Injury forces 24-year-old Warriors backrower Ben Henry to retire from NRL

MAJOR knee surgery in three of the last four seasons has forced Warriors backrower Ben Henry to retire at the age of 24.

MAJOR knee surgery in three of the last four seasons has forced Warriors backrower Ben Henry to retire at the age of 24.

Henry’s 2016 season was ended by a patella injury to his left knee in the opening match of the year against Wests Tigers.

It followed ACL injuries to the same knee in 2013 and 2015.

“It’s been a tough call to make because my goals were always to be a professional rugby league player,” Henry said in a statementafter telling his teammates about his decision.

“It’s a huge disappointment but after all the damage to my knee there really wasn’t any option. While my heart was set on coming back yet again I’ve had to accept my body won’t allow me to compete at the level I need to.

“While there have been setbacks I’m still so grateful for the opportunities rugby league has given me. To be able to play for the club in the NYC and the NRL as well as making my Test debut for my country has been a privilege.

“I’ve played alongside so many great players and I’ll always cherish those times. I want to thank all the teammates and coaches I’ve had for being there to support me through the good and bad times.

“This isn’t the way I planned it but now I have made this decision I’m ready for the next phase of life after football.”

A product of the Warriors’ NYC, Henry captained the 20s for two seasons before making his NRL debut.

Henry made his first grade debut in 2012 and played a Test for New Zealand in 2014.

He finished his career with 17 tries plus three goals in his 52 games.

Originally published as Injury forces 24-year-old Warriors backrower Ben Henry to retire from NRL