UQ were the most consistent team throughout 2021 and despite dropping a game late in the regular season to GPS, were able to bounce back and produce their best when it mattered.

The Red Heavies claimed their third premiership in five years, while coach Mick Heenan added a sixth Premier Rugby title to his resume in his 13 seasons at the club.

Overview with Mick Heenan:

“Everything worked out pretty well for us in the end,” Heenan told Rugby News. 

“We got through the regular season pretty well and played some good footy, then we hit that Covid lockdown and that introduced some new challenges and some uncertainty. 

“The semi final against Brothers generally could have gone either way but then in the grand final, I was really pleased that we were able to perform so well when it counted. 

“The first 60 or so minutes was really pleasing. In fairness to Jeeps, a few things didn’t go their way early and that helped us but I thought we were pretty good as well. 

“This year we had a really even team across the park. We had contributors in every position and I thought the team together was probably more than the sum of its parts. 

“They had a really strong connection and there was a great team spirit. They were never fazed when things went wrong during games, they just put their heads down and worked their way through it. 

“Obviously we had some talented players, but I think I was most pleased with how we developed through the year and kept getting better. I think that was testament to the culture we built. 

“The celebration after the grand final certainly fitted the occasion, that’s for sure.”

What needs to happen at the club between now and round one next year? 

“There will be a fair bit of turnover. It’s great that a few of the guys have got deals at Super Rugby clubs. We’ve also got a few others that have training contracts as well so that will create some opportunities for the guys that were knocking on the door of first grade this year from colts and reserve grade. 

“We’re already planning what next season will look like but it’s early days. 

“There is potential for us to play a game against Sydney Uni in Sydney early next year if Covid restrictions allow it. 

“Hopefully next year we can have a full season without looking over our shoulders the whole time.”

Is there a player you think might have a breakout season next year? 

“It’s hard to put a crystal ball on that and I don’t really want to single anyone out at this point. There are a few guys coming through. 

“I was really pleased for the Oates boys this year. They’re a great examples of guys that had been chipping away for a few years now and had standout seasons this year. 

“If there is an example for some of the guys who are trying to break through to follow, they’ve provided it. 

“Of the guys that have picked up opportunities, I think Iona Halaholo down at the Waratahs will do really well and benefit from time in a professional program. I’ll be interested to see what he can do. 

“Sam Wallis is heading down to the Rebels, he’ll do well. Lukas Ripley is also down in Melbourne and I think he’s got a massive future. 

“I’m just really pleased to see them get opportunities.”

What do you hope we are talking about at this time next season?

“Hopefully we’re talking about a full Premier Rugby season without any Covid interruptions or missing fixtures. 

“It’s too early to tell what the competition will look like I think but I imagine the usual suspects will remain strong next season.”