DOB: 1 July 1830
Died: Unknown

Born in Ireland, Thomas "Red" Smith had played the British variety of football before emigrating to Melbourne. In 1858 he was the classics master at Scotch College when he lined up in the match between Scotch and Melbourne Grammar. Continuing his involvement in the game, Smith was one of the first committee members of the newly constituted Melbourne Football Club in 1859.

Along with Jerry Bryant, Henry Harrison, Tom Wills and James Thompson, Smith gathered at Bryant's Parade Hotel, on 17 May that year to formulate the first set of rules for the game.

During 1860 he played for both Melbourne and a combined Richmond/University team, in 1861 he also appeared in matches with St Kilda and University, turning out for University again in 1864.

After Wills left for Queensland, Smith captained Melbourne. He was often known as "red" on account of his hair colour. He was treasurer and secretary in 1861 and 1862. He resigned before the 1863 season when he was appointed inspector of schools for the Sandhurst (Bendigo) region and remained there until 1865.

In 1864 he returned to play some games for Melbourne and also appeared with University, he played for the club again in 1865.

By 1876 he was resident in South Australia.

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Pre-VFL Players

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