After impressive performances for the academy and ‘A’ League sides, Smith made his senior debut at outside-centre against the Barbarians on March 17, 2006, at Welford Road.

In 14 seasons in the senior squad, Smith has been a member of four Premiership and three Anglo-Welsh Cup winning sides, as well as this season acting as a coach for the academy in their successful defence of the Under-18 League title.

“I am where I am today because of a lot of people, I owe each of them who have helped me along my way from school up until now for helping me get to this point,” said Smith.

“My wife, Alicia, has let me live out this ridiculous life and dream for all these years and I cannot thank her enough.

“I’m so glad I’ve been able to share this journey with her, my brothers and sisters, my friends and my parents.

“My mum was the driving force to sending me to Oakham School and has been such an emotional support for me throughout my career, she is an incredible lady.

“Of course, I can’t thank my dad enough either. He’s always been there for advice and was the person who introduced me to Tigers, helped me fall in love with this place and taught me so much about the club.

“I watched my dad play at Welford Road and in the past few seasons, when things have been tough and I’ve approached the end of my playing days, the motivation to keep going for me has been that I could have my sons Felix and Monty do the same.

“I’ve had my time and lived my dream, which I am so fortunate to have been able to do, but it’s time for me to take on my next challenge.”

Smith’s next challenge will be to take on a full-time role with the Tigers academy programme, where he has been appointed to the role of head coach for next season to work alongside academy manager Dave Wilks.