One New Zealand have brought a piece of Warriors history back to life, reimagining iconic anthem Matter of Faith as a celebration of the Wahs, their fans and the faith that keeps them coming back – win or lose.
First released by Vodafone in 2001, Matter of Faith became part of the soundtrack to a defining era for the club. Twenty-five years later, One NZ – and one of the Warriors’ longest-standing supporters – is bringing it back for a new generation.
The new version is performed by Coterie and accompanied by a music video filmed at Go Media Stadium, bringing together fans, former players and familiar faces from across the Warriors whānau.
Susannah Winger, Head of Brand Experience at One NZ, says the song is a fitting tribute to the belief that has always surrounded the club.
“We’ve been backing the Warriors for more than 25 years, and if there’s one thing we’ve learned, it’s that being a Warriors fan is about so much more than what happens on the scoreboard.
“Through every high and low, the fans show up, wear the colours and keep believing. We know that feeling because we’re right there with them."
“Bringing Matter of Faith back 25 years later is our way of celebrating that – the Wahs, the fans and the faith we all share in this club.”
Directed by lifelong Warriors supporter Andy Morton, the accompanying film puts the fans at the heart of the action. Coterie lead a legion of supporters through the tunnels, concourses and stands of Go Media Stadium before coming together on the pitch for a mass performance.
Faces from Warriors past and present appear alongside fans, vintage jerseys and memorabilia, including the first Warriors jersey presented at the club’s original 1995 launch.
“To be involved in celebrating the best fan base in sports is special,” says Morton. “It’s a nod to where we’ve come from, but more so, it’s a tip of the hat to those who stand ten toes deep for the club and always keep the faith.”
Twenty-five years after Matter of Faith was first released, plenty has changed. But the faith hasn’t.
Up the Wahs!