Second row Matt Smith, 22, is from Royston, near Barnsley, and played for Sandal in his formative years whilst attending Silcoates School. From here he was spotted by the Leeds Carnegie Academy and spent two years in the Academy before moving to the University of Wales Institute Cardiff (UWIC) to study for a degree in Sports Conditioning, Rehabilitation and Massage. He represented UWIC in three Finals at Twickenham as well as being selected for England Students before joining Cornish Pirates.

Although a proud Yorkshireman, Matt was actually born in Hexham, Northumberland, while his father Terry was serving in Newcastle with the Army.

Matt came from a football background and became a goalkeeper for his local junior team and also played for Barnsley FC Academy and Barnsley Schools FA, and was even offered trials at Manchester United.

During his time at Silcoates, Matt played first team rugby for the School and was selected for Leeds Carnegie Academy where he spent two years, also playing for Yorkshire U18s at that time.

The player he most admires in the game is New Zealand second rower Brad Thorn and his childhood hero was Martin Johnson. The most memorable game he has played in was the 2011-12 Championship final. His favourite film is Coach Carter, although he admits he also likes to watch a good Chick Flick!