Air Specialist Class1 Olivia Smart: Life on and off the pitch
As an NHS Specialist in organ retrieval and transplant, AS1 Smart plays a vital role in saving lives, while her passion for football has seen her rise to become the captain of Leeds United Women’s Team. Scouted at just nine years old, AS1 Smart has dedicated herself to the sport, earning accolades such as the Manager’s Player of the Year award for the 2023/24 season. Balancing her professional and athletic commitments, she continues to inspire her teammates and fans at Garforth Town FC and Elland Road.
In 2022, she joined the Royal Air Force Reserves, serving with the 4626 Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron. Her medical expertise as an Operating Department Practitioner complements her role in the RAF, where she contributes to critical operations. In the 2024/25 season, Olivia also joined the RAF Ladies Football Team as a full back and winger, becoming the only RAF Reserve on the team. Her exceptional skills helped secure a victory at the Inter Services competition, further cementing her reputation as a dedicated and talented athlete.
Olivia’s story is one of resilience, passion, and hard work. Whether she’s saving lives in the operating theatre, leading her football team to success, or serving her country, she exemplifies what it means to be a modern role model. Her journey is a testament to the power of determination and the ability to excel in multiple fields, inspiring others to pursue their goals and make a meaningful impact.
4626 Squadron is based at RAF Brize Norton in Oxfordshire. Medical Reserves provide personnel to the RAF and Defence Medical Services operational medical capabilities, including aeromedical evacuation and pre-hospital, primary and secondary healthcare. Personnel are mostly recruited from the NHS and private healthcare sector from across England and Wales. The Squadron has deployed personnel to all major operations since its formation and also humanitarian ops such as assisting in the treatment of Ebola victims in Sierra Leone and hurricane victims in the Caribbean.