Leslie Andy

New Zealand rugby player who formerly represented his county in water polo at colts level and softball in 1966. Once established in the Wellington side as No. 8 Leslie made 96 consecutive appearances from 1968-1973 and was chosen by the Rugby Almanac as one of their five Players of the Year for the 1973 season. Born in Lower Hutt, Andy Leslie had two years in the Hutt Valley Technical College 1st XV as second five eight. Joining the Petone club he initially represented Wellington as a forward in 1964, but did not become a first string member of the side until 1968. In 1974, Leslie was a surprise selection in the All Blacks, named captain ahead of the incumbent Ian Kirkpatrick who was also included in the side. He proved an inspired choice, leading the All Blacks on unbeaten tours of Australia and Ireland in 1974, and in successful home series against Scotland and Ireland over the next two seasons. The 1976 tour of South Africa was Andy Leslies swansong. Though the series was narrowly lost he won acclaim for his own play, leadership and sportsmanship. In partnership with another All Black, Bob Scott, in a Mens Outfitters shop in Petone, Leslie retained his involvement with rugby through coaching. This included stints in Ireland and three moderately successful seasons as Wellington coach from 1990-92. Leslie had two rugby playing sons, John and Martin, who represented Otago and Wellington respectively and continued on to play for Scotland. Link to Wikipedia biography Read less