Table of Contents
- JP Smith: Seattle Seawolves Legend Reaches MLR Centurion Status
- JP Smith’s MLR Milestone: An Expert’s Take on Longevity, Legacy, and the Future of Rugby in America – Time.news Exclusive
In a league often defined by its transient nature, JP Smith stands as an unwavering constant. The Seattle Seawolves scrum-half recently etched his name into Major League Rugby (MLR) history, becoming only the second player to achieve 100 appearances. What does this milestone mean for Smith, the Seawolves, and the future of MLR?
Smith joins Chicago Hounds hooker and USA Eagle, Dylan fawsitt, in this exclusive club, a testament to his dedication, resilience, and impact on the league.
The Importance of 100 Appearances
Reaching 100 appearances in any professional sport is a remarkable achievement. In the context of MLR, a league still in its relative infancy, it signifies something even greater.It represents longevity, commitment, and a significant contribution to the growth and development of rugby in North America.
“It is also a testament to the days that you don’t really want to do it. The days you don’t want to go to the gym, or you don’t want to do the extra stuff,” Smith saeid, reflecting on his journey.
“It’s a big part of what drives me as a player is doing those small things, the little things that will provide the longevity of yoru career.”
“There have been a lot of ups and downs. Reflecting on it, you don’t know how quickly it does come upon you.”
From South Africa to Seattle: A Journey of Resilience
Smith’s path to MLR stardom wasn’t always clear.His career faced a turning point before a timely phone call changed everything.
In 2018, Riekert Hattingh, Smith’s former Blue Bulls teammate and than-Seattle captain, reached out, attempting to lure the half-back to North America for MLR’s inaugural season.
Initially, Smith declined, opting to pursue his rugby aspirations in South Africa.
As a teenager, Smith impressed Bulls Director of Rugby Heyneke Meyer while playing for the Border Bulldogs, paving the way for his eventual move to Pretoria.
Fresh out of Queen’s College in Queenstown, he quickly adapted to the demands of elite rugby, representing the Bulls’ various age-grade teams.
However, his time with the Bulls wasn’t without its challenges.Despite his talent and potential, Smith struggled to secure consistent game time due to established players ahead of him.
“I left school, went to the Blue Bulls, and was a professional rugby player at 19,” Smith recounted.
“You’re getting paid a salary and have all these nice, flashy things. You hit your peak at a young age. I know those things caught up with me really quickly.
“I’m so happy it did happen to me because I wouldn’t have learned. I wouldn’t have been humbled in the way I was.”
“You get all that fame, nice cars, sponsored cars. This and that. It overpowered me. it put me in a place where I was very high up and then rock bottom.
“It helped me grow my faith and to realize that you’ve got to be disciplined.”
After his stint with the Bulls, Smith joined the Free State Cheetahs and later returned to the Eastern Cape with the Southern Kings and Eastern Province Kings in 2018.
finding his momentum stalled, Smith reconnected with Hattingh, inquiring about a potential opportunity in Seattle. The rest, as thay say, is history.
Seattle Seawolves: A Perfect Fit
smith’s arrival in Seattle proved to be a turning point. In his first season,he played a crucial role in the Seawolves’ back-to-back championship victories. He earned an All-MLR First XV selection in 2022 and has received two Honorable Mention XV nods.
When asked about his favorite memories in a Seawolves jersey, Smith immediately points to the 2019 title and the team’s unexpected journey to the 2022 Championship Final, where they narrowly lost to Rugby New York.
Seattle has become more than just a rugby destination for Smith; it’s home. He now spends his off-seasons working on the Pennsylvania farm of Seawolves owner, Adrian Balfour. The team even sells wool from the farm’s sheep.
At the end of 2024, he and his wife, Katie, welcomed their first son, Luka.
“I didn’t really think it was going to be a long-term stint for me in America,” Smith laughed.
