Words by Tom Connor.
One of the rising stars of Sydney’s premier Shute Shield rugby competition in recent seasons, Henry Clunies-Ross is now aiming to shine on the big stage.
Born and raised in Sydney, Clunies-Ross attended Trinity Grammar School where he captained the 1st XV. Upon completing his schooling, Henry joined Shute Shield heavyweights Sydney University, where he would play a starring role in the 1st Colts Premiership success of 2013.
After training with the Waratahs and the Gen Blue U20’s side for the 2014 preseason, Clunies-Ross returned to Sydney University ready to make the step up to grade rugby.
It wasn’t long before the young flyer got his first taste of first grade rugby, putting the competition on notice with a number of impressive early season tries. Quickly becoming a regular on the weekly highlight reels, he developed a reputation as one of the best finishers in the competition.
Gifted with blistering pace and a strength that didn’t match his frame, Clunies-Ross was one of three Sydney University players to be selected in the Shute Shield team of the Year for 2014, alongside Tom Carter and James Dargaville. The icing on the cake came when he was also named the Shute Shield Rookie of the Year.
Turning out for the Sydney Stars in the inaugural NRC competition, last year gave Henry the opportunity to test himself at the next level. Nailing down a spot on the wing, he is set to continue his crucial role in the Stars’ campaign once again in 2015.
After picking up the wooden spoon last year, the Stars began this season with a big win over the North Harbour Rays 45-29. The win has them sitting pretty atop the NRC ladder ahead of their televised clash against Queensland Country this Thursday night.
With a number of Waratahs moving on after the 2015 season, don’t be surprised if you see Henry Clunies-Ross in the sky blue jersey sooner rather than later.
