A sports-loving young man with an infectious smile – that’s how we will remember Mark Darra Smith, who has sadly passed away at the age of 18.
Mark and his friend Jarryd Haines touched all of our hearts when we met them back in 2017.
The pair made international headlines after Jarryd was overheard in the Noble Stand at the SCG calling a game play-by-play for his vision impaired friend Mark, after their radio stopped working during the match.
At the time Mark was just 13 years old and had been blind for four years because of cancers in his brain and spine, however he still loved going to the footy because of the atmosphere.
The boys’ friendship struck a chord with staff and players at the club.
Mark and Jarryd were invited to visit a Swans training session where they met with players and toured the club, bringing smiles to the faces of everyone they encountered. Mark’s passion for his beloved Swans was evident for all to see.
The best mates received international recognition when their story was nominated for best sporting moment in the Laureus World Sport Awards – previous winners of Laureus Awards include Usain Bolt, Serena Williams and Roger Federer. They finished runners up after every AFL club, celebrities, and even the prime minister, got behind them.
We are deeply saddened to learn of Mark’s passing and our thoughts are with his mum Heather, sister Penelope, his family and friends – especially Jarryd.
