Cameron Smith already preparing for life after rugby by tackling university degree

Leeds forward Cameron Smith has already begun preparing for life after rugby by taking on a degree in real estate and property management.

The 22-year-old forward burst onto the scene with Leeds in 2016 and has already made 58 first team appearances.

Alongside his full-time rugby with the Rhinos, Smith has taken on a five-year course in real estate and property management at Leeds Beckett University.

Smith said: “I’m currently three modules in to my first year.

“The amount of time we have on our hands as rugby players, especially during the season, it’s important as a young person to make sure you are doing something productive.

“Hopefully I’ve got 10 years ahead of me and go on to have a great career but I don’t want to get to that point where I’m 29 or 30 and don’t know what’s next. I wanted to get something in early doors so I can pursue a career after rugby.

“It is good to come home from training if you’ve had a bad day and can just drop rugby and just get my head on the course. It is really nice and I’m grateful that I’ve got something to focus on other than rugby.”

Smith’s rise to becoming an established Super League player has been impressive, with him also representing England Knights at international level.

He has long-term ambitions to become a regular starter at Leeds while making his debut for England’s senior side.

Smith added: “Obviously I want to start for the Rhinos long-term but I’m not looking too far ahead. I’m just taking it week by week, getting some consistency this year and hopefully kicking on.

“It is every young English kid’s goal to play for England. To play for the Knights was one of my greatest achievements so far.

“I want to become a starter at the Rhinos and be consistent week in, week out but long-term I want to be knocking on the international door. I’m not looking too far ahead, I just take it week by week and if I’m ticking the boxes and playing well then the rest of it will sort itself out.”

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