Exeter Chiefs have confirmed that centre Tom Hendrickson will leave the club ‘with immediate effect’, ahead of his move to Japan. Hendrickson’s new club is as yet unconfirmed, yet the Chiefs announced his move to the Far East in a statement today.
The powerhouse centre made 89 appearances for the Chiefs over a decade long run at the club. The hard-hitting midfielder racked up eight tries, and became a real fan favourite of the Sandy Park faithful in recent seasons.
“After 10 years at the club, it’s bittersweet to be saying goodbye. I’ve loved my time in a Chiefs shirt having grown up in Cornwall, looking up to all the great players that have pulled on the Exeter colours.” Hendrickson said in an Exeter Chiefs statement.
“Being a part of the Chiefs journey and some phenomenal moments has been incredibly special to me – I made memories that will last a lifetime. Throughout everything, I was supported by trusted coaches and back-room staff.”
“To the boys that I’ve played alongside, thank you for everything. The squads I have been a part of have created a very special dynamic in the changing room which made my time at the club all the more enjoyable.”
“To the Chiefs family, our fantastic supporters, thank you for every game you have attended – home and away. Your support of the team is invaluable, and I’ll truly miss playing in front of a Sandy Park crowd.”
“I’m really excited for a new challenge. Heading to Japan will be something completely new for me, but it’s an experience I’m ready to dive headfirst into.”
Hendrickson made his Chiefs debut in November 2013, during an LV Cup win over Harlequins. He then progressed on for his Premiership debut came a couple of seasons later, which came in a home win over Wasps.
Hendrickson became an integral part of some of Chiefs’ pinnacle moments, including the maiden Premiership title in 2016/17 and the 2019/20 Premiership and Champions Cup double triumph. The 29-year-old was also apart of the side that defeated London Irish to win the 2022/23 Premiership Rugby Cup, in last season’s final. Head Coach Ali Hepher wished Hendrickson the best in his new opportunity;
“Tom was keen to experience rugby outside of Devon and Cornwall, where he’s played all his rugby. He was going to look for that next year, but this opportunity came up mid-season and we didn’t want to stand in the way of him experiencing something likely life changing.”
“Tom goes with all of our best wishes. He’s been in fantastic form this year and I’m sure he’ll be a success playing over there. We’re really pleased to see him kick-on and go to a great opportunity to experience some different rugby with a different culture.”
“Good luck to Tom. He’s been a great guy around the club, a great member of the squad and he’s put in some great performances for us over the years – so we’re really pleased for him.”
Hendrickson began his rugby career in Cornwall, with Penzance-Newlyn minis. His journey took him through Truro College and the Exeter Chiefs Academ, before he earned his place in the first team squad.