BY MATT DIFILIPPO

Staff Writer

Johnathon Smith has moved around a lot in his life. After college, he wants to make sure other people move around, too.

Smith, a senior running back for the University of Delaware, is a sociology major with a minor in strength and conditioning. The sociology part was so he could get to know people a little better. Smith, a solid 6 foot 3, 230 lbs., wants to see children outside instead of in front of a television.

"The strength and conditioing is really my passion," Smith said. "I'm hoping to use it with the children of the new generation. They're kind of lacking exercise with all of the video games. Bring it back to duck-duck-goose and hopscotch and 'red light, green light' type of games."

Smith is originally from Chester, Pa. and played at Trinity High School in Camp Hill, Pa., before attending Maine Central Institute in 2003-04. After graduating from MCI, Smith played Division I football at the University of Connecticut for two years.

As a linebacker, Smith made 74 tackles and started four games in two seasons. Then he transferred to Delaware.

"It's a long process," Smith said. "I had to make a move to benefit me academically and on the field as well."

Smith started last season as a linebacker at Delaware, but then moved to running back. He shined on special teams, making 15 tackles and rushing for 68 yards on 12 carries.

"I've said many times that Johnathon is the best special teams player I have ever coached," Delaware coach K.C. Keeler said.

Now 24, Smith battled for a starting running back job in preseason. While he was never officially told the job was his, he had 18 carries in the season opener against Maryland, gaining 57 yards and scoring Delaware's only touchdown in a 14-7 loss.

"He played very well all during camp and played well in the agme at Maryland to open the season," Keeler said. "He brings such a physical presence to the backfield and his strength makes us a different kind of offense."

Last year, Delaware lost in the national championship game of the Football Championship Subdivision, finishing 11-4. The Blue Hens lost quarterback Joe Flacco, who now starts for the NFL's Baltimore Ravens, but their close loss to Maryland, a competitive team in the Football Bowl Subdivision, boded well for another strong season.

"I think we're working at making strides," Smith said. "Obviously, our whole goal is to get back to the national championship game."

Smith is on schedule to graduate next year, and may go to graduate school. He'll also continue with an unusual hobby -- collecting rare fish and animals. Smith owns an African Grey Parrot and has a 100-gallon tank with more than a dozen fish, including some Frontosa.

"I always wanted a water tank, but it's too much time," Smith said. "The next best thing is fresh water. They appear to be the same level as the salt water, but with less maintenance and a higher pH level."

Matt DiFilippo -- 861-9243

mdifilippo@centralmaine.com