Every football player knows that playing the sport means the threat of injuries. A torn knee, a bruised thigh or maybe even a broken rib all can happen on the grid iron.
Sophomore Nick Smith, however, has a more serious issue on his mindÑmortality. Smith plays quarterback for the sophomore football team, despite the fact that he only has one kidney.
Smith's kidney was diagnosed with cancer when he was three. The doctors caught it before it could spread, and ever since Smith has been healthy.
"I have always grown up in a football family," said Smith. "I grew up loving the game."
This love for the game is the reason Smith plays football at Flathead High. As a precautionary measure, Smith wears a protective rib pad at all times, even in practice. Even with the pad, most doctors advise against playing.
"I could die from playing," said Smith.
"Doctors say I shouldn't play. I like it enough to risk dying for the game."
Smith's mom needed to sign a consent form saying she won't sue the doctor for any sprots-related injuries. Even with parental consent, most doctors wouldn't sign release forms, says Smith.
"If I get hit and (my kidney) is injured, they have to put me on a machine for eight hours a day," said Smith.
Smith would have to live on the machine for the rest of his life. Due to football's violent nature, especially for quarterbacks, injury is a distinct possibility. One scary incident brought this reality to life for Smith back in eighth-grade football.
"I got hit real hard and I started coughing up blood," said Smith."I was okay."
On the other hand, the chances of suffering a life-threatening injury in football are highly unlikely.
"I have only had one head injury in my 25 years of coaching," said sophomore football coach Dan Hodge.
"(Smith) is in no more jeopardy than anybody else," said Hodge. "We only have one heart, liver, or kidney and the chances (of hurting them) are just as great."
"He does show a lot of courage," Hodge said of Smith. "He has a lot of internal drive."
Teammates also think highly of Smith devotion's to the game.
"He works real hard and helps lead the team," said sophomore Dylan McFarland.
Sophomore Dennis daSilva agrees:"(When you're hit) he helps you up, gives you confidence."
What makes Smith keep playing football despite the risks?
Says Smith:
"I love the sport."