The haka is a performance unlike any other.
Traditionally known as a war cry, war dance, or challenge, the haka originated in New Zealand more than 100 years ago and it has turned into a viral sensation over the past few years thanks to New Zealand sports teams performing it ahead of international competition.
On Wednesday, New Zealand's Wheelchair Rugby team wrapped up a long day of action at the Invictus Games with a matchup against Team Canada at the Mattamy Athletic Centre. Ahead of their final game of the day, the competitors performed an incredible haka that gave the entire audience goosebumps.
This version of the haka was created specifically for the Invictus Games and was inspired by William Ernest Henley's poem Invictus.
Out of the night that covers me,
Black as the pit from pole to pole,
I thank whatever gods may be
For my unconquerable soul.
In the fell clutch of circumstance
I have not winced nor cried aloud.
Under the bludgeonings of chance
My head is bloody, but unbowed.
Beyond this place of wrath and tears
Looms but the Horror of the shade,
And yet the menace of the years
Finds and shall find me unafraid.
It matters not how strait the gate,
How charged with punishments the scroll,
I am the master of my fate,
I am the captain of my soul.
Following the game, New Zealand's Allister Baker and David Sherriff explained what goes in to making a solid haka, how long it takes to learn, and their favourite part about performing the haka.
This isn't the first time New Zealand performed a haka during the Invictus Games. Earlier this week, plenty of Kiwi supporters came together to perform a haka following a medal ceremony.
The Invictus Games are taking part all week long in Toronto and will conclude on Saturday night with a Closing Ceremony.