“I always thought I’d play a year or two years and then go to play somewhere else. I’ve just loved it so much. I’ve loved Seattle so much. Here I am seven years later and loving it.”
“There were growing pains, coming from a professional club in South Africa to Seattle in those early stages.”
“But I enjoyed that. I enjoyed being part of something that was growing and a part of something that was completely new. It was refreshing. It is indeed where I was in my life at that stage.”
Becoming an Eagle: International Recognition
In September, Smith achieved another significant milestone, earning his first cap for the USA Eagles.
Qualifying on residency grounds, the scrum-half featured in four Pacific Nations Cup games as scott Lawrence’s team finished fourth in Japan.
This international recognition was a reward for Smith’s consistent excellence in MLR and the sacrifices he has made throughout his career.
“It’s been a long road,” Smith said. “There is so much sacrifice that myself and my wife have put into this.”
“We have missed birthdays, funerals, and weddings. We have missed all those things, and we miss our families.”
“It (Smith’s Test debut) was a special moment. If you had asked me in 2019 that in six years’ time, I’d be playing in America for the Eagles and have this whole life set up, I would have laughed at you.”
“I’m so blessed to be here. It’s just been amazing to see where I am at the moment compared to where I was.”
The Future of JP Smith and the Seattle Seawolves
What does the future hold for JP Smith and the Seattle Seawolves? With Smith’s experience, leadership, and unwavering commitment, the Seawolves are well-positioned to continue their success in MLR. His influence extends beyond the field,inspiring younger players and contributing to the growth of rugby in the United States.
Smith’s Impact on MLR
JP Smith’s journey is a powerful example of the opportunities that MLR provides for international players. His success story can attract more talent to the league, further enhancing its competitiveness and global appeal.
The Seawolves’ Continued success
With a strong core of players and a dedicated coaching staff, the Seattle Seawolves are poised to remain a dominant force in MLR. Smith’s leadership will be crucial in guiding the team through future challenges and striving for more championships.
FAQ: JP Smith and MLR
How manny appearances does JP Smith have in MLR?
JP Smith has made 100 appearances in Major league Rugby, making him only the second player to reach this milestone.
What teams has JP Smith played for?
JP Smith has played for the Border Bulldogs, Blue Bulls, Free state Cheetahs, Southern Kings, Eastern Province Kings, and currently plays for the Seattle Seawolves in MLR. He also represents the USA Eagles internationally.
When did JP Smith join the Seattle Seawolves?
JP Smith joined the Seattle Seawolves in 2018 after being contacted by his former teammate Riekert Hattingh.
What are JP Smith’s achievements in MLR?
JP Smith has won two MLR championships with the Seattle Seawolves, was selected to the All-MLR First XV in 2022, and has received two Honorable Mention XV nods.
Pros and Cons of a Long Career in MLR
Pros:
- Legacy: Players like JP Smith leave a lasting legacy on the league and inspire future generations.
- Stability: Long-term players provide stability and leadership within their teams.
- Fan Base: They build a strong connection with the local fan base, increasing team support.
- Growth of the Sport: Their presence contributes to the overall growth and popularity of rugby in North America.
Cons:
- Physical Toll: A long career can take a significant physical toll on players.
- Sacrifices: players often have to make personal sacrifices, such as missing family events.
- Competition: Maintaining a high level of performance over many years requires constant dedication and hard work.
JP Smith’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, dedication, and the transformative impact of Major League Rugby. His 100th appearance is not just a personal milestone but a celebration of the league’s growth and the enduring spirit of rugby in america.
What are your thoughts on JP Smith’s achievement? Share your comments below!
Major League Rugby (MLR) is gaining traction, and players like JP Smith are shaping its narrative. Recently, the Seattle Seawolves scrum-half reached his 100th appearance, a meaningful milestone celebrated across the league. To delve deeper into Smith’s achievement and its implications, Time.news spoke with rugby expert dr.anya Sharma, a renowned sports analyst with a focus on professional rugby leagues.
