 A pro runner from Wollongong, Hanigan was selected to represent Southern New South Wales against the touring Great Britain team in 1966, scoring a try.He signed on to play in Sydney's NSWRFL competition with the Manly-Warringah club in 1967.That year he set a new club record for most tries in a match when he scored five tries in a match against competition newcomers, Cronulla-Sutherland.