The Warriors: A Sense of Belonging in Rugby Union – Analysis by Scotty Stevenson

The Warriors have tapped into something special – a sense of belonging that sets them apart from other sports teams. In a recent match against the Sea Eagles, the Warriors showed their mastery of a destiny that defies their club’s history. It wasn’t just the on-field action that made the game memorable, but the atmosphere and feeling of belonging that permeated the stadium.

Rugby union should take note of what the Warriors have achieved in creating a strong sense of community among their fans. While rugby league fans feel a genuine connection to their clubs, rugby union in New Zealand seems to struggle to create the same level of belonging.

The contrast between a Warriors home game at Mount Smart and a Super Rugby match at the Cake Tin is stark. The passion and energy of Warriors fans create an atmosphere that is unmatched, while the Super Rugby games seem to lack the same level of connection with the fans.

The AFL provides a great example of how a club-based competition can foster a lifelong connection between fans and their teams. The Warriors, despite their lack of on-field success, have managed to create a similar sense of belonging among their supporters.

In a sports landscape dominated by big money and broadcast deals, the importance of making fans feel like they are part of the team cannot be overstated. The Warriors have cracked the code in this regard, and rugby union would do well to learn from their example.

Ultimately, the Warriors have shown that there is no substitute for creating a sense of belonging among fans. As they continue to attract new members and foster a strong relationship with their supporters, they set a shining example for other sports teams to follow.