From Dutch Village to All Black Legend: Fabian Holland’s Unlikely Rugby Fairytale
It’s not every day you hear of an All Black named Fabian. And it’s even rarer to encounter one who spent the formative first 16 years of their life in a quaint, tiny village in the Netherlands called Akersloot. Yet, for Fabian Holland, this seemingly improbable rugby fairytale is very much a reality. This towering figure, standing at a formidable 204cm and weighing in at 124kg, has not only achieved his dreams but has also been recognised as World Rugby’s Breakthrough Player of the Year.
A Childhood Spark Ignited by Rugby
Holland’s journey into the world of rugby began unexpectedly in 2009, at the tender age of six. A particular match between Wales and the All Blacks, a tense 19-12 victory for New Zealand, caught his eye. It was then, watching Dan Carter’s precision kicking, that the seed was planted. Within a week, Holland had signed up for a local rugby club in the Netherlands, instantly falling in love with the sport.
Growing up in a nation where football reigns supreme, obtaining rugby knowledge wasn’t always easy. However, Holland’s passion was unwavering. He devoured every bit of rugby content he could find, adorning his bedroom walls with posters of All Blacks legends. His dedication extended to his language skills; he honed his English by listening intently to Kiwi commentators like Justin Marshall, absorbing the nuances of the game from the other side of the globe.
A Dream Takes Flight: The All Blacks’ Influence
A pivotal moment in Holland’s burgeoning rugby aspirations occurred in 2014. The New Zealand sevens team, en route to the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, made an unexpected stop at Holland’s local club, Castricum Rugby Club, a short distance from the North Sea coast. This encounter with luminaries such as Tim Mikkelsen and DJ Forbes was profoundly inspiring.
“And that’s when the dream of becoming an All Black started,” the now 23-year-old giant fondly recalls. While he may not have had the physique for sevens at that stage, the aura of the All Blacks captivated him, solidifying his admiration and solidifying his ambition.
A Bold Leap of Faith: The Move to New Zealand
The path forward was anything but conventional. At 16, Holland made a significant decision, convincing his parents, chemical engineer Reinout and nature management expert Margot, to uproot their lives and move to New Zealand. His initial destination was Christchurch Boys’ High School, a renowned rugby powerhouse with a storied history of producing elite talent. The school boasts an impressive alumni list that includes rugby royalty such as Dan Carter, Andrew Mehrtens, Brodie Retallick, Robbie Deans, Anton Lienert-Brown, and the Franks brothers, Owen and Ben.
Holland attributes his remarkable success wholeheartedly to his parents’ unwavering support. “I wouldn’t be where I am today without my parents, 100 per cent,” he states emphatically. “They probably put a bit of their own ambition aside for me to chase my dream. And that is something I will never take for granted.”
When questioned about whether his parents ever suggested a more traditional Dutch career path, such as managing a wind farm, Holland’s response is enthusiastic. “No, no, not really!” he exclaims, his accent a unique blend of Dutch and a developing Kiwi southern drawl. “They knew from a young age that was my dream. And for them to help me take a step towards the dream, was very important.” He acknowledges their belief in his courage and determination, noting, “They’ve always been in my corner and I still have them on the phone every day.”
Rising Through the Ranks
Holland’s rugby development began in the school’s second XV, a challenging yet formative experience. “The first few weeks were a shock,” he admits, before his steady progress saw him earn a place in the top team. His initial six-month stay in New Zealand evolved into a permanent relocation as his imposing frame, athleticism, and profound love for the game propelled him rapidly through the representative levels.
His talent was further recognised with selections for the NZ Schools and NZ under-20s teams. A subsequent move south to Dunedin saw him represent Otago and the Highlanders, where coach Jamie Joseph played a crucial role in refining his game. Last year, Holland etched his name in history as the first Dutch-born player to don the iconic All Blacks jersey. He seamlessly integrated into Test level rugby, participating in 11 out of 12 international matches, with his first haka performance marking a moment of profound significance.
A Breakthrough Year and Future Aspirations
Holland’s exceptional performances culminated in him being named World Rugby’s Breakthrough Player of the Year, ahead of other talented contenders like Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii, Henry Pollock, and Ethan Hooker. This extraordinary story has resonated deeply in his homeland, but Holland remains grounded and focused.
While Holland will unfortunately miss the Highlanders’ opening match of the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season against the defending champions, the Crusaders, due to a dislocated shoulder, he expresses confidence in his team. “We’re a young team but we’re feeling really well balanced across the board and we’ve got a very, very hungry group. So just keen to rip in.”
Looking ahead, Holland is determined to make a strong comeback. “I’m starting from zero again. Have a good season with the Highlanders and hopefully play my way back into the All Blacks. It’s never given. It wasn’t that long ago that I was one of those young guys in the environment.” His journey is a testament to the power of dreams, perseverance, and the invaluable support of family, proving that with enough passion and dedication, even the most unlikely fairytales can come true.
