Jared Waerea-Hargreave has admittedly loved his time in England and with Hull KR.
Hull KR’s Jared Waerea-Hargreaves waves goodbye to the fans after his last match before retiring during the Betfred Super League Grand Final at Old Trafford. Photo by Lee Parker – CameraSport via Getty Images.
Having admitted that his surprise move to Super League with Hull KR was one of the best decisions of his career, Jared Waerea-Hargreaves says he will return home and encourage others to make the same leap: “You’ve got to do it.”
The legendary forward was one of the biggest signings ever made in the northern hemisphere ahead of the 2025 season. He helped inspire the Robins to a historic campaign under head coach Willie Peters, claiming a clean sweep of honours with the Super League title, Challenge Cup, and League Leaders’ Shield in an unprecedented season.
It marks the greatest year in the East Hull club’s history, with Waerea-Hargreaves leaving a huge mark in what was his one and only season in England.
The 36-year-old saved his best performance for last, starring in Hull KR’s Grand Final triumph at Old Trafford as the club became just the fifth team ever to lift the Super League trophy.
Waerea-Hargreaves says he’ll return to Australia determined to convince others to follow his path.
“At the right time in your career, you’ve got to do it,” the New Zealand great said. “Go and experience it. It’s been so good. Obviously, winning helps. But make the most of it. I’ve done that all year, and I’ve told people, ‘You’ve got to go experience it.’
“It’s been one of the best decisions of my career. I’ve loved it.”
He has been linked with a mentorship role back at his beloved NRL club Sydney Roosters upon his return to Australia – where he holds the club’s all-time appearance record.
But for now, the no-nonsense prop declared: “I cannot wait to be a dad. We head back to Sydney just before Christmas, and we’ll enjoy some family time, enjoy Europe and do some travelling.
“We’ll also enjoy the next couple of weeks with the club, and everyone involved in celebrating this season and ending on a really good note.”