The Alliance
A very special alliance was formed in 1995 between the three provincial rugby unions south of the Waitaki River. This alliance was named the Otago Highlanders and it was formed in order to do battle in the new Super 12 competition. After five years in the competition, Otago was removed from the name, and from this time onwards the team has been known simply as the ‘Highlanders’…a name which fully acknowledge the power of the three unions.
The Name
There is more to the Highlander than heritage, tradition and living history. The name and image of the Highlander conjures up visions of fierce independence, pride in one’s roots, loyalty, strength, kinship, honesty and hard work. Highlanders are traditionally conservative and shaped by enduring values, balanced by action, flare and imagination. There is a unity borne from adversity; Highlanders work hard and play hard – a tight-knit bunch not to be challenged lightly.
The Insignia and Colours
The Highlanders insignia represents a strong and proud warrior battling on the craggy highlands of Scotland. He stands with his arms raised in defiance, in a rampant stance, proud and strong, ready for any challenge that should come his way. In one hand he brandishes a claymore; in the other hand a shield – attack and defence in perfect balance. Modern-day Highlanders play their rugby the same way – ferocious in attack, tenacious in defence. The colours of the emblem and jersey have direct links to the three provinces that make up the Highlanders franchise: gold for North Otago (formed in 1904); blue for Otago (formed in 1881); maroon for Southland (formed in 1886)
Our three unions have come together to form this strong southern alliance under the banner of ‘United We Stand’.
United we Stand
We are part of something special – we play for each other as a team, we play for our loyal and staunch supporters. Come rain, hail or shin our vocal supporters will be there willing our team to win. Being a Highlander means being prepared, being accountable, and being responsible. When our warriors pull on the jersey they represent a proud group of player, they represent all those who have worn the jersey before them, and all those who will proudly wear the jersey in time… they also represent family, bloodlines, this province, and the loyal fans.
All Highlanders be humble, be accessible, be proud in defence, be defiant in attack… be your best!
Taken from and courtesy of www.highlanders-rugby.co.nz . Official home of the Highlanders 25th July 2011
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