Citizendia

For the speedway team, see Canterbury Crusaders (speedway). The Canterbury Crusaders were a Motorcycle speedway team who operated from the Kingsmead Stadium, Kingsmead Road Canterbury.
Crusaders
Founded 1996
Union New Zealand Rugby Union
Location Christchurch, New Zealand
Region Canterbury
Tasman
West Coast
Marlborough & Nelson
Ground(s) AMI Stadium
Capacity 36,500[1]
Coach Robbie Deans
Captain Richie McCaw[2]
League Super 14
2008 Champion
Team colours Team colours Team colours
Team colours
Team colours
　
Home colours
Team colours Team colours Team colours
Team colours
Team colours
　
Away colours
Official website
www.crfu.co.nz
Flag of New Zealand

The Crusaders (formerly the Canterbury Crusaders) are a New Zealand rugby union team based in Christchurch that compete in the Super 14 (formerly the Super 12). The New Zealand Rugby Union (NZRU (formerly the New Zealand Rugby Football Union (NZRFU is the governing body of Rugby union in New Zealand. Christchurch (Ōtautahi The largest City in the South Island, it is also the second largest city and third largest urban area of New Zealand New Zealand is an Island country in the south-western Pacific Ocean comprising two main landmasses (the North Island and the South Island The New Zealand region of Canterbury (Waitaha is mainly composed of the Canterbury Plains and the surrounding mountains Coverage Tasman District is a large area at the top western side of the South Island of New Zealand Naming To New Zealanders the term 'The Coast' generally refers to the West Coast of the South Island, and 'Coasters' to those that live there Geography Marlborough's geography can be roughly divided into four sections History Early settlement Settlement of Nelson began about 1100 years ago by Māori AMI Stadium, formerly Jade Stadium and Lancaster Park, is a sports stadium situated in Christchurch, New Zealand. Robert Maxwell Deans, born 4 September 1959 in Cheviot, New Zealand is the current coach of the Wallabies Richard Hugh "Richie" McCaw (born 31 December 1980 in Kurow, Oamaru) is a New Zealand Rugby union player The Super 14 is the largest Rugby union football club championship in the Southern hemisphere, consisting of four state teams from Australia (Queensland/Reds The 2008 Super 14 season started in February 2008 with pre-season matches held from mid-January New Zealand is an Island country in the south-western Pacific Ocean comprising two main landmasses (the North Island and the South Island Overview See also Playing rugby union A rugby union match lasts for 80 minutes (plus stoppage time with a short Christchurch (Ōtautahi The largest City in the South Island, it is also the second largest city and third largest urban area of New Zealand The Super 14 is the largest Rugby union football club championship in the Southern hemisphere, consisting of four state teams from Australia (Queensland/Reds They are the most successful team in Super Rugby history. The franchise represents the Buller, Canterbury, Mid-Canterbury, South Canterbury, Tasman, and West Coast provincial rugby unions. The Buller Rugby Football Union (BRFU is a rugby province based in Westport, New Zealand The Canterbury Rugby Football Union' (CRFU is the official governing body for Rugby union in a substantial part of the Canterbury region of New The Mid Canterbury Rugby Football Union (MCRFU is a rugby province in the South Island of New Zealand The South Canterbury Rugby Football Union (SCRFU is a rugby province based in the central South Island city of Timaru, New Zealand. The Tasman Rugby Union is New Zealand's newest provincial union The West Coast Rugby Football Union, formed in 1890 is the official governing body for rugby union in a substantial part of the West Coast region of New Zealand and is Their main home ground is AMI Stadium, formerly Jade Stadium and Lancaster Park. AMI Stadium, formerly Jade Stadium and Lancaster Park, is a sports stadium situated in Christchurch, New Zealand.

Formed in 1996 to represent the upper South Island of New Zealand in the Super 12, the team struggled in its first season and finished last. The South Island is the larger of the two major islands of New Zealand, the other being the more populous North Island. Their performance improved in 1997 and the team finished sixth (out of twelve teams). The team went on to win all three titles from 1998 to 2000 despite each final being played away from home. They again won the competition in 2002 after going through the season unbeaten. In the following two seasons, they again reached the final, although they were beaten on both occasions. 2005 was the last season of the Super 12 before its expansion. After finishing top of the table in that season, the Crusaders went on to host the final in which they defeated the Waratahs. The New South Wales Waratahs (referred to as HSBC Waratahs for sponsorship reasons the Waratahs or simply the ' Tahs) are an Australian As a result of winning their fifth Super 12 title, the Crusaders were given the trophy to keep. In 2006, the Crusaders hosted the Hurricanes in the inaugural Super 14 final and won 19–12. The Hurricanes (formerly known as the Wellington Hurricanes) are a New Zealand Rugby Union team based in Wellington, New Zealand that Road to the Final See also 2006 Super 14 season Pre-game The game was expected to be centred around the defence of both sides In 2008 the crusaders hosted the final at AMI stadium against the Waratahs,and won the match 20–12, to claim their seventh super rugby title. The New South Wales Waratahs (referred to as HSBC Waratahs for sponsorship reasons the Waratahs or simply the ' Tahs) are an Australian

In addition to winning more Super titles than any other team (7), the franchise also holds several competition records, including most points in a game and most tries in a game, both achieved in their 96-19 victory over the Waratahs in 2002. This list of Super Rugby records is a list of records from the Super 12 and Super 14 Rugby union competition which began in 1996 following a deal with A try is the major way of scoring points in Rugby league and Rugby union. They have also scored the most points in one season: 469 in 2002. Several members of the Crusaders also hold records: Andrew Mehrtens for most points in a Super 12 season (206 in 1998), Daniel Carter with most points in a Super 14 season (221 in 2006), and Rico Gear for most tries in a season (15 in 2005). Andrew Philip Mehrtens MNZM (born 28 April 1973 in Durban, South Africa) is a Daniel William "Dan" Carter (born 5 March 1982 in Southbridge, near Christchurch, New Zealand is a New Zealand Rugby union footballer Rico Levi Gear (born 26 February 1978 in Gisborne) is a New Zealand Rugby union international player Five players have played over 100 games for the franchise: Justin Marshall, Reuben Thorne, Caleb Ralph, Greg Somerville and Leon MacDonald. Justin Warren Marshall, MNZM (born 5 August 1973) is a New Zealand Rugby union footballer Reuben David Thorne (born January 2, 1975 in Christchurch) is a New Zealand Rugby union player and former captain of the national Caleb Stan Ralph (born 10 September 1977 in Rotorua) is a New Zealand Rugby union footballer Greg Mardon Somerville is a New Zealand Rugby union player Somerville is currently in the New Zealand national side the All Blacks and is a front rower Leon Raymond MacDonald (born 21 December 1977 in Blenheim) is a New Zealand Rugby union footballer They also have two International Rugby Board Players of the Year: Daniel Carter (2005), and Richie McCaw (2006). The International Rugby Board (IRB is the world governing and law-making body for the sport of Rugby union, and previously for Rugby football. Richard Hugh "Richie" McCaw (born 31 December 1980 in Kurow, Oamaru) is a New Zealand Rugby union player

Contents

History

Beginnings: 1996 and 1997

The Crusaders' franchise was created as one of five New Zealand teams in the Super 12. Originally named the Canterbury Crusaders, the Crusaders' franchise area encompassed the upper South Island of New Zealand (see Super 14 franchise areas), and was formed from the Buller, Canterbury, Marlborough, Mid-Canterbury, Nelson Bays, South Canterbury, and West Coast rugby unions. The South Island is the larger of the two major islands of New Zealand, the other being the more populous North Island. The Super 14 competition in Rugby union, including teams from Australia, New Zealand and South Africa, is based on a franchise system Marlborough Rugby Union was a New Zealand Rugby union team that played from 1888-2005 [3][4] The original Crusaders team of 1996 was captained by All Blacks prop Richard Loe and coached by Vance Stewart. The All Blacks are New Zealand's national team in Rugby union, the country's National sport. A Rugby union team is made up of 15 players eight forwards numbered from 1 to 8 and seven backs numbered from 9 to 15 Richard Wyllie Loe (born 6 April 1960 in Christchurch New Zealand) was a renowned and hugely talented All Black prop forward with a reputation [5] The Crusaders struggled in the inaugural season and finished bottom of the table with only two wins. [6] Their eight losses included a 49–18 loss to the Blues and a 52–16 loss to the Queensland Reds. The Blues, formerly the Auckland Blues, are a professional New Zealand Rugby union franchise based in Auckland New Zealand which represents The Queensland Reds (for sponsorship reasons referred to as QR Queensland Reds) represent Queensland in the sport of Rugby union. [7]

