Smithy joined UL from Lady Eleanor Holles School, where he was Director of Rowing. During his tenure, LEH won back-to-back national titles and medalled consistently across an array of major competitions.

Prior to working at LEH, Smithy served as Assistant Director of Rowing at St Paul’s School in London. He played a key role in the transformation of the club during the mid-2010s and during his tenure the club secured widespread success in national and international competition.

Smithy has led crews to World Championship success at junior level, BUCs Regatta (University), Henley Women’s Regatta and recently guided ULBC to a win in the Prince Albert Challenge Cup at Henley Royal Regatta.