From the ITFC academy to facing Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Neymar and Ronaldo – Tommy Smith has had quite a career, and at 36, the former Ipswich Town defender is not done yet, as he waits to hear whether he will play in the 2026 World Cup Finals.
Tommy Smith (right) reflects on playing against Ronaldo (Photo: Suffolk New College)
Why it matters: Smith, who made more than 200 appearances for Ipswich Town and has over 50 international caps for New Zealand, visited Suffolk New College – where he once studied as part of the ITFC academy – to share the lessons of a career that has taken him around the world.
The details: The 36-year-old, who also had spells at Brentford and Colchester United as well as clubs in America, Australia and New Zealand, sat down with college principal and CEO Alan Pease for a two-hour Q&A session in front of around 100 staff and students.
Alan Pease, principal and CEO of Suffolk New College with former ITFC player, Tommy Smith. (Photo: Suffolk New College)
Smith discussed his injury issues, the managers who shaped him – including Roy Keane and Peter Taylor – and reflected on some of his toughest opponents – Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Neymar and Ronaldo – and favourite teammates – Aaron Cresswell and Chris Wood, who had a brief spell at Ipswich and currently plays for Nottingham Forest.
What they’re saying: Smith said it was “a really enjoyable experience” to return to Suffolk New College. “It’s a magnificent building and it’s great to come back and see the college thriving and going from strength to strength,” he said.
For students, the visit left a lasting impression. Jackson Pickering, 18, from Ipswich, who is studying personal training, said: “It was interesting hearing about how much they dedicate their lives to football and how you deal with setbacks.”
Jason Ogbonna, 18, from Colchester, who is on a Level 3 Sports Coaching programme, added: “Tommy helped promote the idea that you need to give it your all, try to improve every day, and make the most of opportunities. He has inspired me to do more.”
What’s next: Smith is hoping to add to his tally of more than 50 New Zealand appearances by featuring at the 2026 World Cup Finals, and expects to know next month whether he has made the squad.
“Fingers crossed. I’m waiting for the call and hopefully it will be positive news,” he said. “It would be an amazing way to finish my career.”
Smith previously represented New Zealand at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.
The bottom line: A former ITFC player returned to his educational roots to inspire the next generation, and with a potential World Cup appearance still to come, Tommy Smith’s story may not be over just yet.
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