Sean Fitzpatrick Biography

Sean Fitzpatrick is widely regarded as one of the finest hookers to have played the game of rugby in New Zealand, and around the world. Having made his way into the Auckland provincial side, Fitzpatrick made his international debut as one of the “Baby Blacks” that toured France in 1986 and went from strength to strength.

Most of the full New Zealand squad were banned from the tour due to the unauthorised “Cavaliers” tour of South Africa, which opened the door for promising players such as Fitzpatrick to nail down a place in the first team. New Zealand won the series overall, but Fitzpatrick found himself as deputy to Captain Andy Dalton once the bans were lifted.

The young Fitzpatrick was part of the squad for the first Rugby World Cup and was brought into the team in the early stages after Dalton picked up an injury, maintaining his place for the final despite the skipper returning to fitness.

His performances in the New Zealand side earned him the captaincy in 1992, a role he held until his retirement, and he was selected for the series against the British Lions a year later, leading the side to victory. However, Fitzpatrick wasn’t to be on the winning side in the 1995 World Cup, as the All Blacks were beaten by South Africa in the final.

Fitzpatrick began to struggle with injuries towards the end of his career, and was included in the touring party to the UK in 1997 despite being an injury concern. He made his 92nd and final appearance for the All Blacks as a replacement at Wembley in the 42-7 win against Wales.

Having retired from the game, Fitzpatrick has resisted the temptation of moving into coaching, instead choosing to focus on his leadership and motivational skills with his successful motivational speaking business, What We Can Be.