Shaun Stevenson, born on 14 November 1996, is a talented New Zealand rugby union player known for his versatility as an outside back. He currently represents North Harbour in New Zealand's domestic Mitre 10 Cup and the Chiefs in the international Super Rugby competition.
Hailing from North Shore in the Auckland suburbs, Stevenson attended Auckland Grammar School, where he showcased his rugby skills by playing for the first XV for three years. During his high school years, he also had the opportunity to play for the local Super Rugby franchise, the Blues, at the under-18 level.
Stevenson began his provincial career in 2015 with Waikato, a Hamilton-based team. He made his debut against Tasman in August 2015 and impressively started in all 10 games during the season, scoring four tries. His outstanding performance earned him the Waikato Supporters Club player of the year award, recognizing his exceptional debut season. Unfortunately, his 2016 season was marred by an MCL knee injury in the opening match, which ruled him out for the rest of the year.
In October 2016, it was announced that Stevenson would join North Harbour, a newly promoted Mitre 10 Cup Premiership side, for the 2017 season, marking a return to his place of birth.
Stevenson's impressive provincial performances caught the attention of the Chiefs, a local Super Rugby franchise, who included him in their wider training group for the 2016 Super Rugby season. He made his debut in the opening match against the Crusaders but suffered a shoulder injury that kept him out for several weeks. Despite the setback, he played six times and scored two tries in his debut season. His promising performances earned him a spot in the Chiefs' main squad for the 2017 season.
Stevenson continued to make strides in his career, earning 23 Super Rugby caps by the end of the 2017 season. He also had the opportunity to represent the Chiefs against the British and Irish Lions. Additionally, he contributed to North Harbour's successful Mitre 10 Cup campaign, helping them reach the semi-finals. His performances earned him a place in the Maori All Blacks squad for the end-of-year tour.
Stevenson continued to represent the Maori All Blacks in 2018 and 2019, further solidifying his standing in the rugby community.
Stevenson's talent was recognized at an early stage, representing New Zealand Schools in 2014. He was also a member of the New Zealand Under-20 side that participated in the 2016 World Rugby Under 20 Championship, where he showcased his skills by scoring five tries in four appearances.
Looking ahead, Stevenson's notable performances in Super Rugby have garnered attention, with many suggesting that he should be considered for selection in the All Blacks. His speed, versatility, and try-scoring ability make him a promising prospect for international honors.
Off the field, Stevenson signed a contract extension with the Chiefs until 2023 in May 2019. He has already displayed his scoring prowess with hat-tricks and standout performances in the 2023 Super Rugby season, further solidifying his case for higher honors.
KG(31/05/2023)
Career
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Chiefs Fullback |
2015 - present |
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North Harbour Fullback |
2017 - present |
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All Blacks XV Fullback |
2022 - present |
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Waikato Fullback |
2015 - 2016 |
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New Zealand U20's Fullback |
2016 - 2016 |
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Barbarians Right Wing |
2019 - 2019 |
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Maori All Blacks Fullback |
2017 - 2024 |
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New Zealand Fullback |
2023 - 2024 |
