Sydney Roosters up-and-coming playmaker, Sandon Smith, has expressed his relief and joy after escaping jail time for his involvement in a tragic traffic incident. The 22-year-old was sentenced to a two-year conditional release order on Friday after pleading guilty to negligent driving occasioning grievous bodily harm.
Smith’s accident occurred in September when he was leaving his Vaucluse driveway to head to training at Allianz Stadium. With his view obstructed by a tree and other vehicles, Smith inched out in his Audi A5, but another car collided with his vehicle, sending it into a third car. Unfortunately, the impact trapped a man’s foot, causing him to lose two toes as he was assisting his child from the vehicle.
Despite the serious nature of the incident, Smith has avoided jail time and is free to return to the NRL field for Round 1. The Roosters will face Brisbane at Allianz Stadium, with Smith likely to partner new recruit Chad Townsend in the halves. His presence in the match is especially significant as the club faces the departure of long-time five-eighth Luke Keary at the end of 2024 and the absence of Sam Walker due to an ACL injury.
In an emotional statement, Smith thanked the Roosters club and their fans for standing by him during these trying times. “I want to thank everyone at the Roosters, especially the fans, for their incredible support. It’s been a tough period, but I’m determined to move forward and be more careful in the future. I’ll do everything I can to help the team succeed this season,” said Smith.
As Smith prepares for the upcoming season, his focus is squarely on his role in the Roosters’ campaign and making amends for his past mistake. The young playmaker’s return to the field will be watched closely as the Roosters begin their quest for NRL glory in 2024.
