In 2004 and 2005, Smith played with Melbourne's VFL-affiliate, Sandringham, suffered a knee injury in 2005 which ended his season prematurely.
Smith played in the VFL throughout 2006 but an injury to Melbourne's top ruckman Mark Jamar, Smith was suddenly recalled for the semi-final match against Fremantle Football Club.[1] It was Smith's first AFL game in three years, but he could only manage three hitouts, as Melbourne were knocked out of the finals.
Smith was delisted by the Demons at the end of the 2006 season.[2]