The Lakes United Seagulls have landed a major coup, securing the services of former Western Suburbs Rosellas five-eighth Will Smith on a deal that sees him at Cahill Oval until the end of 2027.
Smith, who amassed 88 NRL matches spanning four clubs in the Telstra Premiership — including Penrith, Parramatta, Gold Coast and Wests Tigers — now joins the Newcastle Rugby League (NEWRL) outfit to strengthen its spine ahead of next season.
“We had an initial meeting with Will and we spoke about where he fitted into the picture here and what our plans were,” Lakes United coach Al Lantry said.
“And, we both agreed that the best role for him was as an on-ball seven partnered with Pottsy (Ryan Potts) at six.
“Will was very excited to play alongside Ryan in the halves.
“It allows Pottsy to do what he does best, which is managing his edge and being a run threat.
“So, we as a coaching staff are excited to see how this combination evolves.”
Smith, who was moved to centre at stages to accommodate boom youngster Aiden Storrie, remained a key piece of the Rosellas line-up.
He registered 11 try assists — the second best in the Wests’ squad, which saw them go all the way to the preliminary final before being edged out by Cessnock for a berth in the decider under mentor Rick Stone.
The Seagulls, who are now steadily building a spine that features names like Matt Cooper, Potts, Smith and Nash Birch – and will also see the return of boom junior Taj Blackman, look as poised as ever for an improved finish in 2026.
Lakes returned to training last week, with Smith expected to have already rolled out for his first session in blue and gold post-announcement.
In other free agency news, former NRL forward Liam Knight has been shopping himself around to clubs in the NEWRL looking to secure a deal for 2026.
However, one official ruled his side out of the bidding war.
“I wasn’t sure if that was the figure he wanted or a telephone number,” he said.
Knight remains unsigned at time of printing.
Former Central Newcastle forward Ethan Campbell is set to link up with the Northern Hawks in 2026.
The youngster, who was an integral part of the Butcher Boys’ 2024 team, is among a host of players moving on from the club following the departure of former coach Adam Bettridge.
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