Scott Hamilton will leave Canterbury with many happy memories as he starts a new chapter in his rugby career with Leicester in England’s Premiership competition.
Hamilton, the Canterbury and Crusaders winger/fullback, will leave for his new club after the Air New Zealand Cup in November. He joins on a two-year contract.
"I’ve been with Canterbury for my whole career. I was born here and have supported them since I was a wee nipper and it’s been awesome to play here for as long as I have," said Hamilton, who played two tests for the All Blacks in 2006.
"I probably wouldn’t have had as much success if I’d been with another province. We’re a close bunch here and we all live pretty close together in Christchurch so it’s been great off the field too."
Hamilton, 28, said playing his first test for the All Blacks against Argentina in Buenos Aires was a career highlight. He was also victorious in his other test against the Springboks in Wellington.
"Other highlights were winning three Super titles, the Ranfurly Shield twice, and the NPC [in 2004].
"I’ve also really enjoyed playing for my club, Glenmark. I haven’t been able to play as much for them lately but in the past it was great to be able to play in club finals and enjoy some success."
Hamilton rated the Super 12-winning Crusaders of 2005 as one of the most complete sides he has played in. He will be linking up with Aaron Mauger, a member of that team, in Leicester.
"It’s great to have Aaron over there. He’s captain there now and has a big say in the club which has enjoyed some success so I’m looking forward to contributing to their cause once this season is over."
Canterbury assistant coach John Haggart said the team and Canterbury rugby in general would miss Hamilton. "Scott has been such a reliable and consistent performer for Canterbury and the Crusaders over the years that it’s inevitable he will leave a huge hole.
"He plays a big part in organising our attack and defence and is a commanding presence in the dressing room."
Hamilton will play his 71st game for Canterbury in the Air New Zealand Cup match against Hawkes Bay at AMI Stadium, Christchurch, tomorrow night, after making his provincial debut in 2002 against Marlborough.
Hamilton played 58 times for the Crusaders, scoring 105 points (21 tries), after making his Super rugby debut against the Hurricanes in 2003. He was an important attacking threat and defender in the Crusaders’ Super 12 victory in 2005 and their Super 14 victories in 2006 and this year.
He was Canterbury’s leading try scorer (with six) in last year’s Air New Zealand Cup competition.