Smit currently leads the nation in the javelin (Kirby Lee/The Sporting Image)

1. You were recently named the Atlantic Coast Conference Outdoor Track & Field Performer of the Week after winning the javelin throw at the Charlotte Invitational. The posted mark of 242-09 (74.00m) to break your own school record established last season and currently leads the nation as well. How have you felt during the season so far and did you expect to throw this far early in the season?

That was only my first competition of the season, so it came as a big surprise to me and my coach. It just predicts big things for the upcoming season.

2. Originally for Pretoria, South Africa, what stood out about the Virginia Tech program and how has your tenure in the United States been so far?

I was impressed by the credentials and personalities of the coaching staff. My stay here in the U.S. so far has been very exciting and I have learned a lot.

3. As the South African High School national champion in 2001 and the runner-up at the 2002 South African Junior Championships, what have been some of your more memorable moments looking back on your high school career?

Being ranked 4th in the world for my age (16) with a throw of 66.67m aldong with being ranked 2nd in the world for my age (17) on the world under 18 list with a throw of 70.75m. Ending my junior career ranked 12th on the world junior list with a throw of 72.89m is another highlight as well.

4. What will you be focusing on the most in training as we head into the heart of the outdoor season?

Probably the most important for me is to stay healthy, and secondly fixing my technique, working on fixing my mistakes.

5. After finishing 17th at the 2004 NCAA Championships in Austin, Texas, what was the experience like for you and what are some of your goals for this collegiate season?

My goal going into the 2004 NCAA Championships was to make the final, so my 17th finish was very disappointing for me. For this season to improve each meet following my first competition, and finish the season on a high note.

6. What is the strongest part of your technique in the javelin that you feel can take yourself to the next level?

Having the ability to accelerate my approach and “channeling” my speed and power into the javelin.

7. What kind of exercises do you practice the most in the weight room that help you the most in your event? Do you incorporate any plyometric exercises?

The things that I do in the weight room that help me the most are Olympic lifts and ab work. Yes, I apply plyometric exercises at least 1-2 times a week.

8. Considering the time you have to wait for the outdoor season to arrive, what do you focus on during the indoor season to prepare yourself for your event?

Mainly getting stronger in the weight room, strengthening my core, and working on flexibility by doing medicine balls.

9. What have you enjoyed the most about during your time at Virginia Tech so far as a student-athlete?

I have enjoyed having the privilege of meeting and working with many amazing people. Being part of an institution such as Virginia Tech gave me the ability to excel in my sport and become a better person.

10. Do you pay close attention to your competitors within your conference and on the national scene?

No, not really. I concentrate mostly on the things I am trying to do to become a better thrower, because once you focus on the rest of you competition you lose track of what you need to accomplish.

11. Who are some of the most influential people in your life and what is some of the best advice that they have given you?

Firstly my family, who have always been supportive of me from day 1, telling me to “never give up.” Also, having the privilege to train with my heroes Jan Zelezny and Steve Backley in the spring of 2002 in Potchefstroom, South Africa had an enormous influence on my life.