Utah teen competing for Youth Athlete of the Year

SALT LAKE CITY — 15-year-old Hallie Smith from Cache Valley said soccer is her everything, but in her personal life, she’s dealing with some serious health problems.

Hallie has epilepsy and experiences seizures in unexpected situations. However, she said soccer helps her through it.

“I tend to have my seizures a lot, and like when I step on the field, it helps me forget about it,” Hallie said.

Hallie is currently in the running for Youth Athlete of the Year.

“Being a finalist is amazing, just knowing that I got this far,” she said.

Last year, Hallie had brain surgery to help improve her quality of life. Her father, Ty Smith, said she doesn’t let her epilepsy stop her.

“Whether we’re in surgery or whether she’s having a rough day with lots of seizures, she still always [has] a smile on her face. She never let’s it get her down,” Ty said.

And through it all, Hallie still finds joy and strength in soccer.

“I’m just happy I have the support I have,” she said.

If Hallie wins, she’ll take home the grand prize of $25,000 and be featured in an advertisement in Sports Illustrated.

The quarter final round ends Thursday, Sept 18, at 7 p.m. Those who would like to vote for Hallie can do so here.