Sir Steve Hansen's illustrious career in rugby, both as a player and a coach, is marked by a series of notable achievements and a profound impact on the sport, particularly with the New Zealand National Rugby Union Team, the All-Blacks. His journey from representing Canterbury in his youth to becoming a revered coach epitomises a life dedicated to rugby. Steve Hansen began his rugby career playing for the Canterbury Rugby Football Union, where he made 21 appearances. His transition to coaching saw him lead the Canterbury Provincial Rugby Union Team to victories in the National Provincial Championship in 1997 and 2001, showcasing his leadership and strategic acumen early in his coaching career. His success at the provincial level led to a role as an assistant coach with the Canterbury Crusaders, further honing his coaching skills.
In 2002, Steve's coaching journey took him to Wales, where he served initially as Forwards Coach before being elevated to Head Coach. Despite facing challenges, including a series of defeats, his tenure was marked by moments of resilience and strategic improvements. Steve returned to New Zealand to become an Assistant Coach of the All-Blacks, contributing to their 2011 World Cup win. The pinnacle of Steve's career came when he was appointed as the Head Coach of the All-Blacks in 2011. Under his guidance, New Zealand clinched the 2015 Rugby World Cup and enjoyed a dominant run, securing The Rugby Championship six times and maintaining their stronghold on the Bledisloe Cup. His tactical prowess and ability to motivate and manage top-tier talent were evident as the All-Blacks remained a formidable force in world rugby.
Steve's coaching excellence was recognised globally, receiving the World Rugby Coach of the Year award multiple times. His teams were consistently celebrated for their performance, with the All-Blacks winning the World Rugby Team of the Year several times under his tenure.
Today, Steve Hansen's extensive experience and deep understanding of the game make him a highly sought-after after dinner speaker. His speeches not only delve into his vast knowledge of rugby but also draw on his leadership qualities and the strategic insights that led the All-Blacks to numerous victories. Steve's ability to articulate the principles of high performance and team dynamics resonates well with audiences, making him an exemplary speaker for any event focused on sports, leadership and achieving excellence. His continued involvement in rugby, including his recent role assisting with the 2023 Rugby World Cup campaign, keeps him at the forefront of the sport, enhancing his appeal as a speaker who brings current insights and a rich history of success.
