By MARK CASHMAN

Six shoulder surgeries, that included two major reconstructions by the age of 21, would signal “game over” for any normal rugby player.

But Eastern Suburbs open side breakaway Charlie Smith is no ordinary human being, no normal rugby player and four games into his Shute Shield career he’s making every second count.

Smith has impressed many with his efforts in a Beasties side that is yet to click into gear but showing lots of potential and are sitting eighth on the competition table with a single win so far.

But each week on the field is a cause for celebration when you track the travails of this 22-year-old.