Louie Chapman set for Edinburgh move on two-year deal

The Crusaders can confirm Louie Chapman will depart the club at the end of the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season, with the Canterbury product signing a two-year deal with Edinburgh Rugby – Scotland’s capital rugby club. 

The 25-year-old heads to the Scottish capital following this year’s NPC campaign, bringing his Crusaders chapter to a close after fulfilling a lifelong dream in red and black. 

“This opportunity is a really exciting one for me. It’s a new challenge in my career that I’m really looking forward to,” says Chapman. 

Born and raised in the region, pulling on the Crusaders jersey was always the goal. 

From captaining Christchurch Boys’ High School First XV and serving as Head Boy, to representing the NZ Schools Barbarians in 2017, Chapman’s pathway was built right here in Canterbury. 

He progressed through the Crusaders Junior Knights programme and earned his place in the Crusaders Development squad in 2023, where he made his Super Rugby debut against the Hurricanes. 

“Growing up in Canterbury, it’s every schoolboy’s dream to play for the Crusaders. It’s been a journey I’ll never forget, but now it feels like the right time for a new chapter.” 

That next chapter also carries a special family connection. Chapman is eligible for Scotland through his grandmother, adding extra meaning to the move north. 

“It’s something that makes this opportunity even more special. There’s a strong family connection there and hopefully I can make her, and the rest of my family proud,” he says. 

Alongside his time with the Crusaders, Chapman has been a consistent presence in the NPC. He played 40 games for the Tasman Mako before returning home to Canterbury, where he made 11 appearances during the championship-winning 2025 season. 

Crusaders Head Coach Rob Penney says Chapman’s impact has extended well beyond the field.  

“Louie is a great team man and someone who gives everything to the environment. He’s been a loyal servant to this club, and he deserves all the opportunities that will come his way in Edinburgh. All of us at the Crusaders wish him nothing but the best for this next stage in his career.” 

Chapman will remain with the Crusaders through the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season before making the move overseas.