Waynesburg University Athletics

The Waynesburg University football team welcomed back an old, familiar face to its coaching ranks as its offensive coordinator prior to the 2016 season. Former Yellow Jacket player and coach Chris Smithley returns after spending four years with President’s Athletic Conference (PAC) rival Washington & Jefferson.
 
Smithley served as W&J’s special teams coordinator and secondary coach. During his tenure, the Presidents compiled 59 interceptions, including PAC-leading marks of 21 and 16 in 2014 and 2013, respectively. Washington & Jefferson ranked ninth in the country in interceptions in 2014.
 
When it came to special teams, Smithley pushed his players to the top of the conference in nearly every major return category in 2013. That year, Presidents individuals ranked first in kick return average, kick return touchdowns and punt return average. In 2015, W&J led the PAC in punt return average and punt return touchdowns, while finishing second in kick return average.
 
Prior to arriving at W&J, Smithley spent three seasons as a coach with the Yellow Jackets. He worked with the Waynesburg defensive linemen for two years under head coach Rick Shepas, while also coaching the team’s defensive backs for one season. The Bolivar, Pennsylvania, native also served as the Jackets’ academic coordinator.
 
Over his seven years on the sidelines, Smithley has coached three All-Americans, a national award finalist, five all-region selections and 27 All-PAC performers (11 first-team picks). He has also helped mentor a combined 23 players of the week on the conference, regional and national levels. The newest addition to the Jacket coaching ranks has also played a role in players receiving six prestigious academic awards.
 
Smithley’s playing career at Waynesburg included two years at quarterback prior to two seasons as a fullback/h-back. He enjoyed his most success on the field as a senior in 2008. That season, he finished third on the team with 23 catches for 158 yards and a touchdown.
 
Prior to coming to Waynesburg, Smithley was a three-year letterman at Laurel Valley High School, a first-team all-conference selection and a Ken Lantzy All-Star. He was also active as a basketball and hockey player.
 
Smithley currently resides in Washington, Pennsylvania, with his wife, Lindsey.