THE current championship campaign has yet to come to an end for Robert Emmetts but they’ve already received a huge boost for next season.
Former Westmeath midfielder Brian Smyth has joined the Emmetts, which will significantly strengthen Mick O’Dea’s side when they aim to retain their London SHC title in 2012.
Smyth, who has also committed to playing for London next year, captained Westmeath in 2011 when they defeated Carlow in the Leinster SHC, before being eliminated following defeats to Galway and Antrim.
Smyth has been living in London for the last 12 months and is set to stay in the English capital for at least another two years due to his commitments as a teacher at St Paul’s Academy.
He completed his transfer to Robert Emmetts last week from Raharney, his home club in Westmeath.
Despite living in London, Smyth continued to play for Westmeath this year but he was cut from the panel recently by manager Brian Hanley, who believes it’s no longer feasible for the player to commit to the Lake County by travelling home from London.
Robert Emmetts take on Carlow side Mount Leinster Rangers in this season’s All-Ireland Club IHC semi-final on January 22, but Smyth won’t be eligible as his transfer doesn’t begin until next season.
