At Home: Clark Laidlaw Signs Contract Extension with Hurricanes
Clark Laidlaw, the head coach of New Zealand’s Wellington Hurricanes, has officially extended his contract for an additional year, marking the beginning of his fourth year in charge. This decision highlights his commitment to the team and his belief in its potential for further growth and success.
Following a successful tenure, where Laidlaw guided the Hurricanes to both a semi-final and a qualifying final throughout the past two Super Rugby seasons, the team’s current position at the top of the standings after the initial five rounds of this year further cements his coaching capabilities.
In his own words, Laidlaw expressed, “I really feel like I’m at home here. We play a brand of rugby that aligns well with my understanding and philosophy of the game.” This sentiment underscores his integration into the team and the culture of rugby in New Zealand, where he has even become a citizen.
With an extensive background, Laidlaw previously showcased his skills as a player in Scotland’s Sevens team, boasting over 90 appearances. He also holds experience as a coach with the All Blacks Sevens, which adds to his credibility and understanding of the game at an elite level.
Interestingly, the Laidlaw name carries a strong legacy in rugby; Clark’s father, Roy, was instrumental in Scotland’s Grand Slam victory in 1984, the year after he toured New Zealand with the British and Irish Lions. Moreover, Clark’s cousin, Greig, also an accomplished player, participated in the Lions’ tour of New Zealand in 2017 and has over 70 Test appearances, many of which were as captain.
As the season progresses, the Hurricanes are set to face the Otago Highlanders in what promises to be an exciting match-up, further adding to Laidlaw’s challenges and opportunities to demonstrate the team’s development on the field.
