Paul played his college hockey with the University of Manitoba Battlesheep where he played the improbable combination of right wing and goalie. Somehow he also found the time to obtain two masters degrees (Entomology and an MBA). Paul was drafted in the 12th round by the Red Army in 1980. In 1984, he founded Paul Smith Global Designs, who, shortly afterwards, were commissioned to design the new Red Army logo. The new logo was a tremendous success, winning international acclaim and numerous awards.

Unfortunately, Paul's new celebrity status came with a high price. After marrying Yoko Ono in 1985, he became a frequent target of angry team members who felt he was more interested in being a celebrity than playing serious hockey. Facing increased media criticism for nearly breaking up the team, Paul decided it was best to leave the city and he retired from full-time active play in 1986. Before leaving, Paul and Yoko staged their famous bed-in protest to publicize his opposition to the use of the curved stick and back-checking in hockey. Despite international media coverage of their protest, the hockey community appears to have ignored them and the curved stick is here to stay. However, the Red Army considers back-checking an abhorrent behavior and continues to avoid it at all costs.

Paul remains active with the Red Army as the Scouting Coordinator for the team. At least once a year, Paul returns to the Red Army for an exhibition game guest appearance.

"The curved stick has ruined the game of hockey. Nowadays, kids don't learn the basics of stickhandling and backhands. All they think is slap shot, slap shot." Paul Smith, bed-in protest 1986.