JWH - The Ultimate Career

Author: Sydney Roosters
Timestamp: Tue 15 Apr 2025, 03:57 PM

Jared Waerea-Hargreaves, the Ultimate Rooster, has announced his retirement from rugby league at the conclusion of the 2025 Super League season. After 15 years with the Sydney Roosters, the 35-year-old Kiwi enforcer is set to leave the game as one of the game's most respected and enduring figures.

A Storied Career in the NRL

Waerea-Hargreaves joined the Roosters in 2010, following a brief stint at Manly. Over his 15-year tenure, he amassed a Club record 310 appearances and became a cornerstone of the Roosters' forward pack. His tenure includes three NRL premierships (2013, 2018, and 2019) and four minor premierships, underscoring his pivotal role in the Club's success.

Known for his aggressive playing style, his on-field presence and leadership were invaluable to the Roosters. Coach Trent Robinson lauded him as "the heart and spirit of our club," highlighting his unwavering commitment and influence within the team.

“As one of the most respected front-rowers of his generation, Jared completed his NRL career as a Sydney Roosters legend, and his impact on and off the field ensures a lasting legacy across the game of rugby league,” Coach Robinson said.

Transition to the Super League

Following his NRL career, Waerea-Hargreaves signed a one-year contract with Hull Kingston Rovers for the 2025 Super League season, marking the next chapter in his illustrious career. This transition allowed him to continue playing at a high level while exploring new challenges in the English competition.

Hull KR coach Willie Peters had nothing but praise for the respected enforcer.

“First and foremost, Jared’s a family man, a leader of men and a genuinely good person. He’s arguably one of the best front-rowers of all time.

“Jared’s standards are up there with the best I’ve seen. He helps drive our culture and intensity levels every day at Hull KR."

Legacy and Impact

Beyond his on-field achievements, Waerea-Hargreaves' leadership and community involvement have left a lasting impact. His dedication to the Roosters and the sport of rugby league has inspired countless fans and players alike.

Jared Waerea-Hargreaves' retirement marks the end of an era for the Sydney Roosters and the sport of Rugby League. His legacy as a fierce competitor and dedicated leader will be remembered by fans and peers for years to come.

JWH by the Numbers

Born: 20th January, 1989 (Rotorua, New Zealand)
37 NYC games (2008 – 2009) for Manly-Warringah, scoring 9 tries
6 NRL games (2009) for Manly-Warringah, scoring 1 try
310 NRL games (2010 – 2014) for the Sydney Roosters (most ever for the Club), scoring 15 tries
316 NRL games (2009 – 2024), scoring 16 tries
16 seasons as a first grader in the NRL
15 seasons as a first grader with the Sydney Roosters
1 NSW Cup (2024) game for the Sydney Roosters
9 games (2025) for Hull Kingston Rovers
7 Super League games (2025) for Hull Kingston Rovers
2 Challenge Cup games (2025) for Hull Kingston Rovers
NYC Debut: 22nd March, 2008 (Manly-Warringah v Newcastle Knights; Round 2, 2008), aged 19
NRL Debut: 10th May, 2009 (Manly-Warringah v Brisbane Broncos; Round 9, 2009) aged 20
Roosters NRL Debut: 17th April, 2010 (Sydney Roosters v Canberra; Round 6, 2010) aged 21
NSW Cup Debut: 9th March, 2024 (Sydney Roosters v Penrith; Round 1, 2024), aged 35
Hull KR Debut: 7th February, 2025 (Hull KR v York; Round 3 Challenge Cup, 2025) aged 36
Hull KR Super League Debut: 14th February, 2025 (Hull KR v Castleford; Round 1, 2025) aged 36
Manly-Warringah Player No. 516
Sydney Roosters Player No. 1105
Hull Kingston Rovers Player No. 1313

Rep Honours

33 tests (2009 – 2022) for New Zealand (29 as a Roosters player)
Three (2013, 2017, 2022) World Cups representing New Zealand
2 matches (2012, 2015) for the NRL All-Stars
New Zealand Kiwi Test Player No. 755
NRL All-Stars Player No. 41

Club Honours

3 Premiership Titles (2013, 2018, 2019)
3 World Club Challenge Titles (2014, 2019, 2020)
Four-time Grand Finalist (2010, 2013, 2018, 2019)
10 matches (2013 – 2021) as Roosters captain
66th Rooster to play 100 first grade games for the Club
20th Rooster to play 150 first grade games for the Club
10th Rooster to play 200 first grade games for the Club
5th Rooster to play 250 first grade games for the Club
4th Rooster to play 300 first grade games for the Club
4th Rooster to play 15 seasons of first grade at the Club
Roosters Record Holder for Most First Grade Games (record holder since 7th July, 2024)
2012 Jack Gibson Medallist (Roosters Player of the Year)
Two-time (2012, 2017) James Mathews Medallist (Roosters Clubman of the Year)

Game Honours

Twice (2013, 2015) named amongst the top five Rugby League Annual’s players of the year
Three-time (2013, 2015, 2018) prop forward in Rugby League Annual’s team of the year
20th player to play 300 first grade games for a single club (Sydney Roosters)
50th player to play 300 first grade games