Rory Smith

Rory Smith, born on February 1, 1987, in Etobicoke, Ontario, established himself as a prominent figure in professional lacrosse. His career, spanning from 2008 to 2016, saw him play for multiple teams across the National Lacrosse League (NLL). Smith began his amateur career with the Jr. B Mimico Mountaineers, where he earned the league MVP title in 2006. He further honed his skills with the Jr. A Brampton Excelsiors from 2007-2008. Transitioning to Sr. A lacrosse in 2009, he joined the New Westminster Salmonbellies of the Western Lacrosse Association, contributing to two Mann Cup appearances in 2009 and 2010. His commitment to the sport continued as he moved to the MSL Chiefs in 2012, celebrating back-to-back Mann Cup victories in 2013 and 2014.

Smith was drafted 17th overall in the second round of the 2007 NLL Entry Draft by the New York Titans. He played for the Titans in New York for two seasons (2008-2009) and for one season in Orlando (2010), setting an NLL single-season record of 104 penalty minutes in 2010. Following the dissolution of the franchise, Smith was selected fourth overall by the Minnesota Swarm in the 2010 Dispersal Draft, playing with them for one year (2011). He was then traded to the Colorado Mammoth, where he played for two seasons (2012-2013). His career path also included a season with the Buffalo Bandits in 2014, and he concluded his professional playing career with the Vancouver Stealth (later the Vancouver Warriors) from 2015 to 2016, consistently making the playoffs every year of his career and participating in the 2009 NLL Champion’s Cup. Smith was also a Gold medalist with Team Canada at the 2011 World Indoor Lacrosse Championships.

Beyond his on-field achievements, Smith is recognized for his leadership qualities and his ability to elevate the performance of his teammates. Known as ‘The Mimico Mauler’ for his physical style of play, he accumulated over 1,000 career penalty minutes across his amateur and professional career. His tenure with various teams highlights his adaptability and consistent valuable contributions to team defense. After his playing career, Smith has continued to be involved in lacrosse, serving as a Zone 7 lacrosse Director and coach. He remains a respected figure in the lacrosse community, known for his dedication and workmanlike attitude.