CRUSADE ON, THE STORY OF THE CRUSADERS
OLLIE RITCHIE REVIEWS MATT MCILRAITH’S BOOK THAT LOOKS AT THE 25 YEARS OF THE CRUSADERS, AND THEIR MAIN SUCCESSES.
The Crusaders legacy is unrivalled, their success on the field since their inception 26 years ago is well known. But what makes the red and black machine tick? “Crusade On” pulls back the curtain on New Zealand’s most successful Super Rugby franchise and offers readers a unique insight into their success. You need to go back to the early days of the franchise to learn what they’ve achieved since then can be put down to the roots and culture that’ve been ingrained in the side since the start. The Crusaders struggled for on field success in their early stages, but in a way those struggles paved the way for the success that’s become synonymous with the franchise today. Wayne Smith’s arrival was instrumental in this, putting an emphasis on a Crusaders identity, building a culture off the field that would pave the way for success to follow on it.
“Crusade On” brings readers a glimpse at the team behind the team. Crusaders men who never donned the jersey, but have been no less instrumental in their success. Men like logistics manager John Miles and liaison man Les McFadden. Even when the team was having success, it became clear there were struggles beneath the surface. 2011 is a prime example, Christchurch was grappling with the aftermath of the February earthquake and the team had no home ground, spending the entire season on the road. One game going as far as Twickenham, London. Their decision to go there highlights the team first mentality. There was major apprehension to travel that far, when they’d already spent all year on the road. But it was best for the team, best for the franchise. So the decision was made to go. Team first.
“Crusade On” also gives readers a look at situations that weren’t alway comfortable for the side. In 2019 when a gunman killed 52 people at the Al-Noor and Linwood Mosques the team faced the difficult decision to cancel their game against the Highlanders. But much more uncomfortable conversations were to follow. The Crusaders name itself was thrust into the spotlight, with many calling it for to change in the wake of the March 15th attack on the Muslim community. “Crusade On” takes readers inside the conversations that followed inside the franchise: the debate, the unrest, and the frustration.
The Crusaders have produced some of the best rugby players this country has ever seen. Dan Carter, Richie McCaw, Kieran Read. The list goes on. But “Crusade On” shines a light on the ultimate team men. Those players who may not have played the most All
Blacks tests, but encompass everything the Crusaders are about, and everything the team stands for. Guys like Tim Bateman, Andy Ellis, Matt Todd.
Readers are taken on an in depth journey through the Crusaders story in “Crusade On”, with rare insights into what makes the team tick, and how this side from Christchurch became the most successful franchise in Super Rugby history. It’s a book for more than just Crusaders fans, rather for all rugby fans, as readers get a rare insight into the foundations that built the
Crusaders legacy.