Portageville's Jamarion Smith celebrates second straight Semoball Award

Jamarion Smith of Portageville, center, accepts the Cook, Barkett, Ponder and Wolz Football Offense Athlete of the Year award from Matt Davis of Cook, Barkett, Ponder and Wolz, left, and keynote speaker Brian Jordan, right, at the Semoball Awards, presented by Mercy, on July 14, 2024.

Bailey Bagot ~ Silver Landing Photography

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. — For the second consecutive year, Jamarion Smith claimed the Cook, Barkett, Ponder and Wolz Offensive Football Athlete of the Year at the Semoball Awards at La Croix Church on Friday, July 12, solidifying his status as a southeast Missouri gridiron legend.

“Winning it the second time around is indescribable,” Smith said. “This isn't just some award, it's a symbol of the countless hours I've poured into this. I'm incredibly humbled to win this award for the second time. It's a true blessing, and I couldn't have done it alone. I'm so grateful to everyone who's supported me on this amazing journey, and I want to thank the organizers and sponsors for making this possible."

Smith's senior season was nothing short of spectacular. He shattered Portageville's single-season rushing record with 2,463 yards and an astounding 47 touchdowns, also earning him the prestigious Carr Trophy.

Smith didn't just carry the football; he carried the hopes and dreams of an entire community on his shoulders. With each explosive run, each bone-jarring collision, and each triumphant touchdown, he further solidified his status as a hometown hero.

Mercy is the presenting sponsor of the Semoball Awards, the area’s premier awards show recognizing student-athletes and coaches in Southeast Missouri.

Smith, now with Southeast Missouri State, is ready to do whatever it takes to help his new team. With the Redhawks' season opener just days away, the anticipation is building for Smith's debut in a new uniform, but he remains grounded and focused.

“Winning this award is not just a personal achievement, but a testament to the greatness yet to come,” he said. “I want to thank everyone who believed in me, challenged me, and inspired me to reach for the stars.”

Looking ahead to his collegiate career, the transition from high school standout to college freshman is never easy, but Smith sees it as just another obstacle to overcome, another chapter in a story defined by perseverance, dedication, and a refusal to settle for anything less than greatness.

"College football is a fresh start, a chance to prove myself all over again,” Smith concluded. “These awards are a reminder of what's possible when you never give up. and that hard work and overcoming adversity are the keys to success. I'm ready for whatever comes next."