The following season saw a change in captain and coach, with Todd Blackadder succeeding Loe as captain and Wayne Smith taking over as coach. Todd Julian Blackadder (born September 20 1971 in Rangiora) is a former professional New Zealand Rugby union player and professional Wayne Ross Smith (born 19 April 1957 in Putaruru, New Zealand) is a former Rugby union footballer and currently a rugby union [5] With five wins, the team finished the round-robin stage in sixth place. [8] The improvement was particularly illustrated by the Crusaders' 29–28 loss to the defending champions, the Blues, which contrasted with their 49–18 loss the previous season. (The Blues also went on to win the 1997 title). [9] During this loss, Leon MacDonald was taken out with a shoulder charge by Robin Brooke. Leon Raymond MacDonald (born 21 December 1977 in Blenheim) is a New Zealand Rugby union footballer While the Crusaders attempted to get MacDonald back on the field, the Blues scored two tries, including one by Brooke, who was later suspended for two weeks for the shoulder charge. [9] In their last game of 1997, the Crusaders beat the Queensland Reds 48–3 at Lancaster Park, now known as AMI Stadium. AMI Stadium, formerly Jade Stadium and Lancaster Park, is a sports stadium situated in Christchurch, New Zealand. [8]

Hat trick: 1998 to 2000

Todd Blackadder holding the Super 12 trophy after the Crusaders won the 1998 final against the Blues at Eden Park.
Todd Blackadder holding the Super 12 trophy after the Crusaders won the 1998 final against the Blues at Eden Park. Todd Julian Blackadder (born September 20 1971 in Rangiora) is a former professional New Zealand Rugby union player and professional The Blues, formerly the Auckland Blues, are a professional New Zealand Rugby union franchise based in Auckland New Zealand which represents Eden Park is the main sports ground in Auckland, New Zealand for both Rugby union during winter and Cricket in summer

The Crusaders won their first title in 1998, despite starting the season with three losses in their first four games. They finished the round-robin by winning their last seven games, culminating in a last-round win over the Coastal Sharks (now the Sharks) that gave them second place in the round-robin phase of the competition. A round-robin tournament or all-play-all tournament is a type of group tournament in which each participant plays every other participant an equal number of times The Natal Sharks are a South African Rugby union team that participate in the annual Currie Cup Tournament. [10] Their second-placing allowed them to host their semi-final at Lancaster Park, where they won the match 36 - 32 against the Coastal Sharks. [11]

In the final at Eden Park, the Crusaders faced the Blues, who were heavy favourites. Eden Park is the main sports ground in Auckland, New Zealand for both Rugby union during winter and Cricket in summer According to Crusaders' hooker Mark Hammett, "If we'd been polled in that week, and had to give an honest answer, most of the boys, deep down, would probably have thought that the Blues would beat us. Mark Garry Hammett (born 13 July 1972 in Christchurch) is a Rugby union coach and former New Zealand rugby union player "[12] The Crusaders were ahead 3-0 at half time, but the Blues scored first after half time to take a 10-3 lead after 53 minutes. [13] After Crusader Norm Maxwell scored a try, the game was tied 10 all. Norman Michael Clifford Maxwell (born 5 March 1976 in Rawene, New Zealand) is a New Zealand Rugby union player Then, after a penalty each, the two teams were tied 13 all with one minute of regulation time remaining. In Rugby football, the penalty is the main disciplinary sanction available to the referee to penalise players who commit deliberate infringements [14] At that moment, Andrew Mehrtens chipped the ball for James Kerr to run onto and score, giving the Crusaders a 20-13 win after the try was converted. A try is the major way of scoring points in Rugby league and Rugby union. [15] The ten points scored by Andrew Mehrtens in the final contributed to his total of 206 points for the season − a record for the Super 12. [16] Upon the Crusaders' return to Christchurch, they were given a parade through the city that drew 100,000 people. [14]

“ We're a regional selection. . . and it's important to remember that, besides Canterbury, we also represent Nelson Bays, Marlborough, Buller, West Coast, Mid-Canterbury and South Canterbury ”

— Todd Blackadder, Crusaders captain, 1998 Super 12 victory speech[17]

The 1999 season was equally successful for the Crusaders despite struggling to make the play-offs in fourth place after winning their last four round-robin matches. Todd Julian Blackadder (born September 20 1971 in Rangiora) is a former professional New Zealand Rugby union player and professional [18][19] They defeated the favoured Queensland Reds (who had finished top in the round-robin) in their semi-final to advance to the final against the Otago Highlanders (since renamed the Highlanders). The Highlanders (formerly known as Otago Highlanders) are a New Zealand Rugby union team based in Dunedin that compete in the Super 14. [19] The all-South Island final in Dunedin was promoted as "the party at Tony Brown's house" after Highlanders first five-eighths Tony Brown. The South Island is the larger of the two major islands of New Zealand, the other being the more populous North Island. Dunedin (dəˈneɪdɪn) Ōtepoti in Maori is the second-largest city in the South Island of New Zealand, and the principal city of the region of A Rugby union team is made up of 15 players eight forwards numbered from 1 to 8 and seven backs numbered from 9 to 15 Tony Eion Brown (born January 17, 1975 in Balclutha New Zealand) is a New Zealand Rugby union footballer playing mainly at [18] Again playing away from home, the Crusaders won 24-19. The decisive try of the match was scored by Crusaders winger Afato So'oalo when he chipped the ball, then out-sprinted All Blacks winger Jeff Wilson to collect the ball and score. A Rugby union team is made up of 15 players eight forwards numbered from 1 to 8 and seven backs numbered from 9 to 15 Jeffrey "Goldie" William Wilson MNZM (born October 24, 1973 in Invercargill) is a New Zealand sportsman who has represented [20][21]

Following the All Blacks' semi-final loss in the 1999 Rugby World Cup, Wayne Smith succeeded John Hart as All Blacks coach. The Rugby World Cup is the premier international Rugby union competition John Bernard Hart ONZM was a New Zealand Rugby union coach, mainly for Auckland and the All Blacks. [22] Crusaders manager Robbie Deans replaced Smith as Crusaders coach. Robert Maxwell Deans, born 4 September 1959 in Cheviot, New Zealand is the current coach of the Wallabies In Deans' first year in charge, the Crusaders won their third title in a row − a feat that has not since been repeated. [5] The Crusaders finished second in the round-robin, earning them the right to host a semi-final in which they faced the Highlanders at Jade Stadium. [23][24] Two tries in the final 20 minutes by Marika Vunibaka helped the Crusaders to a 37-15 win. Marika "Dawainavesi" Vunibaka (born 3 November, 1974) is a Fijian Rugby union [25] The 2000 Super 12 Final was played against the Brumbies in Canberra, Australia, where the weather for the final was icy, with sleet and snow. The Brumbies (formerly known as the ACT Brumbies, for sponsorship reasons referred to as CA Brumbies) are a Super 14 Rugby union team Canberra ( is the capital city of Australia With a population of over 340000 it is Australia's largest inland City. [26] The game was low-scoring, with only one try each. Four penalties by Mehrtens gave the Crusaders a 12-6 half time lead. Following a Brumbies penalty four minutes from time, the Brumbies led 19-17. [26] However, the Crusaders were awarded a penalty from the resulting kick-off, and after Mehrtens converted the penalty, the Crusaders went on to win the game 20-19. [27]

Development of a legacy: 2001 to 2005

Crusaders scrum against the Brumbies in May 2006
Crusaders scrum against the Brumbies in May 2006

After winning three consecutive Super 12 titles, the Crusaders finished tenth in 2001 — their worst finish since 1996. Scrum (an abbreviated form of scrummage, which is now rarely used in the sports of Rugby union and Rugby league, is a way of restarting the game either The season was the last for captain Todd Blackadder before he left to play for Edinburgh in Scotland. Edinburgh Rugby (formerly Edinburgh Reivers, Edinburgh Gunners) is one of two Professional Rugby union teams in Scotland competing Scotland ( Gaelic: Alba) is a Country in northwest Europethat occupies the northern third of the island of Great Britain. [28]

The Crusaders bounced back dramatically in 2002 when they went through the Super 12 season unbeaten, achieving their fourth title. Although the Crusaders won all eleven of their round-robin matches, six of them were won by a margin of seven points or less. [29][30] Their eleven round-robin games also included a record 96–19 win over the Waratahs in the final match of the round-robin stage, which was especially noteworthy given that both teams finished at the top of the table.

