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IAIN HENDERSON
Reflecting on Ireland’s narrow 2-1 series defeat in
South Africa in June, Henderson said, “All in all it
was a good tour. It was brilliant to get the win in
the first week. The second and third Tests didn’t
go to plan but I think we proved we were able
to compete at that level, even with a so-called
weakened team.
“It was great for Sean Reidy to get his first cap
and for Stu Olding to get back into an Ireland
jersey again. They both played well and really
fitted in with the rest of the squad.
“It was good to see the Ulster backline get some
recognition after the damage it’s been doing for
us. In one of the games all bar two of the starting
backline were Ulster players,” said Henderson,
referring to the second Test when Payne, Trimble,
Olding, Gilroy and Jackson were all involved.”
It has been an eventful summer for Henderson
off the pitch too, as he followed the tour of South
Africa with a North American trip…
“I was away for a bit with my girlfriend and got
engaged. As you can imagine the proposal was a
finely executed grand plan, you wouldn’t expect
anything else from me would you?” laughed
Henderson.
“She said ‘yes’ so that was the main outcome of
it. I didn’t realise all the wedding planning started
so soon, so that was a bit of a shock, but I’ll leave
most of that up to her.”
The 24-year-old had some time to celebrate
before joining preparations of a different kind -
Ulster’s pre-season schedule in advance of the
upcoming season.
It will be Les Kiss’ first full campaign in charge at
the club and that is something Henderson sees
as a massive positive.
“It’s an exciting time. It’s our first pre-season
with him at the helm so he’s been able to lay the
foundations for the full season. It was a good
opportunity for everyone to get clarity on what
he wants us to do, not only the senior squad but
right through to the Academy players.
“We have been training as a group and I think
that’s very important for some of the younger
players to pick up that experience. There will be
times during the season when internationals are
away and boys will be able to step in seamlessly.”
Congratulations to Iain and Suzanne!
Between the Ireland tour of South Africa and a significant personal milestone, Iain
Henderson had a busy summer and he is determined to carry on where he left off…
HENDERSON PRIMED FOR SUCCESS
ON AND OFF THE PITCH…