Rugby’s Charlie Smith a model of determination in overcoming injury
He’s a model footballer always getting in strife for having cuts and bruises on his face. But if seven surgeries won’t make him give up the game, nothing will.
Wentworth Courier
Don't miss out on the headlines from Wentworth Courier. Followed categories will be added to My News.
His face is well known in modelling circles but it’s quick hands and fast feet Charlie Smith wants to be grabbing attention for.
Even his surgeon has told Smith modelling might be a better option than rugby but the 22-year-old is refusing to give up on his dream of playing the game at the highest level
Smith, 22, on Saturday watched from the sidelines as his club Easts missed out on a spot in the season decider of the Shute Shield with yet another shoulder injury.
HAPPY DAYS: Why this ironwoman is smiling
SPECIAL: Incredible stories behind NRL’s breakout rookies
THE MASKED SAILOR? How COVID will affect Sydney-Hobart
TROUBLE: Most dangerous players in Shute Shield
Following six surgeries - including consecutive reconstructions - the open side breakaway from Bronte was playing his first full season of rugby in three years when he injured his shoulder in round 10 of the club rugby competition against Penrith.
My surgeon told me modelling might be a better option than rugby
“I was leading the tackle count as well,” he said. “It just got caught and dislocated.
“The surgeon is having another look to see what they can do to make it structurally stronger.
“My surgeon told me modelling might be a better option than rugby.
“I just love playing rugby. When you don’t do what you love you forget how it makes you feel.
“Coming back and playing with my friends and the club I love I know I made the right decision. I just love it. I have aspirations.’’
But taking his surgeons advce is not an option for Smith, who said he is ready for his rehabilitation.
“I just have to get in and do what I do best, rehabilitate,” he said.
“I have to take my wins when I can. To come back from six surgeries and do so well, that’s a positive.
“I still want to be a Waratah. I love rugby.”
A personal trainer at the F45 gym at Rose Bay, Smith has been playing rugby since he was six, and was part of the 1st XV at The Scots College, played for NSW, GPS and the Australian Barbarian’s in 2015.
“I work at the gym and do modelling when I get a job,’’ he said. “I enjoy it.
“My agent, they are very understanding.
“I’ve rocked up with a black ear, a cauliflower ear and stitches
“I’d like to think I bring a different attitude to how I model.’’
MORE RUGBY
ACCIDENT: Young star will never play rugby again
INCREDIBLE: Footballer plays with four broken bones
SPEEDSTER: How this rugby star rebuilt himself