The Crusaders met the Highlanders in their 2002 semi-final, which they eventually won 34–23 after being ahead 18-6 at half time. The following week, they faced the Brumbies in the first final to be hosted at Jade Stadium. The Brumbies trailed 11–3 after the first half, having had only 30 per cent possession. [31] Although the Brumbies closed the gap to 14–13 with eight minutes to go, the Crusaders held on and steadied to win 31–13 with a last-minute try to Caleb Ralph. Caleb Stan Ralph (born 10 September 1977 in Rotorua) is a New Zealand Rugby union footballer [32][31] The season was their first under the captaincy of Reuben Thorne, who went on to captain the All Blacks until the end of the 2003 Rugby World Cup. Reuben David Thorne (born January 2, 1975 in Christchurch) is a New Zealand Rugby union player and former captain of the national The 2003 Rugby World Cup was the fifth Rugby union world cup and was won by England.

The Crusaders' winning run finally came to an end when they were beaten 39–5 by the Blues in the third round of the 2003 Super 12 season. [33] Although their 15-match unbeaten streak had ended, Richie McCaw said of the loss, ". . . in some ways it was almost a relief. We'd finally been beaten, the run was over, so people could stop talking about it and we could get on with playing it week by week. "[34] The Crusaders recovered to finish second on the table with eight wins. [35] They hosted a semi-final against the Hurricanes, who were coached by Colin Cooper, a former assistant coach for the Crusaders. Despite this inside knowledge of the team by the Wellington coach, the Crusaders won the match 39–16. [35] In the final, the Crusaders met the Blues, another team coached by a former Crusaders assistant coach, Peter Sloane. Hooker Mark Hammett scored two tries to give the Crusaders a 10–6 lead at half-time. Mark Garry Hammett (born 13 July 1972 in Christchurch) is a Rugby union coach and former New Zealand rugby union player [36] The Blues hit back to lead 21–10 with ten minutes to go. The Crusaders managed another converted try, but it was not enough, and the Blues won 21–17. [36]

The Crusaders' 2004 season began with two losses: first to the Waratahs, then to the Blues. [37] They recovered to again finish second on the table with seven wins. [38] They played the Stormers at Jade Stadium in their semi-final, and won 27-16. [38] They met the Brumbies at Canberra Stadium in a replay of the 2000 final. Canberra Stadium (originally known as Bruce Stadium) is a facility primarily used for Rugby league and Rugby union games located adjacent to the The Brumbies dominated in the final, scoring 33 unanswered points in the first 19 minutes. [39] The Crusaders managed to salvage some pride by narrowing the loss to a 47–38 finish. [38]

The 2005 season started with a repeat of the previous year’s final: a Brumbies victory over the Crusaders in Canberra. [40] There was a win the following week at home over the Chiefs, followed by a win over the Reds at Trafalgar Park. The Chiefs (formerly known as the Waikato Chiefs) are a professional Rugby union team based in Hamilton New Zealand. Trafalgar Park is a large sports ground within the heart of the city of Nelson, in New Zealand 's South Island. [41] Although there was a 35–20 loss to the Bulls after Crusaders captain Richie McCaw was knocked unconscious, they eventually finished the regular season top of the table. [42][43] McCaw returned from his five weeks on the sideline to lead the Crusaders in their semifinal victory over the Hurricanes. [42][43] They faced the Waratahs in the final at Jade Stadium. Leading 14–6 at halftime, the Crusaders then moved out to a 29-point lead. [44] Despite three late tries by the Waratahs, the Crusaders won their fifth title with a 35–20 win. [44][45]

As a reward for their seventh finals appearance and fifth title, the Crusaders were allowed to keep the Super 12 trophy. [46] After the 2005 season, the franchise saw the departure of stalwarts Andrew Mehrtens and Justin Marshall, both of whom had played for the team since its formation in 1996. Andrew Philip Mehrtens MNZM (born 28 April 1973 in Durban, South Africa) is a Justin Warren Marshall, MNZM (born 5 August 1973) is a New Zealand Rugby union footballer

New era: 2006 to present

Further information: 2006 Super 14 season, 2006 Super 14 Final
The Crusaders playing the Bulls in 2006.
The Crusaders playing the Bulls in 2006. The 2006 Super 14 season started on Friday February 10 2006. The Grand Final was held on Saturday May 27 Road to the Final See also 2006 Super 14 season Pre-game The game was expected to be centred around the defence of both sides

In 2006, the Super 12 expanded to form the Super 14 when the Western Force from Perth, Australia, and the Central Cheetahs from the Free State and Northern Cape Provinces, South Africa joined the competition. Western Force is a Rugby union team based in Perth, Western Australia playing in the international Super 14 competition Perth is the capital and largest city of the Australian state of Western Australia. For a topic outline on this subject see List of basic Australia topics. The Central Cheetahs, known for sponsorship reasons as Vodacom Cheetahs, is a South African Super 14 rugby union franchise that entered the competition History See also Orange Free State Geography The Free State is situated on flat boundless plains in the heart of South Africa The Northern Cape is a large sparsely populated province of South Africa, created in 1994 when the Cape Province was split up The Republic of South Africa (also known by other official names) is a country located at the southern tip of the continent of Africa An unbeaten run of sixteen matches was nearly halted when the Crusaders drew with the Western Force in Perth in round eleven. [47] The following week, the unbeaten run was ended when the Crusaders lost to the Stormers in Cape Town. [48] That loss was their only one of the year, as they finished top of the table with eleven wins. [49] After beating the Bulls in their semi-final, the Crusaders faced the Hurricanes in the final at Jade Stadium that was played in a thick fog, causing poor visibility. [50] Sections of the crowd could not see the field, and many spectators left during the match. [50] The scorers were tied 9-9 going into the game’s last 20 minutes. The Crusaders' Casey Laulala then scored the game’s only try before the match finished 19-12. [50]

In the 2007 Super 14 season, seven Crusaders players missed the first seven rounds of the competition to participate in an All Black "conditioning programme". The 2007 Super 14 season started in February 2007 with preseason matches held from mid-January [51] The conditioning programme was part of the All Blacks' 2007 Rugby World Cup preparations; 22 players were selected for the programme. The 2007 Rugby World Cup was the sixth Rugby World Cup, a quadrennial international Rugby union world championship inaugurated in 1987. The Crusaders' seven players in the programme was more than any other New Zealand Super 14 franchise. The Crusaders players were Chris Jack, Richie McCaw, Greg Somerville, Reuben Thorne, Dan Carter, Leon MacDonald, and Aaron Mauger. Christopher Raymond Jack (born 5 September 1978 in Christchurch) is a New Zealand Rugby union footballer who plays as a for Aaron Joseph Douglas Mauger (last name pronounced "Major" born 29 November 1980 in Christchurch) is a Rugby union footballer [51][52][53] All but one of the seven returned to play for the Crusaders in their eighth round match against the Stormers (Greg Somerville did not return due to injury). [54] The Crusaders climbed to second on the table before defeating the Western Force 53-0 at Jade Stadium in the tenth round. Western Force is a Rugby union team based in Perth, Western Australia playing in the international Super 14 competition [55] The victory over the Force was the one hundredth Super rugby win for the Crusaders - the first franchise to reach the milestone. [55][56]