Time.news: Dr. Sharma,thank you for joining us. JP Smith reaching 100 appearances in MLR is quite remarkable. What does this milestone signify for the league?
Dr. Anya Sharma: It’s a tremendous achievement, no doubt. in a relatively young league like MLR, reaching 100 appearances speaks volumes about a player’s longevity, dedication, and impact. It highlights the growing stability and professionalism within MLR,showcasing that players can build lasting careers hear. Smith’s accomplishment shines the spotlight on the staying power that MLR can offer, an enticing prospect to prospective players.
Time.news: The article mentions that Smith is only the second player to achieve this feat, following Dylan fawsitt. Why is reaching such a milestone so challenging in professional rugby?
Dr. Sharma: Professional rugby is incredibly demanding, physically and mentally. The average career length is 5-7 years,so playing long enough to reach 100 appearances requires immense resilience,discipline,and a bit of luck with injuries. As Smith himself notes, it’s about consistently doing the “little things” – the extra gym sessions, the unwavering commitment even on days you don’t feel like it.
Time.news: Smith’s journey to MLR stardom wasn’t straightforward. He faced challenges in South Africa before finding his place with the seattle Seawolves. What can other aspiring rugby players learn from his experiences?
Dr. Sharma: Smith’s story illustrates the importance of adaptability and seizing opportunities. He wasn’t an immediate superstar, but he persevered, honed his skills, and ultimately found a league where he could thrive. For young players,the lesson is to remain open to different paths,embrace challenges,and never underestimate the value of hard work and networking,as his connection with Riekert Hattingh highlights.
Time.news: The article talks about Smith’s time with the Blue Bulls and the challenges he faced as a young,professional player.How common is it for young athletes to struggle with the pressures of early success?
Dr. Sharma: It’s a very common scenario. sudden fame and financial security can be overwhelming for young athletes. Smith’s honesty about those early struggles is commendable. His experience underscores the need for strong support systems, mentorship, and financial literacy programs to help young athletes navigate those challenges and maintain perspective.
Time.news: Smith’s arrival in Seattle proved to be a turning point, leading to back-to-back championships and individual accolades. What makes the Seattle Seawolves such a successful franchise within the MLR?
Dr. Sharma: The Seawolves have built a strong team culture based on loyalty, shared values, and a commitment to community. Smith’s dedication to the team,even working on the owner’s farm during the off-season,exemplifies this. Building a cohesive team environment is crucial for success in any sport, and the Seawolves have clearly mastered this aspect, which has contributed to their championship wins.
Time.news: Smith recently earned his first cap for the USA Eagles.How significant is this achievement, and what does it mean for his career trajectory?
Dr. Sharma: Earning international recognition is a testament to Smith’s consistent excellence in MLR. It validates his decision to come to the United States and opens up new opportunities for him on the world stage. This achievement can elevate his profile and perhaps open doors for coaching or ambassadorial roles after his playing career.
Time.news: What is some advice based on Smith’s journey that you would share with our readers?
Dr. Sharma: The advice would be to prioritize the following:
Commitment: Even on those days he wanted to quit, he didn’t and pushed through.
Relationship Building: Smith’s connection with Riekert Hattingh made a huge difference in his career.
* Continuous Learning Smith shows that it is crucial to never be complacent and always work to improve.
Time.news: what do you see as the future for JP smith and the Seattle Seawolves?
Dr. Sharma: With his experience, leadership, and unwavering commitment, Smith has a crucial role in guiding the team through future challenges and striving for more championships.Also, his influence extends beyond the field, inspiring younger players and contributing to the growth of rugby in the United States.The Seawolves, with Smith as a key figure, are well-positioned to remain dominant in MLR for years to come.
Time.news: Dr. Sharma, thank you for sharing your insights. This has been incredibly informative.
Dr. Anya Sharma: My pleasure. Thank you for having me.
