Nic Henderson

The CA Brumbies are in the process of finalising their playing squad for 2009 and one man who is signed on and looking forward to the season is CA Brumbies prop Nic Henderson. Brumby Jack caught up with ‘Hendo’ to see how he is going post-season.

Brumby Jack: With the inclusion of the likes of Stephen Moore, Sitaleki Timani, Ben Hand and Shawn Mackay in 2009, as a senior member of the squad how do rate the CA Brumbies forward pack for next season?
Nic Henderson: Our pack is definitely looking very strong and it’s an exciting time to be part of the Brumbies. With off season recruiting, we have more depth both in the forward pack and the whole squad. There is definitely more competition for starting spots and I will be working hard to do everything I can to secure one.

BJ: Some have stated they believe the CA Brumbies will have the best forward pack in Australia next season, on paper how does it compare to previous CA Brumbies packs including the Championship pack from 2004?
NH: We definitely have a fantastic team on paper but what’s most important is how we play on the rugby field. We will work hard to get good combinations so we can be the best forward pack on paper and on the field. Comparing to 2004, that was a magical year to be part of the team. Owen Finegan is our forwards coach for this year and was part of the pack in 2004, so I’m sure Melon will have those memories in the forefront of his mind and will be doing his best to replicate that.

BJ: What does your rugby schedule hold in store for you at the moment?
NH: Post season I am playing rugby with the great Southern Districts in Sydney’s club rugby competition. I am training during the week back at the Brumbies and then travelling to Sydney on Thursday to train and play club rugby. This is setting the platform to kick start the heavy contested pre season for the 2009 season.

BJ: How beneficial is it playing alongside fellow CA Brumbies front rower Guy Shepherdson at Southern Disctricts?
NH: Playing with Shep anywhere is great fun and most importantly beneficial for my game. We continue to develop a good combination and enjoy playing rugby together. We also play alongside former CA Brumbies hooker James McCormack which adds to our combination.

BJ: As someone who has played in the local competition and who continues to follow the John I Dent Cup, who is your tip for the premiership as the competition enters its final round this weekend?
NH: Playing in Sydney, I don't get to see much of the local rugby unfortunately, although this year I've been hearing good things about the quality of football that's being played. Queanbeyan appears a deserved favourite for the title.  They're strong across the park with a lot of pace out wide, but my dark horse is Royals, led by Brent Hamlin and the Abel brothers.  They had a few quiet games after the loss of Matt Henjak overseas, but after their big win on the weekend, I think they're hitting some good form heading into the finals.