Matthew Clarkin: From Top 14 Captain to Director of Rugby
Matthew Clarkin is a distinguished figure in professional rugby union, known for his physical presence on the field and his strategic leadership off it. Born in Cirencester, England, on July 4, 1981, Clarkin transitioned from a successful playing career in France to high-level sports management, establishing himself as a key architect of team success.
Coming from a sporting lineage, he is the son of Chele and Paul Clarkin—the latter internationally recognized as 'Mr Polo'—and the brother of professional polo player John-Paul Clarkin.
Key Facts
- Born: July 4, 1981, in Cirencester, England.
- Physical Profile: 1.96 m (6 ft 5 in) tall and weighing 105 kg.
- Playing Position: No. 8 (the back of the scrum).
- Career Highlight: Captained Union Bordeaux Bègles in the Top 14.
- Current Role: Director of Rugby at NISSA RUGBY in Nice.
Professional Playing Career
Clarkin spent the majority of his professional playing days in France, competing at the highest level of the sport. He began his senior trajectory with US Montauban, where he made 111 appearances and scored 35 points between 2004 and 2010.
His career reached new heights when he joined Bordeaux, where he served as captain of the Top 14 team, Union Bordeaux Bègles. From 2010 to 2016, he became a cornerstone of the squad, recording 130 appearances and 47 points before retiring after the 2015/16 season.
On the pitch, Clarkin was highly regarded for his ability to orchestrate play. His style was characterized by a strong work ethic and a tactical approach to hitting the ball into the opposition, which effectively created vital space for his back line to exploit.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Transition to Rugby Management
Following his retirement as a player, Clarkin transitioned into leadership roles within the sport. He served as the Director of Rugby for Biarritz Olympique from 2018 to 2024, overseeing the strategic and technical direction of the club.
In July 2025, Clarkin embarked on a new chapter, accepting the position of Director of Rugby for the ambitious NISSA RUGBY team based in Nice.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Height/Weight | 1.96 m / 105 kg |
| US Montauban (2004–2010) | 111 Apps (35 Points) |
| Bordeaux (2010–2016) | 130 Apps (47 Points) |
| Management Roles | Biarritz Olympique, NISSA RUGBY |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where was Matthew Clarkin born?
Matthew Clarkin was born on July 4, 1981, in Cirencester, England.
What position did Matthew Clarkin play in rugby union?
He played as a No. 8, a position responsible for both scrummaging and linking play between the forwards and the backs.
Which teams did he play for during his professional career?
He played for US Montauban from 2004 to 2010 and Union Bordeaux Bègles from 2010 to 2016.
What is his current professional role?
As of July 2025, Matthew Clarkin is the Director of Rugby for NISSA RUGBY in Nice.
Who are Matthew Clarkin's family members?
He is the son of Chele and Paul Clarkin (known as 'Mr Polo') and the brother of professional polo player John-Paul Clarkin.