21 August 2024
Jared Waerea-Hargreaves, is a name that commands respect on the rugby league field.
Jared has built an illustrious career with the Sydney Roosters, marked by his fierce competitiveness and unwavering dedication. A three-time premiership winner, Jared recently celebrated a milestone that few athletes in the NRL achieve—playing his 300th game. This significant achievement is a testament not only to his skill and resilience but also to the support he has received from his family throughout his journey.
Jared’s rugby league story began in New Zealand, where he first picked up a rugby ball at the age of five. From a young age, Jared was passionate about sports, eagerly participating in any activity that allowed him to compete. His early enthusiasm for rugby was inspired by his admiration for the All Blacks, New Zealand’s legendary national rugby team. This passion laid the foundation for a successful career in the NRL, where Jared has become one of the sport’s most respected figures.
The recent milestone of reaching 300 games was made even more special by the presence of Jared’s family, who have been by his side through every triumph and challenge. “Reaching my 300th game was an amazing achievement, and to share it with my family was so special to me,” Jared said, reflecting on the occasion. “They are the ones who have been there with me the whole way, through the good times and the hard times, so it only felt right that they were with me to mark that occasion.”
Off the field, Jared embraces his role as a father to three children—Zahli (9), Harper (6), and Hudson (2). Despite the challenges that come with parenting, Jared finds immense joy in being a dad. “Being a father to three is a challenge, but I absolutely love it,” he says. Each of his children brings a unique personality to the family, making life busy but always fun. Jared cherishes the time he spends with them, whether it’s engaging in playful pranks, building cubby houses, or enjoying a relaxed afternoon at the park.
Jared’s children often join him at training sessions and games, making them an integral part of his rugby life. His daughters, Zahli and Harper, are old enough to help out during training, while his young son Hudson eagerly looks forward to seeing Rocky the Rooster, the team’s beloved mascot, on game days. “My kids love coming to both training and games,” Jared shared. “My girls are old enough to help out with some jobs at training, like collecting balls or getting the water ready.”
The lessons Jared has learned from rugby extend into his parenting philosophy. He emphasises the importance of enjoying every moment because, as he says, “it goes by quickly.” Jared, who remains a big kid at heart, ensures that the atmosphere at home is light and playful. He treasures afternoons spent kicking a football around with his children or watching his daughters ride roller skates—simple activities that are often the highlight of his day.
As his daughters become more involved in netball, Jared enjoys being a supportive sideline dad. He believes that participating in team sports is crucial for his children’s development and loves watching them grow in this environment.
Jared is quick to acknowledge the vital role his partner Chelsea plays in their family dynamic. “She is an amazing mother; she is everything to the kids and myself. She has so much patience, always taking care of us,” he says, expressing deep appreciation for her support. Chelsea, in turn, admires Jared’s qualities as a father, particularly his ability to be present and engaged with their children. “He’s definitely the fun parent,” she notes, adding that Jared’s love for cleaning is a bonus she particularly enjoys.
Looking to the future, Jared is excited about the prospect of spending more time with his family once his rugby career winds down. He dreams of taking his family on big adventures, with Greece and Lapland at the top of their travel list. “I’m looking forward to having more time with the kids and being more flexible with my schedule,” Jared says.
