Resurgent star Isaac Henry's perseverance rewarded with new Reds deal

The Reds have wasted no time in securing the services of resurgent midfield star Issac Henry for another season, announcing a new one-year deal on Tuesday.

The Queensland club say they were searching for the 27-year-old’s signature before his recent string of games, but his form in two starts against major local rivals the Waratahs and Brumbies is bound to bring more excitement to the contract announcement.

Henry’s presence was felt in both recent wins, with an opportunity to play coming following an ankle injury to Wallaby Hunter Paisami, who was one of nine sidelined Reds in round 5.

Capping the most recent effort with a try, Henry says he’s pleased to be back in the Super Rugby fold, having claimed just 20 Reds caps since his 2021 debut.

“The last few years have been up and down with my body, so it has been pretty awesome to be back and playing in two good wins. I’ve been proud of myself and the boys,” Henry said.

“Not too long ago, I was questioning whether I’d keep playing, so to leave it all out there on the field again for 80 minutes is just a good feeling.

“I’m super happy to stay on for another year at the Reds. Queensland is home.”

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The Reds have been Super Rugby’s most proactive club in finding match opportunities beyond the Super Rugby Pacific season, and Henry has faced Tonga and the Saitama Wild Knights as he pushed for more minutes in the regular season. He also appeared off the bench against the British and Irish Lions last July, while the inaugural Super Rugby AUS season provided yet more game time.

“You can improve in the gym and at training, but the more you can play, the more you pick up the intricacies of the game and find your rhythm. It’s really been a plus for me that the Reds work hard to schedule extra games to advance their players,” Henry said.

Reds Head Coach Les Kiss highlighted Henry’s talent and character on and off the field when expressing his excitement for the new deal.

“His training ethos and footy intelligence are appreciated by all, and he has a sense of calm on the field,” Kiss said.

“He plays well on both sides of the ball. He’s part of a competitive midfield at the Reds. Whether it is at No.12 or No.13, he shows the qualities he brings.”