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Colton Smith was staging intense ping pong battles at age 7 when he realized it was time to move to a bigger court. Having flipped on the television and seen Rafael Nadal playing tennis, he was inspired to try.

Blue Chip Senior Colton Smith Is Signing With Arizona
© Contributed Photo

His dad, Brodie, a former high school tennis player, took him to a nearby club and he instantly fell in love.

"If we didn't get kicked off the court and my dad still made us leave, I would start crying," Smith said. "I always wanted to stay and play as long as possible."

Smith’s passion hasn’t wavered. The blue chip senior from Tenino, Washington developed into a sought-after recruit. He has committed to the University of Arizona and plans to sign his letter of intent this month. The signing period begins today.

Smith first became interested in the Wildcats after meeting with Arizona head coach Clancy Shields at hard court nationals in Kalamazoo last year.

"I just kind of felt a connection with him. He was kind of the first one who really reached out to me. He believed in me and wanted me there,” Smith said. “Once I took my visit at the beginning of the year, that was kind of the turning point. I really felt like I fit well there."