Homegrown loyalty: How one whānau has found family in the Crusaders

22 Oct 2025

For 30 years, Crusaders games have been where generations of fans have come together, parents, kids, grandparents - to share the excitement and the red and black passion. Take A Kid to Footy celebrates that connection, giving families a valuable way to live the Crusaders experience.

For the Sherwood-Tasker family, being Crusaders fans isn’t just about rugby, it’s about tradition and creating lifelong memories together.

Based in Christchurch, Laura Sherwood and Levi Tasker are raising three rugby-mad kids: Carter (8), Mason (7) and McKenzie (4). From the moment they could walk, they’ve been wearing the red and black.

“We’re born and bred Cantabrians,” says Laura.

“Levi’s always been into rugby and league, and I’ve loved the Crusaders since I was young, even if I didn’t always understand the game, I loved the atmosphere and cheering on the team.”

That passion has only grown stronger with time. In 2025, the family officially joined the Crusaders whānau as Members – a decision they say was inspired by other rugby-loving families at the boys’ school.

“They spoke so highly of the membership programme and all the perks that came with it. Knowing how rugby mad our kids are, we were itching to sign up.”

Their first game as members was unforgettable. It was Valentine’s Day, and instead of roses, the kids were surprised with Crusaders kits and Member lanyards after school.

“I don’t know who was more excited – mum and dad or the kids!” Laura laughs.

Game days have since become a cherished family ritual. They arrive early to soak up the pre-match buzz, heading straight to the fan zone for a mandatory stop to get face paint, a play in the Kids Zone, food and drinks, and a chance to spot players warming up.

“Carter, Mason and McKenzie lay out their kits and lanyards first thing in the morning, and we always make sure to record the game just in case they make it on TV or want to rewatch the highlights.”

Each family member has their own favourite part of the match day experience, but one moment stands out above the rest: Mason running out with the team through the guard of honour as ball boy.

“It made a six-year-old boy’s biggest dream come true,” says Laura.

The family has made the most of their membership, attending exclusive kids events at Rugby Park, winning ball runner competitions, and even touring Apollo Projects Stadium to watch a captain’s run and meet the players.

“We wear our member lanyards with pride. We love the early access to extras, the member-only events, promotions, discounts and sneak peeks at new merch. And with the kids, it’s amazing to guarantee our favourite front row seats for every epic minute of rugby.

“Even after a full game, the players make time for fans whether it’s signing shirts, taking photos and chatting. Our kids are always so stoked.”

For Laura, the experience is deeply personal and makes her cherish the memories she’s now making with her own family.

“When I was little, my dad, who has since passed, would take my older brothers to home games and it was always such an exciting story when they got home. I know he would’ve loved to do that with all of us, and it’s so special to be doing it now with my own children.

“A Crusaders game is always an outing where the whole family switches off from everything else. We get to enjoy quality time together and we’ve made lifelong memories. We can’t wait for many more seasons to come.”

The Sherwood-Taskers have already locked in the new Take A Kid to Footy membership for 2026, ready for another season of unforgettable family moments.

Take A Kid to Footy offers up to 17% savings on your memberships with two great combos:

Family 2: 1 adult + 1 child
Family 4: 2 adults + 2 children

Available across Platinum, Gold, Alcohol-Free, Silver GA and One of Us memberships, it gives families the best Crusaders experiences - including collectible ‘Connect & Collect’ player cards available at every game and member event, plus an invitation to the Crusaders Kids event.