Jen Smart’s story begins in Brandon, Manitoba, where she grew up surrounded by sports. From figure skating to softball, competition was always a part of her life, but it was softball that quickly became her passion. The game gave her the chance to travel across Canada and the U.S. during summer months, creating opportunities and memories that would stay with her forever. Her love for the sport carried her to Valley City State University, where she competed for four years at the collegiate level. When her playing career came to an end, Jen knew she wasn’t ready to step away from the game. Instead, she turned to coaching, determined to give back to the sport that had shaped her.

Over the years, she has coached at nearly every level—from 10U youth teams to spending a few seasons at the collegiate level. Today, she proudly serves as the Head Coach at Horace High School, where she leads the Hawks with the same passion and dedication she once brought as a player. Away from the field, Jen and her husband, Baron, live in Moorhead with their three kids—Jayden, Peyton, and Malik. Life is busy, often filled with chauffeuring the kids to football, wrestling, softball, and baseball, but Jen wouldn’t have it any other way. When she does find time for herself, she enjoys reading, relaxing at the lake, and jumping back into a softball game whenever possible.

As a coach, Jen believes adaptability is the most important trait a leader can have. No two teams are the same, and she has learned that the best way to bring out the most in her players is by meeting them where they’re at. She designs her practices to be fast-paced and fun, minimizing downtime and weaving in competitive challenges to keep her players engaged. She also believes in giving athletes ownership, whether it’s letting them choose between infield or outfield work or simply giving them a voice in practice. When players feel heard, she’s found, they give everything they’ve got.

Of course, coaching hasn’t been without its challenges. One of Jen’s earliest lessons was understanding that not every athlete would love the game as much as she did—and that was okay. Her role, she realized, was to nurture growth not only as athletes but as people. Trust has been another cornerstone of her philosophy. Players don’t always buy in right away, and earning their respect takes time. But once trust is built, communication opens, performance improves, and something special happens.

Throughout her career, Jen has collected countless memories, but a few moments stand out above the rest. In 2024, her 10U team fought their way through the state tournament after being knocked into the loser’s bracket. They had to beat the same opponent twice in one day to claim the title. The team came alive, winning the first game 10–2. In the second, Jen’s daughter delivered the final run, sealing another 10–2 win and the championship. It was a moment Jen will always treasure, not just as a coach, but as a mom.

The following summer, at the 2025 state tournament, Jen’s team once again found themselves battling back after an early loss. In a tense elimination game, one nervous player had the ball hit to her three times in the final inning. With encouragement from Jen and a few deep breaths shared between them, the young athlete rose to the moment—fielding all three plays cleanly to secure the win. The look on her face, and the embrace they shared afterward, became one of Jen’s most unforgettable memories.

Another proud moment came when a player who had been working tirelessly to master slapping finally got her first hit in a game. The excitement and confidence that followed reminded Jen why she coaches. It wasn’t just about wins or championships—it was about watching players grow, succeed, and find joy in the game.

For Jen, coaching is so much bigger than softball. It’s about being a positive presence in the lives of young athletes, whether that means teaching fundamentals in a way that finally clicks or simply being there to listen. She feels blessed for the relationships and memories the sport has given her and deeply grateful for the chance to impact the next generation of players. And through it all, she credits her husband, Baron, for his unwavering support behind the scenes. Coaching may take her away from home often, but his quiet strength has made it all possible.

Thank you, Jen, for making a lasting impact on our youth! 

2025 Coach of the Year Recipients: