New All Black Anton Segner putting rugby on the map in Germany

While a traditional footballing stronghold, Germany could be set for a rugby resurgence now that the country has its first All Black.

Rugby was first played in Germany in 1850, but was never able to compete with its round-ball cousin.

But newly-named All Black Anton Segner is putting rugby back on the map.

After moving to New Zealand from Germany as a teenager to chase his rugby dream, Segner said the response back home since becoming an All Black had been “huge”.

“I’m getting plenty of comments and messages of support and people saying how proud all of German rugby is of me. The German rugby president actually got in touch with me to say that all of German rugby is right behind you. People reaching out to my family members saying that what I’ve achieved is truly special, it’s very special to see.”

Segner said that even in football-mad nations, the All Black brand carried respect.

“It goes to show that the All Blacks are bigger than just a New Zealand rugby team. They definitely have a global impact and are respected globally, even in the non-rugby nations like Germany.”

Asked if rugby could ever usurp football in Germany, Segner joked he would like to see it happen.

“That’s an idea that I might have to raise. I think football times is over. Bring rugby back in there again.”

Segner made his debut in the All Blacks’ 47-17 win over Italy at the weekend, with his family flying in from Frankfurt to witness the milestone.

However, it was his mother, Eva, that stole the media spotlight with her infectious personality as cameras followed her in Wellington.

“Oh my god, she took over the microphone and interviewed me and I was like, ‘I’m not sure that’s your job, but go for it’,” Segner said.

Having been touted as a future All Black since playing for Nelson College, Segner said the reality was still sinking in.

“On Sunday, travelling back, I had a bit of a moment to sort of digest it all. After having been a part of two test weeks, now I obviously know what it looks like. I guess that has upped my confidence a little bit, knowing what the process is, but the one thing that hasn’t changed is that I’m enjoying every step of the way.”

But Segner said there was not too much time to reflect on his journey, with the biggest test of the year to date waiting in the form of Ireland.

“We’re going to have to roll our sleeves up. We respect the Irish, while also knowing what we’re capable of.”

He said the rivalry with Ireland had grown to become one of the All Blacks’ biggest.

“I think it was 2012 when Ryan Crotty scored the winner in the corner. That’s one picture that’s sort of been floating in my head the last couple of days, iconic All Blacks Irish test and I think that that’s a prime example that what it takes to beat the Irish is an 80 plus minute effort.”