Heart and spirit’: Jared Waerea-Hargreaves calls time on incredible NRL career, hints at move to the Super League
NRL star Jared Waerea-Hargreaves, a Premiership hero, has revealed that the 2024 season will be his final with the Tricolours. The “heart and spirit of the club” suggests he will probably complete his career overseas.
Since making his debut with Manly in 2009 and moving to the Roosters the following year, when he came off the bench in the grand final, the 35-year-old firebrand has been one of the most reliable and feared front-rowers in the game.
Due to suspension, the international prop forward will not play in the next game in Las Vegas. However, he will appropriately make his 300th NRL appearance against the Rabbitohs in round three.
Waerea-Hargreaves will become the most-capped Rooster of all time if he can stay in the park this season.
“The Sydney Roosters have been my home, my family, and my passion for many years,” he said.
“I love the club, and everybody who’s a part of it and anyone who knows me knows what the Roosters jersey means to me. This hasn’t been an easy decision, but after discussions with my family and Trent, I know it’s the right one.
“I’m proud to wear the Sydney Roosters jersey, and I’m incredibly motivated to keep working hard to achieve the ultimate goal with my brothers this year.“
In an open letter to club members, the friendly giant told Roosters supporters that he would give everything he has in 2024 while also hinting that a new opportunity awaits overseas next season.
“Please know that this decision was not made lightly,” he wrote
“The Sydney Roosters have been my home, my family, and my passion for many years, and it is not going to be easy to say goodbye to a club that is such a big part of who I am. But there’s a new chapter waiting for me next year.
“I want you all to know just one thing: my commitment to the Sydney Roosters for this final season is unwavering. I am fully dedicated to giving my all on the field, fighting for every try, every tackle, and every victory alongside my teammates.
“I am determined to make this season one to remember, leaving everything I have on the field for the Red, White, and Blue.”
While his passion has sometimes taken him over the edge, no one can deny just how important Waerea-Hargreaves was for their three premiership wins, with the prop arguably the best player on the field in the 2019 decider.
The legendary figure will likely play a different role off the bench this year with young stars Lindsay Collins and Spencer Leniu set to start for a team that will want to send their leader out with another title.
“Jared is our club’s soul and heart, and the Roosters consider him family. Trent Robinson, the coach of the Roosters, stated, “Coaching someone who plays the game the way he has for more than ten years has been an absolute pleasure.”
“There is no doubt that he will go down in history as one of the greatest forwards to wear the Roosters jersey. He has been a huge part of the club’s success over the last 15 seasons.”When it comes to the impact he hopes to make in his last season, Jared is certain and dedicated. We all have a very clear objective in mind, and we’re excited to spend the upcoming season with “Jaz.”
