mens
international
The All black people have secured the long-term future of one of their brightest young prospects, German-born loose forward Anton Segner.
Versatile Blues and the All Blacks forward described Auckland as “home”, saying he was grateful to be allowed to represent the Auckland region and New Zealand.
“Signing a long extension with the Blues, Auckland Rugby and New Zealand Rugby gives me a long-term idea of where I’m going to play my rugby, and there’s no place I’d rather be than here in Auckland,” Segner said in an NZR media release.
“I spent a big part of my life in ’09, and it’s a place that has given me so many opportunities. This is my home away from home, and I absolutely love it here. I’m very grateful to have been given this opportunity. Playing under Alfie (Blues head coach Jason Holland) is something that has excited me as well as the Rubri as a whole.”
All Blacks head coach Dave Rennie said Segner’s story was inspiring and they were delighted to secure the services of the loose forward until the 2031 Rugby World Cup.
“Anton is a great example of what this shirt means to people. He left home at 15, supported himself and worked incredibly hard to get where he is. The commitment until 2031 shows how much he wants to be part of this team,” said Rennie.
“Anton is a hell of an athlete and a physical presence on both sides of the ball. His anticipation after the break, versatility and work ethic are real differentiators. This is a great signing for New Zealand rugby.”
Blues general manager of rugby Murray Williams explained that the deal gives both the club and Segner long-term stability.
“Anton is exactly the type of person we want at the heart of this club for the long term. We’ve seen him develop into a real world-class player and to see him pull on the black jersey this year was a proud moment for everyone at the Blues.”
“What stands out as much as his rugby is his leadership. Anton sets the standard every day, both in training and in the way he conducts himself, and our younger players look up to him for that. Securing him until 2031 gives us enormous stability as we build towards sustained success. Anton has made Auckland his home, and to have someone from this city and for a long time for this club we say this club is where the Blues are going for a long time.”
Auckland Rugby chief executive Jarrod Bear said they were looking forward to seeing Segner grow in the blue and white hoops.
“Anton brought Auckland home and was tremendous when wearing the blue and white hoops. We are delighted that Anton has committed to Auckland Rugby until 2031 and excited to see him continue to make his mark both on and off the field.”
