Smith signs first professional contract with GTSC
The Greenville Triumph Soccer Club has announced the signing of former North Carolina State defender, Jamie Smith pending league and federation approval. The defender had been on trial with Greenville since mid-February, appearing extensively in the club’s opening preseason match against the Clemson Tigers.
This is Smith’s first professional campaign, having just finished his senior season at NC State in December of 2021. During his time in Raleigh, he started 42 of 46 matches played, scored five goals with three assists and recorded a total of 3,850 minutes. Smith also has experience with former National Premier Soccer League and current USL League 2 team, Asheville City SC, where he was named 2019 NPSL Young Player of the Year.
Before joining the Wolfpack, Smith competed two seasons at Limestone College in Gaffney, SC. From 2017-2018, the defender started 40 out of 50 matches and played 3,289 total minutes, scoring eight goals and two assists. While at Limestone, he was awarded multiple accolades including 2018 Conference Carolinas All-Tournament Team, Second-Team All-Conference Carolinas, and Player of the Week. In 2017, Smith was named Second-Team United Soccer Coaches All-Southeast Region, Second-Team D2CCA All-Southeast Region and First-Team All-Conference of the Carolinas.
The Birmingham, England native is no stranger to professional soccer. Smith’s father, Dean Smith, is a former professional player and the current manager of Norwich in the English Premier League.
“We are excited to add Jamie Smith to our roster for 2022 and beyond. Jamie is a quality defensive player with great vision and distribution qualities to enhance our team,” said Head Coach, John Harkes. “We have been able to see him perform at NC State, and we were pleased to have him in on trial. Looking forward to seeing him build and grow within our club environment. ”
Smith is the first trialist to be added to the 2022 roster. He will be joining a veteran crew of
13 returning Triumph players as well as newcomers Jacob Labovitz, Jimmy Filerman, Peter Pearson, Noah Franke, Venton Evans, Jake Keegan, and Lucas Coutinho this season. The Triumph will kick off its Home Opener against Fuego FC on April 2nd at Legacy Early College in West Greenville. Single match and season tickets are available to purchase now for the 2022 regular season.
