Panther Punter Carson Smith: A Tale of Resilience
Carson Smith's 42-yard punt average last season earned him a spot among the 5A's top punters. But what's not as well-known is the journey he took to get there. The Pomona Panthers' Class of 2027 kicker suffered a season-ending ACL injury in the summer of 2025. Smith's rehabilitation was grueling, but his determination paid off when he earned the starting role as a sophomore. This offseason, Smith has been working tirelessly to refine his technique, focusing on his footwork and follow-through. He's also been studying game footage to identify areas for improvement. As the Panthers prepare for the upcoming season, scouts are keeping a close eye on Smith's ability to maintain his consistency and accuracy under pressure. Will he be able to build on his impressive debut season and lead the Panthers to a successful campaign?