The Port Macquarie teenager has been selected in the NSW under-15 state hockey team for the April 17-23 national championships in Bathurst.

His selection takes the number of representative teams in a row to six over the last three years across both indoor and outdoor formats.

Smith said he learned a number of different things about his game 12 last year which contributed to becoming what he feels is a better player.

"In 15s last year i didn't really know how big everyone were going to be, but now going to this I kind of expect what everyone's going to be like skill-wise," he said.

"I learned you have to get your core basics right to be able to get into the first team."

Extra training with club side Tacking Point Thunder also contributed to taking the next step.

"My game has improved quite a fair bit because now being in the men's competition has brought me to another level," he said.

The teenage attacker was looking forward to playing his role as New South Wales look to improve on their result from 2019.

"Last year the first team got silver so hopefully we can do better this year and get gold," he said.

Smith said having nationals before the start of the year would benefit him for the season ahead.

"It's good having them now because you get a feel for what it's going to be like ahead of the year."

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.

If you value local journalism, continue to support us and consider taking out a subscription. CLICK HERE for a 30-day free trial.