BEST NEWS EVER: The Sydney Roosters Stars Jared Waerea-Hargreaves and Luke Keary Are Not Leaving, But Signed New Contracts as the Future of the Team is Secured
Sydney, Australia – January 2, 2025
In what can only be described as an incredibly uplifting moment for fans of the Sydney Roosters, the club has officially confirmed that two of their biggest stars, Jared Waerea-Hargreaves and Luke Keary, have committed their futures to the team. In a press conference that sent waves of joy through the rugby league community, both players confirmed that they would not be leaving the Roosters but have instead signed new contracts that will see them remain with the club for the foreseeable future.
This news comes as a huge relief to fans and club management alike, as Waerea-Hargreaves and Keary have been integral to the Roosters’ success in recent years. Their leadership, on-field performances, and overall contributions to the team have solidified their status as key figures in the NRL and pillars of the Roosters’ legacy.
A Storied Legacy: The Impact of Jared Waerea-Hargreaves and Luke Keary
Both Jared Waerea-Hargreaves and Luke Keary have been standout performers for the Sydney Roosters since their respective arrivals, and their staying with the club has ensured that the Roosters’ dynasty continues to thrive.
Jared Waerea-Hargreaves: Jared Waerea-Hargreaves is one of the most respected and feared players in the NRL. A front-row forward, Waerea-Hargreaves is known for his aggressive playing style, his physical dominance in the forward pack, and his leadership on the field. The 35-year-old New Zealand international has been with the Roosters since 2009, playing over 250 games for the club.
His leadership and physicality in the middle of the park have been crucial to the Roosters’ defensive and attacking structures. Waerea-Hargreaves has played a pivotal role in several of the Roosters’ premiership victories, and his toughness has made him a fan favorite. Despite being in the later stages of his career, his durability and resilience mean that his influence continues to be a major factor for the Roosters.
Luke Keary: Luke Keary, the club’s star playmaker, is another name that is synonymous with the Sydney Roosters’ recent successes. Since joining the club in 2013, Keary has established himself as one of the best halfbacks in the NRL. A two-time premiership winner with the Roosters, Keary has been instrumental in orchestrating the team’s attacking plays and guiding them to victory in numerous high-pressure games.
Keary’s vision, kicking game, and leadership qualities have been vital in navigating tight matches, especially in finals campaigns. His ability to control the tempo of a game, coupled with his experience, makes him one of the most invaluable players to the Roosters’ setup. His signing is a statement of intent from the club as they look to build a strong, experienced team for the future.
The Importance of Retaining Their Stars
The news of Waerea-Hargreaves and Keary’s contract renewals has significant implications for the Sydney Roosters’ future. The club had been facing potential uncertainty regarding the status of both players, particularly as they entered the final years of their current contracts. However, this news will put to rest any fears that they might leave the club or retire, securing their places as long-term members of the Roosters’ team.
Jared Waerea-Hargreaves’ Contract Renewal: Waerea-Hargreaves’ decision to sign a new deal with the Roosters is a major win for the club. Although he is in the twilight years of his career, Waerea-Hargreaves remains one of the most influential players in the NRL. The leadership and experience he brings to the side are irreplaceable, and his presence will continue to inspire younger players on the roster.
Coach Trent Robinson expressed his delight at Waerea-Hargreaves’ commitment to the club, saying, “Jared has been the heart and soul of the Roosters for so many years. His presence on and off the field is invaluable. To have him extend his stay with us is not just a win for the team, but for the entire club.”
Luke Keary’s Contract Renewal: Keary’s new contract is equally as important. The playmaker’s ability to control games and direct the team’s attack is a key component of the Roosters’ strategy, and his decision to remain with the club ensures continuity in the halves. As the veteran halfback, Keary provides stability and mentorship to younger players who are developing in similar positions.
Keary’s experience in big games, particularly in the finals, is something the Roosters will continue to lean on, as they look to mount another premiership challenge in the coming seasons. The addition of a long-term deal for Keary also signals the Roosters’ intent to keep their core group intact and continue to build around their proven stars.
What This Means for the Sydney Roosters’ Future
With Waerea-Hargreaves and Keary both signing on for more years, the Sydney Roosters are well-positioned for continued success in the NRL. The team’s recruitment and retention strategies have always focused on building a team that balances experience and youth, and these new contracts are a testament to that approach.
Experience and Leadership: Retaining Waerea-Hargreaves and Keary provides the Roosters with a blend of leadership and experience that is vital for success in the NRL. These two players have been through multiple finals campaigns and have won premierships, and their knowledge of high-pressure situations will be invaluable to the next generation of players coming through the club.
Building Around the Future: While the veteran presence of Waerea-Hargreaves and Keary is critical, the Roosters are also making strides to ensure their future is in good hands. With a number of younger players coming through the ranks, including some of the brightest talents in Australian rugby league, the Roosters are building a team for sustained success. The presence of leaders like Waerea-Hargreaves and Keary will ensure that the younger players are properly mentored, and their transition into the senior team will be seamless.
The club’s recruitment team is already looking at bolstering key positions with young, exciting talent, but the leadership core of Waerea-Hargreaves and Keary will ensure that the team continues to operate at the highest level in the NRL. The Roosters’ future looks bright, and with these two players staying for the long term, the club is undoubtedly in a strong position.
Fan Reactions and the Roosters’ Support
The announcement of the contract renewals has sparked jubilant celebrations among Roosters fans, who have long regarded Waerea-Hargreaves and Keary as two of the club’s most important players. Fans have expressed their excitement on social media, with many expressing their relief and joy at seeing both players commit to the team.
One fan tweeted, “This is the best news I’ve heard all year! Waerea-Hargreaves and Keary staying with the Roosters means we’re set for another few years of success. These guys are true champions!”
Another fan added, “I’ve followed these two players for years, and I can’t imagine the Roosters without them. To know that they’ll be around for a while longer makes me so happy. Let’s go Roosters!”
The fan base has always had a deep connection to the club’s senior players, and the news of these renewals has only strengthened that bond. The Roosters’ management, players, and supporters are all aligned in their belief that the club is well-equipped for the future, with Waerea-Hargreaves and Keary leading the charge.
What’s Next for the Roosters?
As the 2025 NRL season approaches, the Sydney Roosters are entering the campaign with renewed optimism, having secured the futures of two of their most important players. While the rest of the squad continues to prepare for the season, the focus will be on maintaining a strong, unified team culture.
With Waerea-Hargreaves and Keary remaining at the club, the Roosters can look forward to another exciting season, with the hope of lifting another premiership trophy. The new contracts serve as a statement of the club’s ambition and its commitment to remaining one of the top teams in the NRL.
For now, Roosters fans can celebrate the news that their two stars will be around for years to come, ready to take on whatever challenges the NRL season has in store.
