Tampa Catholic High School is proud to announce the induction of Dena Glover Smiley, Class of 1998, into the Tampa Catholic Athletic Hall of Fame. A multi-sport standout during her time at TC, Dena’s remarkable accomplishments both on and off the field exemplify the Crusader spirit of faith, excellence, and family.
Born and raised in Tampa, Dena began her athletic journey at Incarnation Catholic School, where she developed her skills and passion for sports. She joined Tampa Catholic in 1995, following in the footsteps of her older brother, Danny Glover ’95. At TC, she quickly established herself as a force to be reckoned with, excelling in basketball, volleyball, and softball.
While she was a strong competitor in all three sports, softball was where Dena truly shined. She played varsity softball all four years, serving as team captain during her junior and senior years. A highlight of her high school career came in 1997, when she led the Crusaders to victory in the State Championship, a moment that cemented her legacy as one of Tampa Catholic’s greatest athletes.
Dena’s contributions extended beyond athletics. She was a committed leader in the TC community, actively participating in the LIFE Club, SADD, Key Club, and serving as a retreat leader for two years. Her well-rounded involvement reflected her dedication to both her faith and her fellow Crusaders.
Dena’s athletic excellence earned her a scholarship to the University of Tampa, where she continued to make waves. As a freshman, she was named to the First Team Sunshine State Conference, showcasing her impact on the collegiate level. In 2001, she graduated with a degree in marketing, paving the way for a successful professional career.
Today, Dena lives in Indiana and remains a proud advocate for her Tampa roots. A self-proclaimed “sports fanatic,” she continues to cheer on her home-state teams, particularly the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the University of Tampa Spartans.
In recognizing Dena’s achievements, Tampa Catholic celebrates her contributions to the school’s storied athletic history and her lasting impact as a leader. Her induction into the Athletic Hall of Fame serves as a testament to her dedication, talent, and the values she carried forward from her days as a Crusader.
Congratulations, Dena Glover Smiley, on this well-deserved honor!