Smith Hits Milestone in Style

Seattle Seawolves scrum-half JP Smith has joined an exclusive club in Major League Rugby (MLR) history. In Week 10, Smith became the second player to reach 100 appearances in the competition, following Chicago Hounds’ Dylan Fawsitt.

Smith reached the milestone in a 28-22 win against the Chicago Hounds at home, with new team owners Marshawn Lynch and Marcus Peters in attendance.

Consistency and Dedication

Smith has made all 100 of his MLR appearances with the Seattle Seawolves since joining in 2019, starting in 90 of those matches. Reflecting on his achievement, Smith said, “It’s something special, especially doing it at the same club. I’ve been fortunate to have the Seawolves look after me and put their trust in me for so long.”

Smith credits his dedication to the small things, like gym workouts and extra training, for his longevity in the sport. “It’s a big part of what drives me as a player,” he said. “There have been a lot of ups and downs, but reflecting on it, you don’t know how quickly it comes upon you.”

A Journey from South Africa to Seattle

Smith’s journey to MLR began in South Africa, where he played for the Blue Bulls and other teams. After a phone call from former teammate Riekert Hattingh, Smith decided to join the Seattle Seawolves for their inaugural season in 2019.

Since then, Smith has become an integral part of the Seawolves, helping them win back-to-back championships in 2019 and 2020, and earning All-MLR First XV honors in 2022. He has also been named in two Honorable Mention XVs.

From Player to Eagle

Smith’s impact on the Seattle Seawolves has not gone unnoticed by the U.S. national team. In September 2024, he qualified for the USA Eagles on residency grounds and played in four Pacific Nations Cup games.

“It’s been a long road,” Smith said of his journey to becoming an Eagle. “There is so much sacrifice that myself and my wife have put into this. We’ve missed birthdays, funerals, and weddings. But it was a special moment to finally debut for the Eagles.”

Seattle: Home Sweet Home

Smith has made Seattle his home, working on the farm of Seawolves owner Adrian Balfour during the offseason and welcoming his first son, Luka, with his wife Katie at the end of 2024. “I didn’t think it was going to be a long-term stint for me in America,” Smith laughed. “But I’ve loved it so much, and here I am seven years later, loving it.”

Did you know?

• JP Smith is the first South African player to reach 100 MLR appearances.
• Smith’s wife, Katie, is a former professional soccer player.
• Smith’s favorite moment in a Seawolves jersey was winning the 2019 MLR Championship.

Pro Tip

Want to improve your scrum-half skills? Smith recommends focusing on your passing and decision-making. “The better you can pass the ball and make the right decisions under pressure, the more effective you’ll be on the field.”

Join the Conversation

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