After 15 years as a professional rugby player and 10 years coaching in Japan and New Zealand, Danny Lee recently arrived in California as the head coach of the San Diego Legion. Though the 2022 season has brought plenty of excitement, Lee and the team are looking forward to playing at the state-of-the-art Snapdragon Stadium come 2023, which will be the Legion’s permanent new home. Learn about Danny Lee…
Hometown: Havelock North, Hawkes Bay, New Zealand
First job: Primary school sports coordinator
Favorite ways to spend your free time in CA: We are a very big beach family. Both my boys and I love to surf, so to be in Southern California on the coastline, we’ve hit the jackpot.
Your biggest accomplishment and why: As a player, I was lucky enough to have represented the New Zealand All Blacks which is our National Rugby Team. As a coach, winning the championship with the Hawkes Bay Magpies, that’s within the NZ domestic competition. And obviously my two boys, Koby and Jonty.
The biggest obstacle you overcame: One of the biggest obstacles was living alone for four years in Japan. It was best for us as a family that my kids continued their school education in NZ; therefore, my wife stayed with them. The odd school holidays and short off-season kept us going. We made it work but are now together in San Diego. Not to mention the ups and downs of injuries throughout my career as a player as well as the ups and downs of unfavorable results.
Someone who inspires you and why: My parents (Bill and Raewyn). Very hard-working people, who have given their three boys everything to ensure we are successful, good human beings.
Advice to someone pursuing a career path in what you do: Have a passion for whatever you do, work hard and be patient. Be willing to adapt and grow but enjoy it.
Favorite quote: “Love the life you live, live the life you love.” –Bob Marley
Something someone would be surprised to learn about you: I’m not very tall (5’7”) but I have two older brothers that are 6’3”.
What makes someone fabulous: The ability to live every day to its fullest with balance. Help and grow people around them but also love what you do. Be a good human.