West Lafayette, Indiana, July 24, 2025
News Summary
Josh Smith, a standout from Attica High School, was honored with induction into the Indiana Football Hall of Fame. Despite not receiving a Purdue scholarship, he excelled at the U.S. Naval Academy, becoming a key player and team captain. His military service post-9/11 saw him flying reconnaissance missions. Smith’s achievements will be celebrated during the upcoming NFF Honors Brunch, which also recognizes notable student-athletes and community leaders.
West Lafayette, Indiana
Former Naval Academy football star Josh Smith was inducted into the Indiana Football Hall of Fame during the National Football Foundation (NFF) Joe Tiller Chapter’s annual honors reception held at Purdue University. This significant recognition emphasizes Smith’s remarkable athletic contributions both in high school and in his subsequent military and professional career.
Despite his outstanding high school performance at Attica High School, where he rushed for an impressive 3,004 yards and scored 449 points in his senior season, Smith did not receive a scholarship offer from Purdue University, a decision that surprised many in his community. His remarkable abilities on the field led the Attica team to become the Class A state runner-up in the year 2000.
Smith’s athletic dominance was noted from a very young age, as recognized by his brother, Jeremy Smith. Locals in Attica started to highlight his skills as early as the sixth grade, and there were high expectations that Purdue would recruit him. However, Josh Smith made the choice to attend the U.S. Naval Academy, where he believed he could obtain a robust education while also excelling in football.
At Navy, Smith continued to make his mark, leading the Midshipmen in tackles for three straight seasons and serving as team captain. His leadership and skill were recognized in 2009 when he was named to the Navy-Marine Corps Memorial All-Stadium team during the stadium’s 50th anniversary celebration. This achievement is indicative of his enduring impact at Navy, and further showcases his prowess as a football player.
After completing his football career, Smith dedicated his life to serving in the military. He flew intelligence surveillance reconnaissance missions in the Middle East after the tragic events of September 11, 2001, and later became a member of an elite unit based in Washington D.C. As he nears the conclusion of his 20-year naval career, Smith is transitioning into a pilot career with Delta Airlines.
During the induction ceremony into the Hall of Fame, Jeremy Smith delivered a deeply personal induction speech on behalf of his brother, who rejoiced in the recognition of his high school football achievements. Josh reflected on his career, prioritizing teamwork and collective effort, insisting that no victory or accomplishment is achieved alone.
The upcoming NFF Honors Brunch, scheduled for June 22, aims to celebrate various athletic, academic, and community successes in Northwest Indiana. This event intends to recognize student-athletes from across the region, alongside four Hall of Fame inductees including Smith. Tickets are available for $75 for the general public, $60 for NFF members, and $50 for students, with proceeds directed towards local charities. Attendees can expect additional honors and recognitions for scholar-athletes and community members who support local youth sports initiatives.
FAQ
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Q: What high school did Josh Smith attend?
A: Josh Smith attended Attica High School in Indiana. -
Q: What achievements did Josh Smith have in high school?
A: He rushed for 3,004 yards and scored 449 points in his senior season, leading Attica to become the Class A state runner-up in 2000. -
Q: Where did Josh Smith play college football?
A: He played college football at the U.S. Naval Academy. -
Q: What was significant about his military career?
A: After 9/11, he flew intelligence surveillance reconnaissance missions and served in an elite unit based in Washington D.C. -
Q: When is the NFF Honors Brunch taking place?
A: The NFF Honors Brunch is scheduled for June 22.
Key Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| High School Achievements | 3,004 rushing yards and 449 points in senior year |
| College Football | Played at the U.S. Naval Academy |
| Military Service | Flew intelligence missions after 9/11 |
| Hall of Fame Induction | Inducted into Indiana Football Hall of Fame |
| NFF Honors Brunch | Scheduled for June 22, with various recognitions |
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Additional Resources
- JConline: Former Attica Star Inducted into Indiana Football Hall of Fame
- JConline: National Football Foundation Chapter Honors Athletes
- On3: Northwest Indiana Legends to be Honored at NFF Honors Brunch
- MaxPreps: Where Super Bowl LIX Participants Played High School Football
- Wikipedia: Indiana Football Hall of Fame
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