He is known for his playing career at the University of Alberta, where he is described as "one of the most outstanding running backs in the history of Golden Bear football".
Smarsh was also captain of the Golden Bears football team for four seasons and set many CIAU records.
Though was selected in the 1976 CFL Draft by the Saskatchewan Roughriders in the 7th round, 61st overall,[1] Smarsh decided to pursue a career in education, and worked for Edmonton Public Schools where was a physical education teacher, also coaching high school sports.
Smarsh has also served as offensive coordinator of the Golden Bears (1985) and as a coach of the Edmonton Wildcats.
[4] Smarsh was named head coach of the Edmonton Huskies in November 2007; he would serve in that capacity until he was let go in September 2009.