Anton Segner puts pen to paper on long-term All Blacks future

The All Blacks have secured the long-term future of one of their brightest young prospects, German-born loose-forward Anton Segner.

The versatile Blues and All Blacks forward described Auckland as “home”, saying he’s 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’ll be playing my rugby, and there’s no place I’d rather be than here in Auckland,” Segner said in an NZR media release.

“I have spent a huge chunk of my life in the ‘09, and it’s that 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 excited me as well as the direction of New Zealand Rugby as a whole, so it was a no-brainer.”

All Blacks Head Coach Dave Rennie said that Segner’s story is inspiring, and they are delighted to secure the services of the loose-forward until after the 2031 Rugby World Cup.

“Anton’s a great example of what this jersey means to people. He left home at 15, backed himself, and has worked incredibly hard to get where he is. Committing through to 2031 shows how much he wants to be part of this team,” Rennie said.

“Anton is a hell of an athlete and has physical presence on both sides of the ball. His anticipation post-tackle, versatility and work ethic are genuine points of difference. 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 genuine world-class player, and seeing 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 how he trains and in how he carries himself, and our younger players look to him for that. Securing him through to 2031 gives us huge stability as we build towards sustained success. Anton has made Auckland his home, and to have someone of his calibre commit to this city and this club for this length of time says a lot about where the Blues are heading.”

Jarrod Bear, Auckland Rugby’s CEO, said they are looking forward to seeing Segner grow in the Blue and White hoops.

“Anton has made Auckland home and has been immense when he has worn the Blue and White hoops. We’re stoked Anton has committed to Auckland Rugby through until 2031 and excited to see him continue to make his mark, both on and off the field.”