Catalans Dragons have signed former Bradford hooker Ian Henderson on a three-year contract from New Zealand Warriors.
Former Bradford hooker joins on three-year deal
Catalans Dragons have signed former Bradford hooker Ian Henderson on a three-year contract.
Henderson, whose older brothers Kevin (Wakefield) and Andrew (Sheffield Eagles) play in England, joins the French engage Super League team from NRL outfit New Zealand Warriors.
He is a direct replacement for Australian Casey McGuire, who is returning home after a four-year spell with the Dragons.
Henderson, who made 70 appearances for Bradford from 2005 to 2007 and was a member of their last Grand Final-winning team, is the third signing made by new Catalans coach Trent Robinson following the recruitment of Vincent Duport and Scott Dureau.
Tough
"Ian is a very tough player who must become the leader of the Catalans pack next year," said Robinson, who is taking over from Kevin Walters.
"His two years' experience in the NRL will definitely be a big advantage for himself and the whole squad as well.
"He is still young, has great capacities and will be the future of our club."
Henderson has made 73 appearances with the Warriors since returning to the NRL three years ago and previously played for Sydney Roosters and Parramatta.
Born in Torquay, his father was from Glasgow and he played for Scotland in the 2008 World Cup alongside his brothers.
He is due to arrive in Perpignan in November for the start of pre-season training.
Release
Henderson was under contract for another year at the Warriors but the Auckland club agreed to release him.
"Ian was keen to secure his long-term future but we weren't able to extend his contract beyond 2011 at this stage," said Warriors chief executive Wayne Scurrah.
"On the basis of the long-term security the contract provides, we have agreed to support Ian's request for a release."
Henderson said: "It's disappointing to be leaving because I love this place but I wanted a long-term contract and Les Catalans are able to offer me that security."
