Tiger Cubs' Hunter Smith to play football at Franklin College

Greencastle senior Hunter Smith signs his intent to enroll at Franklin College, where he hopes to play football in the fall. He is joined by (front, from left) mother Bonnie Smith, Hunter Smith, father George Smith, (back) GHS football coach Josh Buis, high school principal Russ Hesler and athletic director Kelly Lewis. (Banner Graphic/GRANT WIEMAN)

Greencastle senior Hunter Smith is used to winning football games, so when he decided to play division-III football in college, the choice came easy to him.

Smith elected to attend Franklin College in the fall, where he will play strong safety for the Grizzlies. He didn't really entertain any other options.

"I could have, but I didn't look anywhere else because (the Grizzlies) beat everyone else," Smith said. "They are the best DIII school I could find in Indiana."

Smith said was also impressed with the quality education he will get at Franklin. He intends to study environmental science.

"Hunter is a part of a class that has had a lot of success playing football since youth," GHS coach Josh Buis said. "And he separated himself as one of the leaders. He's physical, a student of the game, understands defensive concepts and has a strong passion and desire to be physical."

Buis said because of the success Greencastle had last year -- having an undefeated regular season with a defense that allowed only 14 points until sectionals -- Smith will be well prepared to keep winning with the Grizzlies.

"(Franklin head coach Mike) Leonard is a tremendous coach and a tremendous man," Buis said. "(Smith) will fit in there because his senior class is used to having a lot of success."

Smith, who also wrestled while at Greencastle, said he may bulk up and move to linebacker, but he is comfortable anywhere on defense.

Franklin's season begins on Sept. 7 at Mount Union. Its first home game is Saturday, Sept. 14 against Butler at 6 p.m.