Gene Smith is a legendary figure at Reardan High School, where he devoted 63 seasons to coaching, teaching, and athletic administration. A Master’s graduate from the University of Idaho, Smith began his career at Sandpoint Junior High School before making Reardan his lifelong home.

During his tenure, Smith coached 24 seasons of football and basketball and 15 seasons as head track coach. On the football field, he guided his teams to 11 Bi-County championships and eight State B playoff appearances, including four semi-finals, two quarter-finals, a second-place finish, and a state championship in 1991. He concluded his football coaching career with an impressive 137-77-3 record.

Smith’s impact was even more pronounced on the basketball court. Over 24 seasons, he amassed a 501-152 record, averaging 21 wins per season. His teams captured 13 Bi-County championships and reached the State B tournament 21 times, making the semi-finals or better nine times. Under his leadership, Reardan won four state championships, finished second once, and claimed third place twice.

Beyond coaching, Smith served as athletic director for 23 years, contributing to WIAA Winter Sports Committees and multiple District Seven committees. His dedication to high school athletics earned him numerous honors, including Washington State B Coach of the Year (1975), Community Service Award (1977), Bi-County Athletic Director of the Year (1985), S.W.A.B.S. 25-Year Award (1990), and G.S.S.A. Coach of the Year (1991). He also coached in the All-Star Football Game and has been inducted into the Washington State Football Coaches Association Hall of Fame, the Washington State Basketball Coaches Association Hall of Fame, and the Inland Empire Sports Hall of Fame.

Gene Smith’s career stands as a testament to unwavering dedication, excellence, and the transformative impact one coach can have on generations of student-athletes.