From Olympic stadiums to stadium sprints, Henry Hutchison is no stranger to the world stage. A key player in the Australian Rugby Sevens squad, Henry has represented Australia at three Olympic Games—most recently making a standout comeback in Paris 2024 after a major ACL injury just one year prior. His career is a masterclass in grit, speed, and never backing down from a challenge.
In this Q&A, Henry opens up about the mental resilience behind elite recovery, his proudest moments wearing the green and gold, and the unexpected lessons he’s learned along the way. Plus, a few off-field gems—like his go-to travel stories, a cheeky party trick, and the one athlete he’d love to share a coffee with.
You’ve represented Australia at three Olympic Games—a remarkable achievement.
How does it feel to have been part of the team’s best-ever Olympic finish in Paris
2024?
Better than the first two, that’s for sure! Paris was something special. It was an incredible
Games, and Sevens really became one of the headline events. But finishing 4th… it stings.
Coming that close to a medal was, and still is, heartbreaking.
After suffering a torn ACL, broken ribs, and a broken wrist in early 2023, your
incredible comeback was nothing short of inspiring. What was the most challenging aspect of your recovery, and how did you stay mentally strong during that period?
I was due for a break—my body had taken a hammering! Injuries are just part of the deal in professional sport, but it’s the isolation that really gets to you. Being away from the team can mess with your head. That’s when the doubts creep in. Staying mentally strong meant staying connected and keeping purpose in my routine.
Rugby Sevens takes you to incredible places around the globe. Which destination has been your favourite to play in, and are there any memorable off-field experiences you can share?
Hong Kong, no question. It’s the mecca of Sevens—we absolutely love playing there and
have had great success. Long may that continue!
Off the field? Cape Town. The city lives and breathes rugby. The welcome from the locals is something else—you really feel the love.
Balancing professional sport with academics is no small feat. As someone who
completed a Bachelor of Commerce while competing internationally, how did you
manage your time and stay focused on both goals?
It was a slog, honestly. It took time, and I did not do it alone. I had a great support
network—at home and at UNSW. The key was staying busy. Too much downtime leads to procrastination, and that’s what slows you down. Also… a lot of coffee!
You were recently elected to the Australian Olympic Committee’s Athletes’
Commission. What motivated you to take on this leadership role, and what do you
hope to achieve alongside your fellow Commission members?
I feel a real responsibility to shine a light on Olympic athletes and the support they need.
There’s so much talent in Australia that doesn’t always get the recognition it deserves. I want to help build awareness and make sure these athletes have the support to truly thrive in their careers.
What’s a hidden talent or party trick that your teammates might not know about?
I’ve got a bit of a niche interest in European films and TV. The boys reckon I’m just
deliberately being a contrarian—but honestly, I think the Europeans do it better!
If you could have coffee with any athlete, past or present, who would it be and why?
Usain Bolt—no doubt. Fastest man of all time and an absolute legend of a personality.
For young athletes aspiring to play at the international level, what piece of advice
would you offer to help them navigate the journey?
Discipline and practice. It’s that simple. No shortcuts, no secret sauce. If you commit to those two things, you’ll give yourself every chance.
And last but not least, what’s your go-to Beforeyouspeak blend?!
Toughest question of the lot!
For beans, I’m all about the Espresso Blend—it’s the team favourite too.
For iced coffee, it’s got to be the Double Espresso—hit me with all that caffeine.
And for sachets? The OG. Classics are classics for a reason.