The Crusaders were top of the table going into the last round of the Super 14 before the play-offs. In order to guarantee a home semi-final they needed to defeat the Chiefs at Jade Stadium. The Chiefs won 30-24 - and ended the Crusaders 26 game winning streak at home. [57] As the Bulls defeated the Reds 92-3 in the same round, they overtook the Crusaders to finish second in the round robin. [58] The Crusaders then traveled to Pretoria to face the Bulls in their semi-final where they lost 27-12. [59]

The 2008 season was another highly successful one for the Crusaders. Finishing top of the table at the end of week 14, they comfortably defeated the Hurricanes 33-22 (although the scoreline did not reflect their dominance in the game) in the semi-final and went on to beat the Waratahs in the final 20-12. It was a fitting way to send off long-serving coach Robbie Deans as he headed to Australia to coach the Wallabies (the national rugby union team). It was also the last game for Crusaders stalwarts Caleb Ralph (a former All-Black wing, and versatile utility back player) and former captain Reuben Thorne (former All Black captain and one of the few players present in each of the Crusaders' final appearances). With much speculation about who will coach the Crusaders in 2009, there is hope among loyal fans that Deans' legacy will remain intact.

Name and colours

The Horsemen performing to the crowd before a match
The Horsemen performing to the crowd before a match

The Crusaders' name was chosen to reflect the crusading nature of Canterbury rugby. [60] A potential name was also the Plainsmen; however, this was not chosen, as "Crusaders" recalled the English heritage of the city of Christchurch. [60] Christchurch was established by English emigrants in the 19th century and is often described as the most English city outside of England. The English people (from the adjective in Englisc) are a Nation and Ethnic group native to England who predominantly speak English England is a Country which is part of the United Kingdom. Its inhabitants account for more than 83% of the total UK population whilst its mainland [61][62] The franchise adopted Canterbury's traditional sporting colours of red and black, as worn by the Canterbury provincial rugby team.

Franchise area

⊗ AMI Stadium
⊗ Alpine Energy Stadium
⊗ Trafalgar Park

The Crusaders' franchise area consists of the regions controlled by the Buller, Canterbury, Mid-Canterbury, South Canterbury, Tasman and West Coast rugby unions. AMI Stadium, formerly Jade Stadium and Lancaster Park, is a sports stadium situated in Christchurch, New Zealand. Alpine Energy Stadium is a multi-use Stadium in Timaru, New Zealand. Trafalgar Park is a large sports ground within the heart of the city of Nelson, in New Zealand 's South Island. [3] Like all New Zealand Super 14 sides, the Crusaders are able to protect 24 players from within their franchise area each season. They then must go to the draft (which consists of New Zealand-based players not protected by any of the five Super 14 franchises) to fill their squad.

Before 2006, when the domestic National Provincial Championship was reorganised, Canterbury was the only provincial union playing division one (now Air New Zealand Cup) within the Crusaders' franchise area. The National Provincial Championship, or NPC, was the predecessor to the current Air New Zealand Cup and Heartland Championship in New Zealand rugby The Air New Zealand Cup is New Zealand 's professional domestic Rugby union competition As a result, the majority of Crusaders players played for Canterbury. Today, the Crusaders' franchise area contains two Air New Zealand Cup sides — Canterbury and Tasman.

Grounds

The Crusaders' main home ground is the 36,000-capacity AMI Stadium in Christchurch, with plans being made to expand its capacity to 43,000 in time for the 2011 Rugby World Cup. The 2011 Rugby World Cup will be the seventh staging of the tournament. [63] The Crusaders usually take one game each year to another part of the franchise area, most often when the New Zealand cricket team is playing at AMI Stadium. The New Zealand cricket team, also known as the Black Caps or BLACKCAPS, played their first Test in 1929-30 against England in Christchurch [64] Previous venues have included Trafalgar Park in Nelson, and Alpine Energy Stadium in Timaru. History Early settlement Settlement of Nelson began about 1100 years ago by Māori [64][65] As part of the pre-match buildup when playing at home, Conquest of Paradise is played while several horsemen dressed as knights circle the field. 1492 Conquest of Paradise is a 1992 music score by Greek electronic composer and artist Vangelis. [66]

The Crusaders' management proposed playing a 2005 regular season match in Melbourne when Jade Stadium was unavailable. Melbourne ( is the second most populous city in Australia, with a Metropolitan area population of approximately 3 [67] Although five of the franchise's seven provincial Unions[68] supported having the regular season game in Melbourne, the New Zealand Rugby Union (NZRU) vetoed the proposal. The New Zealand Rugby Union (NZRU (formerly the New Zealand Rugby Football Union (NZRFU is the governing body of Rugby union in New Zealand. [67] In 2006, the Crusaders did play a pre-season match in Melbourne against the Western Force at Olympic Park Stadium. Olympic Park Stadium is a multi-purpose outdoor Stadium located in Olympic Boulevard in inner Melbourne. [69] They will do the same in the 2008 preseason as well, also against the Force.

Super records and achievements

The Crusaders have won five of the ten Super 12 competitions, and lost another two finals. [70] They also hosted the inaugural Super 14 final, which they won. Between 1998 and 2006, the Crusaders made the final every season except for one, in 2001. Their seven titles make them the most successful team in Super rugby history. [71]

Super 12 placings

Super 12 Results[72]
Year Played Win Draw Loss PF PA Diff BP Points Place Playoffs
1996 11 2 1 8 234 378 -144 3 13 12th
1997 11 5 1 5 272 235 37 4 26 6th
1998 11 8 0 3 340 260 80 9 41 1st (defeated Auckland Blues in final)
1999 11 7 1 3 324 262 62 3 33 1st (defeated Otago Highlanders in final)
2000 11 8 0 3 369 293 76 7 39 1st (defeated ACT Brumbies in final)
2001 11 4 0 7 307 331 -24 7 23 10th
2002 11 11 0 0 469 264 205 7 51 1st (defeated ACT Brumbies in final)
2003 11 8 0 3 358 263 95 8 40 2nd (lost final to Blues)
2004 11 7 0 4 345 303 42 6 34 2nd (lost final to ACT Brumbies)
2005 11 9 0 2 459 281 178 8 44 1st (defeated Waratahs in final)

Super 14 placings

Super 14 Results
Year Played Win Draw Loss PF PA Diff BP Points Place Playoffs
2006 13 11 1 1 412 210 202 5 51 1st (defeated Hurricanes in final)
2007 13 8 0 5 382 235 147 10 42 3rd (Lost to the Bulls in semi-final)
2008 13 11 0 2 369 176 193 8 52 1st (defeated Waratahs in final)

Competition records

Record points scorer Daniel Carter preparing to kick a conversion.
Record points scorer Daniel Carter preparing to kick a conversion. The Blues, formerly the Auckland Blues, are a professional New Zealand Rugby union franchise based in Auckland New Zealand which represents The Highlanders (formerly known as Otago Highlanders) are a New Zealand Rugby union team based in Dunedin that compete in the Super 14. The Brumbies (formerly known as the ACT Brumbies, for sponsorship reasons referred to as CA Brumbies) are a Super 14 Rugby union team The Brumbies (formerly known as the ACT Brumbies, for sponsorship reasons referred to as CA Brumbies) are a Super 14 Rugby union team The Blues, formerly the Auckland Blues, are a professional New Zealand Rugby union franchise based in Auckland New Zealand which represents The Brumbies (formerly known as the ACT Brumbies, for sponsorship reasons referred to as CA Brumbies) are a Super 14 Rugby union team The New South Wales Waratahs (referred to as HSBC Waratahs for sponsorship reasons the Waratahs or simply the ' Tahs) are an Australian The Hurricanes (formerly known as the Wellington Hurricanes) are a New Zealand Rugby Union team based in Wellington, New Zealand that The Bulls, for sponsorship reasons known as the Vodacom Bulls, are a South African Rugby union team competing in the Super 14 competition The New South Wales Waratahs (referred to as HSBC Waratahs for sponsorship reasons the Waratahs or simply the ' Tahs) are an Australian Daniel William "Dan" Carter (born 5 March 1982 in Southbridge, near Christchurch, New Zealand is a New Zealand Rugby union footballer

