Art Smith, whose employment at the Church Farm School began in 1978, has since worn many hats during his career at the all-boys boarding school in Exton.

The houseparent, science teacher, disciplinarian, and longtime wrestling coach recently won his 300th career dual meet when his Griffins defeated Bristol, 67-12, in a Bicentennial Athletic League match, writes Nate Heckenberger for PaPrepLive.com.

“It’s a nice thing, I guess,” Smith said. “It says the program is on a good track. It’s really just about the kids.”

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This year marks the 30th that Smith has been at the helm of the wrestling program, which is often comprised of teenagers who’ve had no prior experience in the sport. Smith, whose assistant coaches are all alumni of the program, embraces not only the challenge of teaching the sport but also the lessons learned from competing.

“He enforces grit and not giving up and refusing to lose,” junior Sebastian Corrales said of Smith. “There’s no excuses in our program.”

“It’s not about wins,” said Senior Gyamfi, a senior who wrestles at 138 pounds. “It’s about how hard you work on this team. I’m proud to be a part, and I feel happy for Mr. Smith because he’s had a lot of influence on a lot of kids.”

CFS held a dinner in Smith’s honor, with alumni sending congratulatory messages via video. Click here to view it.

Click here to read more about Art Smith and the impact he’s had at Church Farm School at PaPrepLive.com.

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