Carlos Spencer

Carlos Spencer (of Muaupoko and Ngati Kahungunu iwi) is a legendary figure in New Zealand rugby. He’s enjoyed a distinguished career as a player and has established himself as a respected coach post-retirement.

Spencer began his rugby career at a young age and quickly found himself a gifted athlete with a natural talent for the game. At the tender age of 17, he was scouted by Graham Henry, the Auckland coach, while playing for Horowhenua Kapiti and moved up soon after. He quickly established himself as a critical player for the team and went on to play over 99 games for the Auckland Blues over nine seasons, scoring over 600 points. His impressive performances on the field earned him the nickname "King Carlos", and he remains one of the most revered players in Auckland and New Zealand rugby history.

Spencer’s time with the All Blacks cemented his status as one of the greatest fly-halves to have played the game, playing 35 tests for the international team between 1997 and 2004. He represented the NZ Maori and played for Northampton Saints, Gloucester, and various South African teams before retiring. Since then, Spencer has made a name for himself as a highly respected coach, with stints at the Lions, Sharks, Kings, New Orleans Gold and the Hurricanes. Spencer is known for his innovative and out-of-the-box thinking and was excited to bring these skills to the Blues as an assistant coach for the women's team in Super Rugby Aupiki in 2023.

Carlos' goal is to encourage growth and support for women's rugby, especially in the wake of the recent Rugby World Cup success for the Black Ferns. With his wealth of experience and talent, Carlos Spencer is an asset to any team he joins.