The Crusaders team and members of its squad hold various competition records in both the Super 12 and Super 14. The Crusaders hold the record for most points in a game, with their 96-19 victory over the Waratahs in the 12th round of the 2002 season. This game set the record for the largest winning margin (which has since been beaten), the most tries scored (14), and the most conversions in a match (13). [73] The team also has the record for most points scored in a season, with 469 scored in 2002. [72]

Several individuals have achieved competition records whilst playing for the team. Most notable are records for individual points scored in a season: Andrew Mehrtens holds the Super 12 record of 206 points, achieved in 1998;[74] while Daniel Carter holds the Super 14 record of 221 points. [75] Andrew Mehrtens also holds the record for Super points overall, with 990 accumulated during his Crusaders career. [76] Rico Gear holds the joint record for tries in a Super 12 or Super 14 season, with 15 tries in 2005. [74] In round ten of the 2007 season, the Crusaders defeated the Western Force 53-0 and in the process became the first team in Super rugby to win 100 matches. The 2007 Super 14 season started in February 2007 with preseason matches held from mid-January Western Force is a Rugby union team based in Perth, Western Australia playing in the international Super 14 competition

Players and coaches of note

2008 squad

The squad for the 2008 season:[77]

Props

Hookers

Locks

  

Loose Forwards

Half Backs

Fly Halfs

  

Centres

Wingers

Full Backs

Notable players

Main article: List of Crusaders players

Five Crusaders have played 100 games or more for the Crusaders: Leon MacDonald, Justin Marshall, Reuben Thorne, Caleb Ralph, and Greg Somerville. Wyatt Crockett is a New Zealand rugby player who plays for the Crusaders in the super 14 Ben Franks born 27 March, 1984 in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia is a Rugby union player for the Crusaders in Campbell Richard Johnstone (born 7 January 1980 in Waipukarau, New Zealand) is a Rugby union player who plays for Canterbury Greg Mardon Somerville is a New Zealand Rugby union player Somerville is currently in the New Zealand national side the All Blacks and is a front rower Corey Flynn (born 5 January, 1981 in Invercargill) is a New Zealand Rugby union player who plays in the position of hooker Ti’i Paulo born 13 January 1983 is a Rugby union player for the Crusaders in the Super 14 competition Ross Ami Filipo (born 14 April 1979 in Lower Hutt, New Zealand) is a professional Rugby union footballer Michael Paterson born 9 May, 1985 is a Rugby union player for the Crusaders in the Super 14 competition Bradley Carnegie Thorn (born 3 February 1975 in Mosgiel New Zealand) is a professional Rugby union footballer and former Australian Alexander James "Ali" Williams (born 30 April 1981 in Auckland) is a New Zealand Rugby union footballer who plays at Nasi manu is a professional rugby union player He is currently a member of the Crusaders Super 14 team Richard Hugh "Richie" McCaw (born 31 December 1980 in Kurow, Oamaru) is a New Zealand Rugby union player Kieran Read born 26 October, 1985 is a Rugby union player for the Crusaders in the Super 14 competition Reuben David Thorne (born January 2, 1975 in Christchurch) is a New Zealand Rugby union player and former captain of the national Mose Tuiali'i (born 25 March 1981 in Auckland, New Zealand) is a Rugby union player who plays for Canterbury in the George Whitelock born 30 March, 1986 is a Rugby union player for the Crusaders in the Super 14 competition Andrew "Andy" Ellis (born 1984 is a New Zealand Rugby union player who specializes in the position of half-back which is also known as scrum-half Kahn Fotuali’i, born 22 May, 1982, is a New Zealand Rugby union player for the Crusaders in the Super 14 competition Stephen Brett (born 23 November 1985 in Waiouru, New Zealand) is a Rugby union footballer who plays for Canterbury Daniel William "Dan" Carter (born 5 March 1982 in Southbridge, near Christchurch, New Zealand is a New Zealand Rugby union footballer Tim Bateman born 3 June, 1987 is a Rugby union player for the Crusaders in the Super 14 competition Hamish Gard born 21 June, 1985 is a Rugby union player for the Crusaders in the Super 14 competition Scott Elliot Hamilton (born March 4, 1980 in Christchurch, New Zealand) is a New Zealand Rugby union footballer Sean Maitland born 14 September, 1988 is a Rugby union player for the Crusaders in the Super 14 competition Kade Poki is a New Zealand Rugby Union player that plays provincial rugby for Tasman, and is in the Super 14 team the Crusaders Caleb Stan Ralph (born 10 September 1977 in Rotorua) is a New Zealand Rugby union footballer Leon Raymond MacDonald (born 21 December 1977 in Blenheim) is a New Zealand Rugby union footballer This is a list of rugby union footballers who have played for the Crusaders in Super Rugby. Half-back Justin Marshall was the first player to achieve the feat, playing for the Crusaders between 1996 and 2005. [79] Both Thorne and Ralph achieved the 100 game mark at the same time; however, Ralph had played nine of his matches for other franchises: three for the Chiefs and six for the Blues. [80][81] Ralph achieved the "100 Crusaders games" feat later that season; remarkably, they were played consecutively. [82] Greg Somerville became the latest player to contribute 100 games for the franchise, achieving this in the 2006 semi-final against the Bulls. [83] The first match of the 2008 season was Leon MacDonald's 100th game for the Crusaders. [84] The Crusaders also boast two winners of the IRB International Player of the Year Award: Daniel Carter (2005) and Richie McCaw (2006). IRB Player of the Year is an accolade awarded annually by the International Rugby Board. [85]

Team of the decade

On the eve of the last Super 12 final in 2005, a panel of experts picked the Crusaders team of the decade, which was published by the Christchurch Press. The experts chosen to select the team were: Tane Norton (former All Blacks captain), Vance Stewart (first Crusaders coach), Dick Tayler (president of supporters club), Bob Schumacher (former Christchurch Press rugby writer) and Tony Smith (Christchurch Press rugby writer). Rangitane Will "Tane" Norton MNZM (born 30 March 1942 in Waikari, Canterbury) is a New Zealand Rugby [86]

The most notable omissions from the team were Daniel Carter, Richard Loe, and Reuben Thorne. [86] Daniel Carter was omitted due to the strength of Andrew Mehrtens and Aaron Mauger who occupied the first and second five-eighth positions respectively, and because he was regarded as "the star of the next decade". A Rugby union team is made up of 15 players eight forwards numbered from 1 to 8 and seven backs numbered from 9 to 15 A Rugby union team is made up of 15 players eight forwards numbered from 1 to 8 and seven backs numbered from 9 to 15 Despite being considered one of Canterbury's best ever props, Richard Loe missed out as he was only in the team for the unsuccessful 1996 season. [86] The former All Black captain Reuben Thorne was omitted due the quality of players in the lock and blindside flanker positions. A Rugby union team is made up of 15 players eight forwards numbered from 1 to 8 and seven backs numbered from 9 to 15 A Rugby union team is made up of 15 players eight forwards numbered from 1 to 8 and seven backs numbered from 9 to 15 The most unlikely inclusion was for Norm Berryman at right wing. Norman Rangi Berryman (born 15 April 1973 in Wellington) is a New Zealand Rugby A Rugby union team is made up of 15 players eight forwards numbered from 1 to 8 and seven backs numbered from 9 to 15 [86] Berryman was picked over Marika Vunibaka and Afato So'oalo due to his crucial tries late in the 1998 and 1999 seasons that helped the Crusaders qualify for the semi-finals. [86] The team:

