Smith began playing at major junior level for the Calgary Hitmen of the Western Hockey League (WHL) in 1995–96.
Smith began his professional career in 2000, splitting the season between the ill-fated Detroit Vipers of the International Hockey League (IHL) and the Johnstown Chiefs of the ECHL.
Smith impressed for the Ice Pilots as well, and was rewarded with a call up to the American Hockey League (AHL) from the Springfield Falcons.
Under Smith's often inspiring leadership, the Phoenix reached both the Knock-Out and Challenge Cup finals for the first time in their history as well as once again competing in the play-offs.
Despite the success brought to Manchester by the team, off-ice financial problems arose and in the summer of 2009, the organisation announced that it would compete in the English Premier Ice Hockey League for the 2009-10 season.