[4] During this time, he was called up to play for the Ireland national rugby union team, making his debut against Scotland in 1947.
[3][6] After retiring from playing, Higgins became the president of the Ulster branch of the IRFU in 1960.
[3] He would later serve as the vice-president of the IRFU in 1975 but would take over as president following the death of Jim Keane after 12 days.
[2] Following these roles, he would act as treasurer for Ulster and as a selector for Ireland for four years.
[2] In 1996, both Higgins and fellow 1948 Grand Slam winner Bertie O'Hanlon were inducted into the Rugby Writers of Ireland Hall of Fame.