SacramentoMonarchs.com caught up with Kim Smith today to ask her some very important questions. Kim, who is currently playing for Dexia Namur in Belgium, fills us in on her goals for the off-season and her thoughts on her team.
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How much pride do you take in representing Canada?
I take a lot of pride in representing Canada. There is something about wearing my country's name across my chest that means so much to me. I consider it a great honor and it is still one of my biggest dreams to play for Canada in the Olympics!
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Have you had a chance to visit any family?
As soon as our Monarchs season ended I drove back up to BC and spent about a week with my family. My training camp for Canada was back East in Ontario, Canada so it was a short visit, but anytime I can see family and friends back home I take advantage of it.
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What is Belgium like?
Belgium has been good so far, it is very beautiful here and the people are all very nice! I have been hearing all about B's (Brunson) playing days here and a few fun stories! I have been trying to remember the little French that I learned back in grade 7. I am very thankful that I can understand what people are talking about and I have enough to get by should I need any questions answered!
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Are there any activities besides basketball youre planning while overseas?
I haven't really thought of any other activites that I am going to get into. The first couple weeks have been more so exploring the city and getting into a routine. I have almost finished watching all five seasons of Alias and once that is over, I will definetly need a replacement.
I would love to visit and explore some areas while I am here; I have always been intrigued by history, so it is neat to visit all the historical sites around these parts. My town used to be protected by a Citadel and the oldest wall has been dated back to 859, it was amazing to walk around it.
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How much opportunity does playing overseas give players for improving their game?
I think overseas is a great opportunity to improve your game. Especially for me as I didn't get any minutes during the season, so this is a time for me to put all the skill work I practiced during the Monarchs season into games.
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What are your goals for this off-season?
My goals for the off-season are to help my team win some EuroLeague games while continuing to improve myself. I think continuing to work on my shot, creating opportunities for myself and of course, always practicing defense!!
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How will you deal with the language barrier in Belgium?
Thankfully the grade 6 and 7 French are coming in handy! As long as we don't travel to the Flemish part of Belgium I can get by.
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Why did you choose to play for Dexia Namur?
I chose to play for Dexia because I had heard great things about the team and the town from past players. I thought it would be a good first overseas experience for me.
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What do you miss the most about home?
The things I miss most about home are my friends and family. That is the hardest part for me.
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What would you like to say to Monarchs fans?
I would like to say hello to all the Monarchs fans... I know everyone is working hard to make sure next year is a Championship year, so get ready!
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