What the Yankees are to baseball, the New Zealand All Blacks are to rugby. In addition to an impressive history of victories, the All Blacks bring the most intimidating pre-game ritual in all of the sports with their Haka Dance.
Imagine you’re a rugby player from another country, and you’re playing the All Blacks in an international competition. Before the game, you’ll be treated to this performance.
All Blacks Haka Dance Video
History of the All Blacks Haka Dance
Sports are taken seriously in many places around the world. But the New Zealand All Blacks rugby team has taken competitiveness to another level. They take the sport a step further and start it in a way that reminds you of the ancient tradition of war dance, followed by the Maori.
The Haka dance is part of every All Blacks game. It is the opening note of their games, intended to both motivate the team and strike fear into the hearts of opponents.
Importance of the All Blacks Haka Dance
Rugby is New Zealand’s national game. Today the Haka dance is recognized as central to the All Blacks rugby team’s legacy, apart from its successful track record in the sport. The dance tradition has been associated with the team since the days of Joseph Warbrick, when it was composed of native New Zealanders. Its importance has continued to grow alongside the team’s skills and performance over the years.
Today, this Maori dance has become easily recognizable even in international sports. Even though it originated in Maori culture, it resonates with all Kiwis. Maori tradition plays a crucial role in daily life in the country, and the Haka has been part of the official academic curriculum for over a decade now.
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The Excitement Around Haka Dance
The All Blacks Haka dance is believed to build a strong connection with the audience, most of whom claim that watching it gives them goosebumps and enhances the thrill of the game. In the local language, the audience watching the dance can feel its ‘ihi’ (the unique feeling of thrill).
The tradition of the All Blacks’ Haka dance dates back to the 1880s, when the Native Team of New Zealand performed the ‘Ka Mate’ before an international game. According to the players, the dance helps them mentally and physically prepare for the ‘battle’.
Roots from a War Dance
The history of the Haka dance goes back centuries ago when it was performed as a posture dance when preparing for war. It was performed during the war party before leaving for the battle or right on the battlefield.
The tradition helped the warriors prepare mentally and physically for the impending situation. It is used today in the same spirit to prepare and encourage the players to win the game.
Variations
There are different sets of dance sequences in Haka. The All Blacks will determine the lead and the type of Haka to be performed before a game depending on two factors – their opponents and how the entire team is feeling.
It is a widely held misconception that this dance can be performed only by men. There are several versions of Haka which are intended for men, but others can also be played by women. Some types are meant to be performed only by women.
Check out dance quotes.
The All Blacks
The All Blacks are the only international team to hold a winning record against every nation they have played. Besides, they have a winning record of over 76% and have handed their opponents the heaviest defeats.
They have long maintained their No. 1 status in the international rugby points rankings. Considering this massive success rate of New Zealand’s national rugby team, it would be difficult to argue with the success of the Haka Dance. The inspiration that this unique dance tradition provides works at many levels.
By Mike O’Halloran
Founder and Editor, Sports Feel Good Stories
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Originally published November 2015.
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