TONY Smith has returned to Warrington Wolves after a visit to NFL outfit the San Francisco 49ers.

Wolves’ head of coaching and rugby admits it was chance to catch some ‘R and R’ before the Super League season, but found his trip to the States an insightful experience.

“They call it ‘lock down’ and they don’t usually let anyone in during their actual season,” he explained.

“It was mainly to go and watch and I have a mate who works for them.

“It was a bit more pleasure than anything else, but it’s always an experience to go and have a look at particularly how the American sports are marketed.

“It’s unbelievable. Also, how much they’re analysed by the media as well, it’s incredible.

“It’s 24/7 in terms of analysing their sports so it’s an eye-opener every time you go over there.”