Riley Higgins signs first professional Super Rugby contract with Hurricanes
Riley Higgins made his debut for Hurricanes in 2022
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Hurricanes have announced that Riley Higgins has signed his first Super Rugby professional contract.
Higgins joined the club as an injury cover earlier in the year and made his debut against the Fijian Drua in Wellington.
Even though he is yet to feature in a provincial rugby, the 20-year-old has represented Hurricanes U18s and New Zealand Schools in 2020, followed by the Hurricanes U20s apart from featuring for New Zealand Under 20 side in 2021 and 2022.
“Yeah, it’s a special moment for me. I think last year, the NDC [National Development Contract] was a great steppingstone into the professional environment, but I am definitely excited to finally get a proper contract with the Hurricanes," said Higgins to the club's official website.
“Even though I grew up in Christchurch, I was born in Palmy [Palmerston North] and I have always supported the Hurricanes, so it’s a great feeling to be here now".
Hurricanes head coach Jason Holland was pleased for Higgins to sign a contract with the club.
“Riley has come through the academy system and is a good, strong midfielder who we’ve got a lot of time for. He has a bright future ahead of him,” said Holland.
“Just like many young players, you wait for your time, and work away behind the scenes and now he’s got to that stage. He’s since gone from strength to strength, showing real potential. He’s worked really hard for his spot and is ambitious.”
