Smith's role on the teams he played for was that of the enforcer, which led the Hanover, Massachusetts, native to average 6.73 penalty minutes per game over his 60-game career.

Smith's athletic career started with boxing, which culminated in a split-decision loss in the Massachusetts heavyweight Golden Gloves final in 1984.

While training at the Hanover Police Boys' Club, his friend, Adam Frattasio, encouraged him to try hockey fighting.

Smith received additional invitations to continue playing in the States, particularly to finish out seasons for teams in various lower minor-leagues, but his new job as a police officer in Massachusetts limited his opportunities to participate in sporadic games with the intention of fighting the opponent's toughest player(s).

After retiring from hockey, Smith has worked as a coach within the Boston Bruins organization, showing their players how to defend themselves.