Royal’s Smith Opts to Play Football for Washington

SIMI VALLEY — Jermaine Smith, an All-Ventura County defensive back from Royal High, said Monday he will sign a letter of intent to play football at Washington.

Smith (6-feet, 180 pounds) visited Washington and Arizona State. He canceled trips to UCLA, Nevada Las Vegas and Colorado State after picking the Huskies.

“I like how (Washington) plays its defense,” he said. “It’s a lot of man to man, and that’s what I like playing the best. They have a good wining program and they made a lot of trips to the Rose Bowl.”

Smith, an All-Marmonte League selection, had one interception and nine pass deflections this season.

He is the third Royal player to make a college commitment. Besides Smith, center Steve Zirnite (Fresno State) and fullback Mike Reddington (Navy), tailback Jerome Lee is also expected to sign a letter of intent during the NCAA football signing period in February.