All Blacks fans asked to sing their support

Media release

June 24 2010

All Blacks fans asked to sing their support

Kiwis need to lift their game with God Defend New Zealand

New All Blacks supporters movement BackingBlack is calling on Waikato fans to show their support for the team at Saturday’s test against Wales by singing the national anthem loudly and proudly – including the first verse in Te Reo Maori.

Ben ‘Jarmo’ Sturmfels, a founding member of BackingBlack, says singing God Defend New Zealand is a key part of supporting the All Blacks, but many people don’t actually know the first verse.

“Singing the national anthem is a great way to let the All Blacks know we’re behind them, but all too often people lip synch the first verse, before joining in for the more familiar second verse in english.”

Belting out the anthem in full voice is even more important when facing Wales and their renowned singing talent, says Ben.

“The Welsh really set the standard when it comes to supporting their team with The Land of My Fathers and if we don’t up our game we could risk being out-sung.”

BackingBlack is asking Kiwis to learn and sing the Te Reo Maori verse after a campaign was launched recently by Palmerston North man Ross Neilson.

Local fans will have the opportunity to get in some singing practise at a public event to welcome Wales to Hamilton on Saturday in Garden Place, from 11am-1pm.

BackingBlack members and Welsh supporters will show how the anthems should be sung before teaching the public the Te Reo Maori verse. Tickets to Saturday night’s test match at Waikato Stadium will be given away to the best performers.

Ends

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