Wigan half-back Harry Smith hails mentors Lee Briers and Tommy Leuluai

Wigan half-back Harry Smith says he has enjoyed learning from assistant coach Lee Briers and Tommy Leuluai in pre-season.

Smith, a three-time Academy Grand Final winner, made his first team debut for Wigan in 2019 and helped the Warriors clinch the League Leaders’ Shield in 2020.

Although he has made 46 first team appearances for Wigan, he is still only 22. The England Knights international is taking full advantage of working under veteran half-backs Briers and Leuluai.

“Lee was a great half-back in his time and is now a great coach,” Smith told Love Rugby League.

“He brings a lot more detail to our attack. With me specifically, he’s been working with me on stuff he wants me to improve on but also help the team. It has been really positive working under Lee.

“Tommy has helped me since I have come through and he continues to help me. He gives me tips on how we want to play and certain aspects of the game so he has been a massive help and one that I’m taking full advantage of.”

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Harry Smith confident Wigan can be successful this season

Smith says his individual goal for 2022 is to be more consistent, and is confident the Warriors can be successful in the upcoming campaign.

He added: “I think it can be a successful year if we keep working on the foundations that we’ve built in regards to our culture and togetherness.

“We will focus on playing well week by week and not look too far ahead, but I believe we can go well if we stick to our foundations.

“I think we are taking the right steps forward to having a successful season with the pre-season that we’ve had.

“Last season was a good one for myself playing-wise and getting the experience and game time under my belt. It taught me how to prepare mentally and physically for each game. I thought it was successful but I want to be more consistent. I want to be more consistent week in, week out this year.”

Wigan face a trip to Hull KR in their opening game of the Super League season on February 11.

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