After graduating from Churchie in 2015, Harry Hockings’ rugby career gathered momentum with selection in both the Queensland and Australian Schoolboys teams before, just a year later, he was representing Queensland Under 20s and becoming the youngest player selected in the Australian Under 20 squad for the World Rugby U20 Championship.

While pursuing his professional rugby career with the Queensland Reds from 2017 to 2020, Harry also completed a Bachelor of Business Management at the University of Queensland, balancing the demands of elite sport with his university studies.

In 2020, Harry took his career to Japan, joining powerhouse club Suntory Sungoliath in the country's top professional competition. Five years later, on 15 November 2025, after qualifying under World Rugby's five-year residency rule, he achieved another career milestone when he made his Test debut for the Japan national team.

Reflecting on his time in Japan, Harry describes it as "an amazing experience" and says of his international debut: "This has definitely been one of the highlights of my career so far."

Looking back on his years at Churchie, Harry is quick to acknowledge the role the Ashdown Bursary played in helping shape his future.

"Being able to attend Churchie gave me opportunities that have had a huge impact on my life, and I genuinely don't think I'd be where I am today without that support. I'm incredibly grateful for the support I received through the Ashdown Bursary."

Harry's journey is a powerful reminder of the lasting impact that the Old Boys community can have, opening doors and creating opportunities that extend far beyond the school gates.

In the Japan national team, Harry is playing alongside fellow Churchie Old Boys Michael Stolberg 2009) and Izi Sword (2019). In their match against Italy last week, they were up against another fellow Old Boy, Monty Ioane (2012).

Through the generosity of Churchie Old Boy and benefactor, Mr Cliff Ashdown (1950), The Cliff Ashdown Bursary supports current students who have suffered adversity (such as family tragedy, illness or severe financial distress), enabling them to complete their schooling at Churchie. Since Cliff’s passing in 2020, his family have continued to generously support this very worthy initiative.