Two weeks ago, James Hendren arrived in Narrabri with a simple brief - get the job done.
Four tries later, the Waratahs fullback had put his name up in lights as the competition’s Player of the Week in a season-defining victory for NSW against the Queensland Reds.
“I was a little bit nervous before the Reds game – it’s a big rivalry,” Hendren said.
“But once the game kicked off, I tried to stay present, enjoy every moment and not overthink things like scoring. That mindset really helped me.”
Heading into Sunday’s Super Rugby AUS Grand Final, the 22-year-old sits second in the competition for total running metres and tackle breaks, averaging almost 130 metres per game and notching up 11 tackle breaks.
“I work closely with the strength and conditioning staff on speed and conditioning so I can run as much as I want on game day,” Hendren said.
“I’m very much a run-first player and I just enjoy having the ball in my hands.
“I’ve always been a runner. It’s something that came pretty naturally to me.”
Hendren has been in the Waratahs system for several years but the turning point in his career came after a 2023 season plagued by injuries, which forced him to redesign his off-field routines of recovery and maintenance.
“I’ve learned from the people around me, especially the physios,” he said.
“I’ve built a routine that allows me to perform every week without worrying about breaking down.
“A few of us boys also started a Pilates group every Thursday, which has been great towards injury prevention and exploring all aspects of being an athlete.”
After starring for Randwick during the 2025 Shute Shield season, Hendren said the transition to Super Rugby AUS has been a smooth one.
“It’s definitely a bit more physical and a bit quicker but playing alongside a young group of boys makes it feel more normal,” he said.
“The tournament is a great opportunity for younger players to get a taste of the next level. I’ve really enjoyed every second of it.”
Looking ahead to Sunday, Hendren’s brief for the game, just as it was in Narrabri, is clear and simple.
“My goal for the Grand Final is to do my job, keep working with the players around me and make sure we leave nothing out there.”
NSW Waratahs vs Western Force
Where: Kingsway Regional Sporting Complex
When: Sunday, 5 October 2025
Kick-off: 4.00 pm (AEDT)
The game will be broadcast LIVE and on demand on Stan Sport and the rugby.com.au YouTube channel.
