SEGNER COMMITS LONG TERM WITH BLUES
Exciting loose forward Anton Segner has re-signed with the Blues, Auckland Rugby and New Zealand Rugby through to the end of 2031.
One of the longest contracts in the club’s history, the extension will see Segner run out in Blues colours for another five seasons.
Segner said the decision to remain with the Blues and in Auckland was an easy one.
“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.
“I have spent a huge chunk of my life in the 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 (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.”
Born in Frankfurt, Germany, Segner moved to New Zealand in 2017 as a 15-year-old exchange student at Nelson College and realised his dream of becoming an All Black with a debut in July against Italy in Wellington.
The 25-year-old’s new contract comes off the back of an international season that’s included two Test caps and strong performances against the Stormers and Bulls in South Africa before an ankle injury ended his tour early.
His relentless work rate, physicality at the breakdown and ability to lift those around him have made him a key part of the Blues loose forward pack.
Blues GM Rugby Murray Williams said the signing was a statement of intent for the club.
“Anton is exactly the type of person we want at the heart of this club for the long term,” Williams said.
“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 within our region.
“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 guidance. Securing him through 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.”
Segner has made 54 appearances for the Blues since his debut season in 2022 along with 17 appearances for Auckland in the NPC.
Segner’s long-term commitment reflects a career that’s trended upwards since he was selected to the New Zealand Secondary Schools in 2018.
He made his Hilux NPC debut for Tasman in 2020 and signed with the Blues in 2022, moving his Provincial Union allegiance to Auckland in 2024.