After breaking through for a crucial win over UQ last weekend, Easts’ centre Matt Smith has opened up on his new role at home and at the rugby club.

Smith scored a try in the Tigers’ 24-19 win over the Students on Saturday and said he’s thriving in his new role as one of the “dads” of the new look Tiger Cubs.

"I’m only 27 but Pillzy (Eli Pilz), Jack Frampton and I are the eldest in the squad. We don’t feel old but the next closest is only 22, so we’re at pretty different points in our lives,” Smith told Rugby News.

“Pillzy and I both had newborns last year and have our hands full with that, then we turn up to training on Tuesday and Thursday night with a bunch of 22-year olds whose biggest concern is their next gym session or what they are doing on the weekend.

“I’m really enjoying it though. Sharing some of the leadership duties with Pillzy, we’re trying to work really closely with the younger guys to show them what it takes to compete week in, week out and I think we’re getting closer to it.”