The Sebastian River High School Football Players of the Week are Malachi “BabyFace” Smith and Gavyn Baker. These two student-athletes have made significant contributions on and off the field through their talent, heart, and leadership.
Malachi “BabyFace” Smith #20
Malachi “BabyFace” Smith, a standout student with a 4.0 GPA, aspires to study exercise science at either Florida A&M or Florida State University after graduating. For the past five years, he has excelled on the football field, showcasing his skills as both a defensive back and a wide receiver.
His most cherished football memory is last year’s thrilling season-ending victory against Satellite. “Everyone was happy…we went out there and did what we had to do and were having fun while doing it. It was Electric,” Smith told Sebastian Daily.
Beyond football, Smith enjoys playing basketball, running track, gaming, and spending quality time with friends and family.
The coaches at Sebastian River High School (SRHS) have left an indelible mark on Smith’s life: “All the coaches hold a special place in my heart. Each and every one in some way, shape, or form did something to make me a better player and/or a young man,” Smith stated.
Expressing profound gratitude for those who shaped his journey, he shared, “First, I want to thank God for all the blessings he has given me and the blessings I have yet to see; without Him, none of this would be possible. I would like to thank my parents, Mario and Kiera, for giving me this incredible life and all the sacrifices they made along the way. They never left my side. I also want to thank Coach Perry, Coach Jefferson, and Coach Freeman.
On a more personal level, they helped me through some very tough times. Those 3 exceeded their roles as coaches, and as mentors, their aid was incredible. Shoutout to Coach Rome as well for always keeping my spirits high lol. Lastly, I want to thank Ms. Kelly Green, who doesn’t get the recognition she deserves. My 4 years in Sebastian River High School Football have been ecstatic because of her,” Smith added.
Reflecting on the supportive community he found at Sebastian, Smith said, “After Graduation, I’ll be ready to face the real world, and without this beautiful family I’ve built here at Sebastian, that wouldn’t be possible.”
As Malachi “BabyFace” Smith continues to grow within the Sebastian River High School football program, Coach Perry has high expectations for his leadership and impact.
“We are hoping Malachi continues to develop in our program. With this development, we are looking for his leadership to play a significant role in his growth. We look forward to Malachi continuing to build on last year’s season to become an impactful player this year. With his growth, we are expecting him to understand his role better, which will allow him to play freely and make plays. Sooner than later, Malachi will be making big plays to help us along the season,” Perry told Sebastian Daily.
Gavyn Baker #46
Gavyn Baker has ambitions to continue his football career in college, but if that path doesn’t unfold, he plans to pursue a career as an electrician through trade school.
Baker has been dedicated to football since age six, starting with the Sebastian River Sharks Youth Football Association and now playing as an inside linebacker (ILB) at Sebastian River High School.
The coaches at SRHS have played a vital role in shaping Baker’s approach, instilling dedication, teamwork, and resilience, while also pushing him to achieve more than he ever imagined.
In his free time, Baker enjoys spending time with his family, fishing, and socializing with friends. His favorite football memory is the exhilarating moment when his team won the SSAA State Championship, with everyone celebrating the victory.
With heartfelt appreciation for those who shaped his journey, Baker expressed:
“I want to thank my Mom, Grandpa, and Grandma for sticking with me through thick and thin. I would also like to give a shout out to Coach Perry, Pastor John, Coach Jefferson, Coach Markei, and Coach Freeman for helping me become the man and player I am today on and off the field,” Baker shared.
Coach Perry
Coach Perry highlighted Gavyn Baker’s dedication and growth, saying, “He just works! He has worked extremely hard to find his niche in the team. He has taken pride in being a linebacker and learning his job to the best of his ability. Gavyn relishes hard work. Gavyn believes in the process.”
“Trusting our team process, Gavyn has become a two-year starter. Continued development will help him find his way to become impactful for us during this season. With his development and work ethic, Gavyn is going to have plenty of opportunities to help us in this season,” Perry added.
Coach PJ
Coach PJ praised Gavyn Baker’s leadership and resilience, saying: “Gavyn has demonstrated what it means to be a great football player and teammate during his four years as a Shark. He has overcome obstacles both on and off the field, revealing his true character and heart. At inside linebacker, Gavyn has helped to lead our defense and is always around the football, making tackles. Aside from plays on the field, Gavyn leads in the locker room by encouraging and pushing teammates to be better players and individuals.”
Team Mom Kelly Green
Mrs. Kelly Green, a key figure behind the scenes at Sebastian River High School, shared a rare and heartfelt reflection: “I normally don’t step in during the spotlight, since that’s usually reserved for the coaches and players to share their thoughts—but these two young men hold a very special place in my heart.”
“I remember meeting Baby Face for the first time back in ninth grade. You just couldn’t help but fall in love with that little face. I remember saying, ‘Look at that Baby Face,’ and the name stuck—he’s been Baby Face ever since. Beyond the nickname, he’s an extremely kind young man who works hard every single day to make his family proud. Malachi is confident and outgoing, super smart, and clearly going places. Just watch—this young man is destined to do big things. Sebastian, you’ll see it too,” Green added.
Mrs. Green shared her deep admiration for Gavyn Baker’s character and drive, saying, “Then there’s Gavyn Baker. He never ceases to amaze me with his determination and work ethic. He’s constantly hustling and grinding, chasing after everything he wants. What truly stands out, though, is his heart. I can’t tell you how many people have stopped me in the store or sent me a message just to share how thoughtful and helpful he’s been—whether it’s pulling weeds, cleaning out a car, or unloading groceries. Gavyn has never let challenges stand in the way of his goals and dreams, and I couldn’t admire him more for that.”
I’m beyond proud of both of these young athletes, and I’m honored to call them my football sons, Green added.
Upcoming Game
The SRHS Sharks’ next Varsity Football Game will be held on Thursday, August 28, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. at Fort Pierce Central High School, located at 4101 S. 25th St., in Fort Pierce.
