Chico Record Holder and Educator Kami Smith Inducted into Hall of Fame

Smith's long jump and triple jump records at Chico High have stood for 39 years as she continues to inspire the next generation of athletes.

Apr. 19, 2026 at 11:10am

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a track and field athlete mid-jump, with bold brushstrokes and a vibrant color palette conveying the dynamic movement and spirit of the sport.A cubist interpretation of a track and field athlete's explosive energy and determination, capturing the essence of Kami Smith's decades-long legacy in Chico.Chico Today

Chico High alumna Kami Smith, who has held the school's long jump and triple jump records for 39 years, will be inducted into the Chico Sports Hall of Fame on May 18. After a successful high school and college career, Smith returned to Chico to coach and teach, passing on her passion for track and field to students. She is being recognized not only for her athletic achievements, but also for her lasting impact on the Chico community.

Why it matters

Smith's induction into the Chico Sports Hall of Fame highlights the importance of recognizing athletes who have made a lasting impact on their community, not just through their on-field accomplishments, but through their continued involvement in mentoring and inspiring the next generation. Her story demonstrates how sports can positively shape young people's lives and the value of giving back to one's community.

The details

Smith first gained a love for track and field from her athletic family, competing in long jump and triple jump at Chico High School. She broke her own records each year, qualifying for the CIF state meet multiple times. After one year of college competition, Smith returned to Chico to coach the next generation of jumpers alongside her high school coaches Dale Edson and Bob Noe. She has since taught at various grade levels, incorporating her track and field expertise into her physical education curriculum. Smith hopes that one day her long-standing records will be broken by a student she has inspired.

  • Smith first qualified for the CIF state meet her sophomore year of high school.
  • She took 7th in the triple jump her junior year and 8th her senior year at the state meet.
  • Smith's long jump and triple jump records at Chico High have stood for 39 years.
  • Smith will be inducted into the Chico Sports Hall of Fame on May 18, 2026.

The players

Kami Smith

A Chico High alumna who held the school's long jump and triple jump records for 39 years, and has continued to inspire the next generation of athletes through coaching and teaching.

Bob Noe

Smith's jumping coach at Chico High, who stood by her throughout her high school career and continues to be one of her biggest supporters.

Dale Edson

A longtime coach at Chico High who recognized Smith's maturity, work ethic, and ability to set high goals for herself and her team.

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What they’re saying

“I was surprised and shocked and honored. All my coaches are in the Hall of Fame — Dale Edson, Bob Noe, Chuck Sheley — and I've come full circle because I was one of those senior athletes. It's an honor to have this legacy in Chico. I grew up in this town and never thought I would have this type of legacy.”

— Kami Smith

“Always not quite there, and then I'd start getting a little nervous especially her senior year, then she'd always say, 'Don't worry Noe I got it.' And she did! Every stinking time. Talk about giving someone a heart attack.”

— Bob Noe, Chico High Jumping Coach

“She worked very hard, and I can never remember her missing a practice or a meet. She was very serious about her competition. She set(s) high goals for herself and sets high goals for her kids and they respond, and I think that's because Bob and I and the people that had the most impact in her life had high goals for her and she had high goals for herself.”

— Dale Edson, Longtime Chico High Coach

What’s next

The Chico Sports Hall of Fame and Senior Athletes Banquet where Smith will be inducted will take place on May 18, 2026.

The takeaway

Kami Smith's induction into the Chico Sports Hall of Fame is a testament to the lasting impact that dedicated athletes can have on their local community, not just through their on-field accomplishments, but through their continued mentorship and inspiration of the next generation. Her story highlights the power of sports to shape young people's lives and the importance of giving back.