Crusaders Super 12 Team of the Decade
Number Name Position
15 Leon MacDonald Fullback
14 Norm Berryman Right-wing
13 Daryl Gibson Centre
12 Aaron Mauger Second five eighth
11 Caleb Ralph Left wing
10 Andrew Mehrtens First five eighth
9 Justin Marshall Half-back
8 Scott Robertson Number eight
7 Richie McCaw Openside flanker
6 Todd Blackadder (Captain) Blindside flanker
5 Norm Maxwell Lock
4 Chris Jack Lock
3 Greg Somerville Tighthead prop
2 Mark Hammett Hooker
1 Greg Feek Loosehead prop

Coaches

The Crusaders were coached in their first season by Vance Stewart, who was assisted by Aussie McLean. Leon Raymond MacDonald (born 21 December 1977 in Blenheim) is a New Zealand Rugby union footballer A Rugby union team is made up of 15 players eight forwards numbered from 1 to 8 and seven backs numbered from 9 to 15 Norman Rangi Berryman (born 15 April 1973 in Wellington) is a New Zealand Rugby A Rugby union team is made up of 15 players eight forwards numbered from 1 to 8 and seven backs numbered from 9 to 15 Daryl Peter Earl Gibson (born 2 March 1975) is a New Zealand rugby union footballer who plays inside centre three-quarter back for Glasgow Warriors A Rugby union team is made up of 15 players eight forwards numbered from 1 to 8 and seven backs numbered from 9 to 15 Aaron Joseph Douglas Mauger (last name pronounced "Major" born 29 November 1980 in Christchurch) is a Rugby union footballer A Rugby union team is made up of 15 players eight forwards numbered from 1 to 8 and seven backs numbered from 9 to 15 Caleb Stan Ralph (born 10 September 1977 in Rotorua) is a New Zealand Rugby union footballer A Rugby union team is made up of 15 players eight forwards numbered from 1 to 8 and seven backs numbered from 9 to 15 Andrew Philip Mehrtens MNZM (born 28 April 1973 in Durban, South Africa) is a A Rugby union team is made up of 15 players eight forwards numbered from 1 to 8 and seven backs numbered from 9 to 15 Justin Warren Marshall, MNZM (born 5 August 1973) is a New Zealand Rugby union footballer A Rugby union team is made up of 15 players eight forwards numbered from 1 to 8 and seven backs numbered from 9 to 15 Scott Robertson (born 21 August 1974) is a Rugby union footballer who plays Flanker for Perpignan. A Rugby union team is made up of 15 players eight forwards numbered from 1 to 8 and seven backs numbered from 9 to 15 Richard Hugh "Richie" McCaw (born 31 December 1980 in Kurow, Oamaru) is a New Zealand Rugby union player A Rugby union team is made up of 15 players eight forwards numbered from 1 to 8 and seven backs numbered from 9 to 15 Todd Julian Blackadder (born September 20 1971 in Rangiora) is a former professional New Zealand Rugby union player and professional A Rugby union team is made up of 15 players eight forwards numbered from 1 to 8 and seven backs numbered from 9 to 15 Norman Michael Clifford Maxwell (born 5 March 1976 in Rawene, New Zealand) is a New Zealand Rugby union player A Rugby union team is made up of 15 players eight forwards numbered from 1 to 8 and seven backs numbered from 9 to 15 Christopher Raymond Jack (born 5 September 1978 in Christchurch) is a New Zealand Rugby union footballer who plays as a for A Rugby union team is made up of 15 players eight forwards numbered from 1 to 8 and seven backs numbered from 9 to 15 Greg Mardon Somerville is a New Zealand Rugby union player Somerville is currently in the New Zealand national side the All Blacks and is a front rower A Rugby union team is made up of 15 players eight forwards numbered from 1 to 8 and seven backs numbered from 9 to 15 Mark Garry Hammett (born 13 July 1972 in Christchurch) is a Rugby union coach and former New Zealand rugby union player A Rugby union team is made up of 15 players eight forwards numbered from 1 to 8 and seven backs numbered from 9 to 15 Gregory Edward Feek (born 20 July 1975 in New Plymouth) is a New Zealand Rugby union player who has played 10 tests for the A Rugby union team is made up of 15 players eight forwards numbered from 1 to 8 and seven backs numbered from 9 to 15 [5] Stewart was replaced by Wayne Smith in 1997; McLean too was replaced, by Peter Sloane. Smith continued as coach until he was appointed All Blacks coach after the 1999 season. Robbie Deans took over the reins for the 2000 season, and has been in charge ever since. Deans has had several assistants: in 2000 and 2001 his assistant was Steve Hansen; in 2002, Colin Cooper; in 2003 and 2004, Don Hayes; and in 2005 and 2006, Vern Cotter. Steve Hansen is a Rugby union coach He was the head coach of the Welsh national team. [5] Deans' assistant for the 2007 season was former Crusader Mark Hammett. [87]

