seven tackles on the season, including three stops at Carson-Newman. Smith had single tackles against UNCP, Lenoir-Rhyne, Newberry and Catawba. He made the switch from offensive line to defensive line in 2008. As an offensive lineman, Smith helped tailback Nelson Woods become the first 1,000-yard rusher in 10 years in 2007. Wingate was third in the league in passing offense the same season. In 2006, the Bulldog offense was tops on the SAC charts (and eighth in NCAA Division II) with 273.8 yards per game. At Crest High School, Smith helped the Chargers compile a record of 26-4 during his junior and senior years. Crest won the state 3AA title in 2003 and 2004. Smith was an All-Conference selection during his career with the Chargers. He is the son of Gene and Cathy Smith.