HENRY HUTCHISON RULED OUT FOR 2023, EYES 2024 RETURN
During the HSBC Sydney 7s tournament, interim Men’s Aussie Sevens captain Henry Hutchison sustained several injuries that have ruled him out for the rest of the 2023 World Series.
While playing at the Hamilton 7s tournament a week prior, Hutchison sprained his wrist and broke several ribs.
During his game against Argentina in Sydney, Hutchison injured his right knee and left ACL.
“Obviously with the 2023 World Series being an Olympic qualifying year, I’m super disappointed that I won’t be able to contribute any further on the field,” Henry said.
“However, I’ll be doing everything in my power to contribute to the team in a positive way.
“I’m hoping that my injury gives new boys the opportunity to develop their game and add new depth to our squad.
“There are a lot of talented footballers on this side – I’m anticipating that someone will step up and get the job done in my absence.
“One of the biggest challenges for me over the next 9-12 months will be keeping my mind active and staying focused.
“The training and the rehabilitation will be the easy part – the mental endurance required for recovery will be the focus area for me.
“I know I have a lot of support at Rugby Australia, as well as from my family and friends, and I’ll rely on all parties to keep me moving in the right direction.
“Injuries are a part of football – they come with the territory. This is the biggest setback I’ve faced in my career to date, but I have full faith in the rehabilitation team I’m working with. I know they will go above and beyond in getting me back to my pre-injury state.
“I aim to come back to rugby a better player and a better athlete, mentally refreshed and ready to roll into a big 2024.
“People may view my injury as an incident that has robbed me of a playing year – I don’t see it that way. It has given me time to get my body right – I’ve been going pretty hell for leather for six years now. I’ll find the silver linings wherever they may be.”
Hutchison will undergo surgery for his injuries today, before beginning his rehabilitation journey.
The 25-year-old – who was the first Sevens player ever to be awarded an AIS Education Scholarship – will finish his undergraduate Commerce degree in March and hopes to work in the field for the remainder of the year.
The Men’s Sevens team will next take to the field in Los Angeles on 25-26 February.
Matches will be broadcast live on beIN Sports, available via Foxtel, Kayo and beIN SPORTS CONNECT.
*For any media requests regarding Australian Sevens players and/or coaching staff, please contact Maggie Kerr via the details below.
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