Millersville

In an era of run-heavy offenses, Roger Smith was a player ahead of his time. A tight end for the Marauders from 1985-88, Smith set Millersville records for career receptions, receptions in a season and longest reception. He was a three-time All-PSAC East selection, including first team recognition in his junior and senior seasons, and a two-time All-America honorable mention honoree.
 
While running backs and quarterbacks gained many of the accolades and attention, Smith’s impact was undeniable. Smith served as the top pass catcher during one of the top four-year stretches in Millersville history. In his career, the Marauders won back-to-back PSAC East titles in 1987-88, and a remarkable 20-4 record against the division.  His teammates and coaches voted him the offensive MVP during his sophomore season of 1987. He was the favorite target of quarterback Bret Stover as he accounted for 43 percent of his team’s receptions and 46 percent of the team’s receiving yards that season.
 
Smith was the first Marauder to lead his team in catches and receiving yards in three consecutive seasons and remains one of only four to accomplish the feat. He was also the first to compile at least 600 yards receiving and 40-plus catches in back-to-back seasons.
 
Following a record-setting season of 47 catches and 692 yards in 1987, Smith caught 41 passes for 624 yards while the Marauders rolled to the NCAA Division II playoffs and the ECAC Lambert Cup. Oft-regarded as the finest football team ever fielded at Millersville, the 1988 club won 10 games, made the school’s first NCAA Division II playoff appearance and reached the NCAA Quarterfinals against top-ranked North Dakota State. Smith rose to the occasion, catching two second quarter touchdown passes.
 
Even 26 years later, Smith ranks among Millersville’s top 10 in career receptions and career touchdown catches.
 
Smith graduated from Millersville in 1989 with a degree in industrial education. He graduated high school from Milton Hershey School, where he is now a Senior Division Student Program Leader, head junior varsity football coach, assistant varsity football coach and head coach of the track and field team. Smith and his wife, Crystal, are the parents of three children: Tiyana, Tyreese and Teeya. They reside in Susquehanna Township in Harrisburg, Pa.