Notes

  1. ^ Development Timetable. jadestadium. co. nz. Retrieved on 22 September 2006. Events 66 - Emperor Nero creates the Legion I Italica. 1236 - The Lithuanians Year 2006 ( MMVI) was a Common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar.
  2. ^ Corey Flynn will captain the Crusaders for the first seven rounds of the 2007 Super 14. Corey Flynn (born 5 January, 1981 in Invercargill) is a New Zealand Rugby union player who plays in the position of hooker
  3. ^ a b McIlraith (2005), pg 320.
  4. ^ The Marlborough and Nelson Bays unions have since amalgamated to form the Tasman Rugby Union. The Tasman Rugby Union is New Zealand's newest provincial union
  5. ^ a b c d e McIlraith (2005), pg 321.
  6. ^ McIlraith (2005), pg 235.
  7. ^ Gifford (2004), p. 151
  8. ^ a b McIlraith (2005), p. 243
  9. ^ a b Gifford (2004), p. 159
  10. ^ Gifford (2004), pg 169.
  11. ^ McIlraith (2005), pg 252.
  12. ^ McIlraith (2005), pg 84.
  13. ^ Gifford (2004), pg 171.
  14. ^ a b Gifford (2004), pg 172.
  15. ^ McIlraith (2005), pg 85.
  16. ^ McIlraith (2005, pg 335.
  17. ^ Howitt (2005), pg 61
  18. ^ a b Gifford (2004), pg 174.
  19. ^ a b McIlraith (2005), pg 260.
  20. ^ Gifford (2004), pg 175.
  21. ^ McIlraith (2005), pg 106.
  22. ^ Palenski (2003), pg 242.
  23. ^ McIlraith (2005), pg 268.
  24. ^ McIlraith (2005), pg 269.
  25. ^ McIlraith (2005), pg 124.
  26. ^ a b Gifford (2004), pg 179.
  27. ^ McIlraith (2005), pg 125.
  28. ^ Before leaving for Scotland, Blackadder led the Canterbury NPC team to victory in the 2002 National Provincial Championship. The Canterbury Rugby Football Union' (CRFU is the official governing body for Rugby union in a substantial part of the Canterbury region of New
  29. ^ Seven points is significant because it is the value of a converted try
  30. ^ McIlraith (2006), p. 164
  31. ^ a b Gifford (2004), p. 189
  32. ^ McIlraith (2006), p. 165
  33. ^ McIlraith (2005), p. 288.
  34. ^ McIlraith (2005), pg. 170.
  35. ^ a b McIlraith (2005), pg. 294.
  36. ^ a b McIlraith (2005), pg. 186.
  37. ^ McIlraith (2005), p. 191
  38. ^ a b c McIlraith (2005), p. 302.
  39. ^ McIlraith (2005), p. 188
  40. ^ McIlraith (2005), pg 303.
  41. ^ McIlraith (2005), pg 305.
  42. ^ a b McIlraith (2005), pg 203.
  43. ^ a b McIlraith (2005), p. 310
  44. ^ a b McIlraith (2005), p. 205
  45. ^ McIlraith (2005), p. 311
  46. ^ The Moments that Mattered – The Building of the Crusaders’ Dynasty. Retrieved on 2007-01-10. Year 2007 ( MMVII) was a Common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century. Events 49 BC - Julius Caesar crosses the Rubicon, signaling the start of civil war.
  47. ^ Vannisselroy, Brenton. "Super 14 round 11 review", tvnz. co. nz, 2006-04-24. Year 2006 ( MMVI) was a Common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. Events 1479 BC - Thutmose III ascends to the throne of Egypt, although power effectively shifts to Hatshepsut (according to Retrieved on 2007-01-29. Year 2007 ( MMVII) was a Common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century. Events 904 - Sergius III comes out of retirement to take over the papacy from the deposed Antipope Christopher.  
  48. ^ 2006 Super 14 Tournament. Retrieved on 2007-01-29. Year 2007 ( MMVII) was a Common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century. Events 904 - Sergius III comes out of retirement to take over the papacy from the deposed Antipope Christopher.
  49. ^ 2006 Super 14 Table. Retrieved on 2007-01-29. Year 2007 ( MMVII) was a Common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century. Events 904 - Sergius III comes out of retirement to take over the papacy from the deposed Antipope Christopher.
  50. ^ a b c "Crusaders shine through the fog to claim title", 2006-05-27. Year 2006 ( MMVI) was a Common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. Events 927 - Simeon the Great, Tsar of Bulgaria, dies 1120 - Richard III of Capua is anointed Retrieved on 2007-01-29. Year 2007 ( MMVII) was a Common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century. Events 904 - Sergius III comes out of retirement to take over the papacy from the deposed Antipope Christopher.  
  51. ^ a b "All Blacks pulled out of the Super 14", planet-rugby. com, 2006-08-20. Year 2006 ( MMVI) was a Common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. Events 636 - Battle of Yarmouk: Arab forces led by Khalid ibn al-Walid take control of Syria and Palestine Retrieved on 2007-01-24. Year 2007 ( MMVII) was a Common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century. Events 41 - Gaius Caesar (Caligula, known for his eccentricity and cruel Despotism, is Assassinated by his disgruntled  
  52. ^ "Henry reveals his 'World Cup team'", planet-rugby. com, 2006-09-11. Year 2006 ( MMVI) was a Common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. Events 9 - The Battle of the Teutoburg Forest ends 506 - The Bishops of Visigothic Gaul Retrieved on 2007-01-24. Year 2007 ( MMVII) was a Common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century. Events 41 - Gaius Caesar (Caligula, known for his eccentricity and cruel Despotism, is Assassinated by his disgruntled  
  53. ^ Leggat, David. "Getting the balance in Super 14", nzherald. co. nz, 2006-09-22. Year 2006 ( MMVI) was a Common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. Events 66 - Emperor Nero creates the Legion I Italica. 1236 - The Lithuanians Retrieved on 2006-09-24. Year 2006 ( MMVI) was a Common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. Events 622 - Prophet Muhammad completes his hegira from Mecca to Medina.  
  54. ^ "Reconditioning All Blacks to face Stormers", rugbyworld. com, 2007-03-20. Year 2007 ( MMVII) was a Common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century. Events 1600 - The Linköping Bloodbath takes place on Maundy Thursday in Linköping, Sweden. Retrieved on 2007-04-08. Year 2007 ( MMVII) was a Common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century. Events 217 - Roman Emperor Caracalla is Assassinated (and succeeded by his Praetorian  
  55. ^ a b "Crusaders crush Force 53-0 in Super 14", thewest. com. au, 2007-04-07. Year 2007 ( MMVII) was a Common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century. Events 529 - First draft of Corpus Juris Civilis (a fundamental work in Jurisprudence) is issued by Eastern Roman Emperor Retrieved on 2007-04-08. Year 2007 ( MMVII) was a Common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century. Events 217 - Roman Emperor Caracalla is Assassinated (and succeeded by his Praetorian  
  56. ^ It was also the Crusaders' first victory over the Force - they drew in 2006.
  57. ^ Webster, Tim. "Chiefs upset Crusaders", sportal. com. au, 2007-05-04. Year 2007 ( MMVII) was a Common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century. Events 1256 - The Augustinian monastic order is constituted at the Lecceto Monastery when Pope Alexander IV Retrieved on 2007-06-01. Year 2007 ( MMVII) was a Common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century. Events 193 - Roman Emperor Didius Julianus is Assassinated 987 - Hugh Capet is elected  
  58. ^ "Rugby: Sharks, Bulls snatch top two spots", herald. co. nz, 2007-05-06. Year 2007 ( MMVII) was a Common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century. Events 1527 - Spanish and German troops sack Rome; some consider this the end of the Renaissance. Retrieved on 2007-06-22. Year 2007 ( MMVII) was a Common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century. Events 217 BC - Battle of Raphia: Ptolemy IV of Egypt defeats Antiochus III the Great of the Seleucid kingdom.  
  59. ^ "Bulls, Sharks set up all South African final", herald. co. nz, 2007-05-13. Year 2007 ( MMVII) was a Common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century. Events 1497 - Pope Alexander VI excommunicates Girolamo Savonarola. Retrieved on 2007-06-22. Year 2007 ( MMVII) was a Common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century. Events 217 BC - Battle of Raphia: Ptolemy IV of Egypt defeats Antiochus III the Great of the Seleucid kingdom.  
  60. ^ a b What's in a name. crfu. co. nz. Retrieved on 2007-01-10. Year 2007 ( MMVII) was a Common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century. Events 49 BC - Julius Caesar crosses the Rubicon, signaling the start of civil war.
  61. ^ New Zealand: Christchurch - the garden city. goway. com. Retrieved on 2006-09-22. Year 2006 ( MMVI) was a Common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. Events 66 - Emperor Nero creates the Legion I Italica. 1236 - The Lithuanians
  62. ^ Canterbury - New Zealand. christchurchcvb. com. Retrieved on 2006-09-22. Year 2006 ( MMVI) was a Common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. Events 66 - Emperor Nero creates the Legion I Italica. 1236 - The Lithuanians
  63. ^ Jade Stadium Christchurch - the full circle. jadestadium. co. nz. Retrieved on 2006-10-12. Year 2006 ( MMVI) was a Common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. Events 539 BC - The army of Cyrus the Great of Persia takes Babylon.
  64. ^ a b Lammers, Coen. "Timaru gets Crusaders game", The Press (Christchurch), 2005-10-06, pp. Year 2005 ( MMV) was a Common year starting on Saturday (link displays full calendar of the Gregorian calendar. Events 105 BC - Battle of Arausio: The Cimbri inflict the heaviest defeat on the Roman army of Gnaeus Mallius Maximus  D10.  
  65. ^ Knowler, Richard. "Bigger is not always better", The Press (Christchurch), 2005-03-14, pp. Year 2005 ( MMV) was a Common year starting on Saturday (link displays full calendar of the Gregorian calendar. Events 1489 - The Queen of Cyprus, Catherine Cornaro, sells her kingdom to Venice.  F2.  
  66. ^ McIlraith (2005), pg 42–43.
  67. ^ a b "Melbourne switch off for double-booked Crusaders", abc. net. au, 2004-11-05. "MMIV" redirects here For the Modest Mouse album see " Baron von Bullshit Rides Again " Events 1499 - Publication of the Catholicon in Treguier ( Brittany) Retrieved on 2006-10-26. Year 2006 ( MMVI) was a Common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. Events 740 - An Earthquake strikes Constantinople, causing much damage and death  
  68. ^ The Marlborough and Nelson Bays rugby unions had not yet merged.
  69. ^ "Mauger slams Melbourne move", keo. co. za, 2006-02-21. Year 2006 ( MMVI) was a Common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. Events 362 - Athanasius returns to Alexandria. 1245 - Thomas, the first known Bishop of Finland Retrieved on 2006-10-15. Year 2006 ( MMVI) was a Common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. Events 533 - Byzantine General Belisarius makes his formal entry into Carthage, having conquered it from the  
  70. ^ "Crusaders take the crown", iafrica. com, 2006-05-27. Year 2006 ( MMVI) was a Common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. Events 927 - Simeon the Great, Tsar of Bulgaria, dies 1120 - Richard III of Capua is anointed Retrieved on 2007-02-23. Year 2007 ( MMVII) was a Common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century. Events 1455 - Traditional date for the publication of the Gutenberg Bible, the first Western Book printed from Movable  
  71. ^ "CRUSADERS", planetrugby. com, 2007-01-30. Year 2007 ( MMVII) was a Common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century. Events 1648 - Eighty Years' War: The Treaty of Münster is signed ending the conflict between the Netherlands and Spain Retrieved on 2007-02-23. Year 2007 ( MMVII) was a Common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century. Events 1455 - Traditional date for the publication of the Gutenberg Bible, the first Western Book printed from Movable  
  72. ^ a b Super 14 Tables. Lassen Creative Technologies Ltd. Retrieved on 2006-05-08. Year 2006 ( MMVI) was a Common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. Events 589 - Reccared summons the Third Council of Toledo 1450 - Jack Cade's Rebellion: Kentishmen
  73. ^ Howitt (2005), pg 113
  74. ^ a b Howitt (2005), pg 165
  75. ^ Dan Carter. allblacks. com. Retrieved on 2006-09-22. Year 2006 ( MMVI) was a Common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. Events 66 - Emperor Nero creates the Legion I Italica. 1236 - The Lithuanians
  76. ^ Howitt (2005), pg 166
  77. ^ "2008 Super 14 squads announced", nzherald. co. nz, 2007-10-31. Year 2007 ( MMVII) was a Common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century. Events 445 BC – Ezra reads the Book of the Law to the Israelites in Jerusalem (see Nehemiah 91 NLTse Retrieved on 2007-10-31. Year 2007 ( MMVII) was a Common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century. Events 445 BC – Ezra reads the Book of the Law to the Israelites in Jerusalem (see Nehemiah 91 NLTse  
  78. ^ Was named in squad but will be unavailable due to injury
  79. ^ Justin Marshall. allblacks. com. Retrieved on 2006-10-12. Year 2006 ( MMVI) was a Common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. Events 539 BC - The army of Cyrus the Great of Persia takes Babylon.
  80. ^ Knowler, Richard. "Reubie's 100 proves thorn in Reds' side", The Press (Christchurch), 2006-02-20, pp. Year 2006 ( MMVI) was a Common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. Events 1472 - Orkney and Shetland are left by Norway to Scotland, due to a Dowry payment  D1.  
  81. ^ Knowler, Richard. "Ever-ready Ralph set for 100th", The Press (Christchurch), 2006-02-26, pp. Year 2006 ( MMVI) was a Common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. Events 747 BC - Epoch (origin of Ptolemy 's Nabonassar Era 364 - Valentinian I is proclaimed  D7.  
  82. ^ Knowler, Richard. "Thorne fires up", The Press (Christchurch), 2006-04-21, pp. Year 2006 ( MMVI) was a Common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. Events 753 BC - Romulus and Remus found Rome ( traditional date)  D17.  
  83. ^ "Crusaders at full tilt", sarugby. com. Retrieved on 2006-10-12. Year 2006 ( MMVI) was a Common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. Events 539 BC - The army of Cyrus the Great of Persia takes Babylon.  
  84. ^ "Laws have little bearing as Crusaders win big", nzherald. co. nz, 2008-02-15. 2008 ( MMVIII) is the current year in accordance with the Gregorian calendar, a Leap year that started on Tuesday of the Common Events 590 - Khosrau II is crowned as king of Persia 1637 - Ferdinand III becomes Holy Roman Emperor Retrieved on 2008-02-16. 2008 ( MMVIII) is the current year in accordance with the Gregorian calendar, a Leap year that started on Tuesday of the Common Events 1249 - Andrew of Longjumeau is dispatched by Louis IX of France as his ambassador to meet with the Khan of the Mongols  
  85. ^ "McCaw named IRB Player of the Year", irb. com, 2006-11-26. Year 2006 ( MMVI) was a Common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. Events 43 BC - The Second Triumvirate alliance of Gaius Julius Caesar Octavianus ("Octavian" later "Caesar Augustus" Retrieved on 2007-01-25. Year 2007 ( MMVII) was a Common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century. Events 41 - After a night of negotiation Claudius is accepted as Roman Emperor by the Senate  
  86. ^ a b c d e "Legends of the crusade", The Press (Christchurch), 2005-05-28, pp. Year 2005 ( MMV) was a Common year starting on Saturday (link displays full calendar of the Gregorian calendar. Events 585 BC - A Solar eclipse occurs as predicted by Greek philosopher and scientist Thales, while Alyattes is battling  F8.  
  87. ^ "Super 14 assistants named", tvnz. co. nz, 2006-10-22. Year 2006 ( MMVI) was a Common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. Events 202 BC - Hannibal Barca, leader of the Carthaginians, is defeated by the Roman legions under Scipio Africanus Retrieved on 2007-01-26. Year 2007 ( MMVII) was a Common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century. Events 1340 - King Edward III of England is declared King of France.  

