Smith happy to be part of Warriors family
Hhalf-joking yesterday when admitting he is in no hurry to leave his parents’ home in Stirling because he can count on his mum to do his washing and cooking. However, the 21-year-old was quite serious when explaining that the reason he did not follow in the family sporting tradition was the environment.
“I tried football in primary six for a year, but it’s not like a family,” he said. “You get a lot of abuse in football now and I wasn’t keen for that. Football’s obviously still a team, but there’s a lot of abuse in it and it’s too critical.
“I like encouragement over abuse. Rugby is just more of a family. Everyone sticks up for each other and there’s a real close bond.”
He says so having benefited hugely from the support of one man in particular – Callum Gibbins, who was signed for the Warriors last summer.
But while seen as a key recruit, Gibbins has spent months on the sidelines during which he has encouraged fellow flanker Smith to seize the opportunity presented.
“I wasn’t expecting any of this,” said Smith. “It was quite fortunate for me that Cully [Gibbins] was struggling. That gave me my shot and I took it well.
“I’ve managed to get a few games under my belt. He helps me with everything. We talk through our games together.
“He gives me little pointers when he’s watching my games, he’s always wishing me good luck before a game, he’s a real good mentor to have. I’m just stealing it all just now.”
He has benefited, too, from coach Dave Rennie’s attitude to life without the club’s international stars. He added: “He’s said if you’re playing well you’ll keep the shirt, pretty much, even if the Scotland boys come back. It’s really encouraging for young boys like myself and George [Horne], and Matt Fagerson. We’ve all taken it well.”