WARRINGTON coach Tony Smith has defended his decision to sign veteran full-back Brett Hodgson, arguing that rugby league is no longer the preserve of the young man.

Former Giants skipper Hodgson, the 2009 Man of Steel who turns 33 on the opening day of the new season, joined the Wolves after Huddersfield were prepared to offer him only a 12-month deal when his original two-year contract ran out at the end of last season.

Richard Mathers, at 27 more than five years younger than his predecessor, moved to Castleford Tigers to accommodate the ageing Australian but former Giants coach Smith is confident his decision to give the sprightly Hodgson a two-year deal will be vindicated.

"Once upon a time 33 was a ripe old age to play rugby league but, with this generation, which has been fully professional since leaving school, I don’t think it’s as big an issue any more," he said.

"I think you are finding there are a lot more older players able to play because of their knowledge of rehabilitation and the way they recuperate their bodies after matches and at the end of seasons.

"The way they now work their bodies in preparation for the season enhances how long they can play for."

The facts support Smith’s argument, with more thirtysomethings set to start Super League XVI than ever before.

Hodgson is not even the oldest player at Warrington, with evergreen captain Adrian Morley turning 34 in May, and he has two years left on his current contract.