Print sources

External links

Preceded by
1997 - Blues
2001 - Brumbies
2004 - Brumbies		 Super 12/Super 14 Champions
1998 (first title) - 1999 (second title) - 2000 (third title)
2002 (fourth title)
2005 (fifth title) - 2006 (sixth title) 2008 (seventh title)		 Succeeded by
2001 - Brumbies
2003 - Blues
2007 - Bulls
The 1997 season of the Super 12, the international Rugby union competition was the second of its kind with the 1996 season being the first that the tournament had run The Blues, formerly the Auckland Blues, are a professional New Zealand Rugby union franchise based in Auckland New Zealand which represents The 2001 season of the Super 12, the international Rugby union competition was contested from February through to May and was won by the ACT Brumbies, who beat The Brumbies (formerly known as the ACT Brumbies, for sponsorship reasons referred to as CA Brumbies) are a Super 14 Rugby union team The Super 12 is a Rugby union competition between teams from Australia South Africa and New Zealand The Brumbies (formerly known as the ACT Brumbies, for sponsorship reasons referred to as CA Brumbies) are a Super 14 Rugby union team The Super 14 is the largest Rugby union football club championship in the Southern hemisphere, consisting of four state teams from Australia (Queensland/Reds The 1998 Super 12 season was won by New Zealand side the Canterbury Crusaders after defeating the Auckland Blues in the final The 1999 Super 12 season was won by the Crusaders who defeated the Highlanders in the final The 2000 Super 12 season was a Rugby union competition contested by teams from Australia, New Zealand and South Africa from February The 2002 Super 12 season was won by the Crusaders, who defeated the Brumbies in the 2002 Super 12 Final. The 2005 season of the Super 12 rugby union competition began on 25 February 2005 and ended on 28 May with the Canterbury-based Crusaders The 2006 Super 14 season started on Friday February 10 2006. The Grand Final was held on Saturday May 27 The 2008 Super 14 season started in February 2008 with pre-season matches held from mid-January The 2001 season of the Super 12, the international Rugby union competition was contested from February through to May and was won by the ACT Brumbies, who beat The Brumbies (formerly known as the ACT Brumbies, for sponsorship reasons referred to as CA Brumbies) are a Super 14 Rugby union team The 2003 Super 12 season was won by the Blues, who defeated the Crusaders in the final The Blues, formerly the Auckland Blues, are a professional New Zealand Rugby union franchise based in Auckland New Zealand which represents The 2007 Super 14 season started in February 2007 with preseason matches held from mid-January The Bulls, for sponsorship reasons known as the Vodacom Bulls, are a South African Rugby union team competing in the Super 14 competition
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