A founder of the UK’s first BSc Sports Therapy course and a tireless advocate for professional standards, Professor Smith leaves a lasting legacy
Date: 27 February 2026
London Metropolitan University was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Professor Graham Smith, a pioneering figure in Sports Therapy education and a valued supporter of our academic community.
Professor Smith, a former Fellow and Vice President of the Chartered Society for Physiotherapy, was instrumental in establishing the UK’s first BSc Sports Therapy course at London Met in 1996, helping to shape a programme that has supported generations of students into professional practice. His vision for developing the profession, focussing on managing injuries to enable patients not only to recover but also exceed their pre-injury capacity, has no doubt led to improved physical, mental and performance outcomes for an extraordinary number of patients around the world.
His legacy is passed on through generations of graduate Sports Therapists who have completed degrees at the now 35 institutions which are accredited by The Society of Sports Therapists, a professional body which he founded, and served as Chair and President of, for over three decades.
He was a mentor to many colleagues. Reflecting on their long-standing professional relationship, Jo Jenkins, Head of Student Experience and Academic Outcomes, in London Met’s School of Human Sciences, said:
“Graham was a tremendous support to me, encouraging me to progress my career in a way which I didn’t think was possible when I was in my early twenties. He was a firm supporter of the Sport and Dance Therapy BSc course that we were so passionate about and supported us at London Met through many course revalidations. Although I did not see him often, he always made time to speak with me and showed a genuine interest in my career, often sharing guidance and advice whenever our paths crossed. He was the biggest advocate for the profession and I carry his determination for upholding academic standards in all the work I continue to do.”
Known as both an inspiring educator and an exacting examiner, Professor Smith combined rigour with genuine care for the profession and the people within it. He was a formidable force, driving for regulation and recognition for graduate Sports Therapists. His legacy lives on through the programmes he helped to build and the colleagues and students he inspired.
He will be greatly missed. Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones at this difficult time.
The Society of Sports Therapists has published a tribute to Professor Smith, with an opportunity for those who wish to share their own reflections and messages of remembrance.
