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Allow me to introduce myself.

My name is Andy, and I feel fortunate to find myself writing in this space as the newest sports writer for the Smithville Herald.

Let me provide you a few details. I’m a proud graduate of both Platte County High and Truman State University and come to Smithville fresh off a 2½-year stint with the News-Press in St. Joseph.

As many of you do, I suffer as a loyal supporter of both the Royals and Chiefs, and I love this town’s wide array of barbeque eateries.

While I may be an unfamiliar face to some, my history with the Warriors goes back a full decade.

Back in my days as an extremely mediocre high school runner, I competed on the track alongside standout runners like Cody Boswell and Alex Moore. I took in my first prep wrestling dual in Smithville’s gymnasium and watched a preview of the eventual state championship match between Cal Middleton and Jordan Hobbs.

No matter the sport, I vividly recall the Warriors’ players, coaches and fans as class acts and worthy rivals. In this regard, little has changed.

While covering the Midland Empire Conference from St. Joseph, I kept an eye on Smithville’s athletic programs and was always impressed with what I saw.

The Warriors’ soccer and cross country programs have evolved into perennial powers. A young football team showed vast amounts of promise, and a steady stream of talent has coursed through the school — from Andrew Jones to Vanessa Van Bleisem to Ben Barrows.

Scott Tittrington, whose position I inherit, did a phenomenal job in this same role. His passion for and connection with each athletic program showed through, and I hope to follow his lead into 2010.

During the course of my young career, I’ve been lucky enough to cover a wide variety of subjects. I’ve talked to Jared Allen and Zack Greinke and picked Mel Tjeerdsma’s brain amidst Northwest Missouri State’s half-decade of Division II dominance. Every time I get a taste of the larger level of competition, I always gravitate back toward the high school arenas that speckle the state.

What I love most about my chosen profession and current position is the inherent drama that oozes out of every game, every play. So many attitudes and emotions hinge on each result, and the passions that emanate from every contest are the most pure and genuine you’ll ever hope to find. That’s what I love about this job, and that’s why I’m here.

The future looks incredibly bright here in Smithville, and I can’t wait to tell you about it.

Sports writer Andy Meyer can be reached at 389-6632 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

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