Injuries are part and parcel of any sporting career, but Smith’s torn anterior cruciate ligament in her right knee came at the most inopportune time.

Instead of staking her claim for a women’s National Rugby League contract as the women’s game continued to grow, she was a frustrated spectator.

But the former Port City Breakers star never lost sight of her ultimate goal.

After signing a contract with Brothers Penrith in the second-tier women’s competition for 2019, it is now a matter of when she makes the next step.

She will, however, always remember where it all started.

“It all started here in Port Macquarie with league tag and transitioning into league,” she said.

“I did a stint with Newcastle and then injuries held me back in the last year so I’m excited to get back and play high-level footy again.”

The former Jillaroos halfback admitted the contract news did come as a surprise.

“It was a bit random, scary and a bit different to what I had in mind a couple of months ago,” she said.

“I played a year in Newcastle in my first year last year and that would have been more of the way I was heading, but then had a few friends down at the club (Brothers) that got into my ear.

“They told me what sort of structure and plan they had in mind for next year, all the good support around the club and I’ve got two good friends and a cousin that persuaded me.

“It’s a bit of a family reunion I think.”

Smith felt the second-tier women's competition would be a good stepping stone towards the National Rugby League.

“It’s a good platform for those to be scouted in if you want to earn a contract,” she said.

“It’s a good competition to get you through the ranks to step up to NRL if you’re lucky enough to pick up a contract.”

Contacts at both the Brisbane Broncos and Sydney Roosters give Smith the inside running for a contract at either of those clubs.

But no other club would be knocked back if they came knocking on the door.

“I know a few (people) at the Roosters, but I’d be honoured and lucky to go to any club really,” Smith said.

“The main goal I set my sights on is to have a good year injury-free playing in the women’s comp in Sydney.

“The goal is to make an NRL team and I guess it will come down to what offers are on the table.”

Smith will start pre-season with the Penrith club in mid-November with the competition set to kick off in April.

While you're with us, you can now receive updates straight to your inbox from the Port Macquarie News.

To make sure you're up to date with all the news, SIGN UP HERE.