The Southern United midfielder was named the league’s MVP in fitting recognition for her outstanding season.
Smith, who missed the 2023 season, scored five goals from her seven games for Southern United and finished fourth on the ladder for most goals in a five-way tie.
Most of those goals were screamers, and she scored two goals for Southern United in their season-ending 2-0 victory over finalists Waterside Karori.
Smith was always busy in the middle, helping Southern United transition through the field, and was never afraid to put her body on the line.
Her experience proved invaluable and Smith was the glue for Southern United. The team finished eighth with a record of three wins, two draws and four losses.
Auckland United beat Waterside Karori 3-1 to defend their national league title in North Harbour on Sunday.
Charlotte Roche scored two goals in the final, bringing her tally for the season to nine to win the golden boot.
Pia Vlok was named player of the final after the 16-year-old scored Auckland’s opener after just two minutes.
