The “Haka” in American Sports The Haka (definition-Ha’ meaning to breathe, Ka’ meaning fire) is being used in American sports to motivate and prepare athletes for challenges ahead. The Haka is a Polynesian war chant that is to pull strength from Ancient ancestors and family members that have passed. In ancient Polynesia, warriors would perform this chant in preparing for battle. It was believed that warriors could pull the strength from the spirits from those who died in battle. Most people recognize the Haka as traditionally performed by the New Zealand Rugby Team, the “All Blacks,” before a match begins. Young men and women who’s families have migrated to the U.S. have chosen to keep these traditions going. From football to baseball, these young athletes are using the same beliefs that their ancestors once used to not only pull strength from, but also to unify their team and prepare them mentally before a game starts. Some of the actions and movements of the Haka may seem aggressive and threatening, but these movements have meanings and tell a story of how ancient warriors overcame adversity. The Haka is not always the same as there are thousands of Polynesian Islands and each village may differ from one another. Some critics are saying that using the “Haka” in sports is highly offensive and intimidating towards the other team. It has been my own experience that this is not true. The Haka is performed for everyone in the event and done out of respect for the opponent. The Haka is used to show encouragement, loyalty, honor, and strength. 