League
1News

Aussie Prime Minister's security staff thought heartfelt haka for Tuivasa-Sheck at Dally M awards was a terrorist attack - report

September 28, 2018

The NZ skipper became the first Warriors player to win the prestigious rugby league award.

It's been viewed as one of the most touching moments of the NRL season but the haka for Roger Tuivasa-Sheck after winning the Dally M Medal was also reportedly the cause of a security scare.

Warriors teammate Issac Luke began the gesture before Kiwis teammates joined in on Wednesday night but the Daily Telegraph reports security staff assigned to Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison thought he and other guests were under siege.

Morrison was on-stage presenting Tuivasa-Sheck with the medal when Luke along with Jazz Tevaga, Jordan Rapana and Jamayne Isaako performed the unscripted, impromptu sign of respect.

However, when Luke delivered the first war cry, security staff reportedly sprung into action while a floor manager dropped to the floor thinking there was a terrorist attack.

However, the fears were quickly allayed after it became apparent the four New Zealanders were performing Te Iwi Kiwi.

Tuivasa-Sheck said afterwards he was humbled by the moment.

"That's just crazy. Where I'm from back in New Zealand there is a special moment for me," Tuivasa-Sheck said.

"Back home when something happens, the haka is performed to bring up a special occasion and just to be receiving on is a big honour.

"To have Bully (Issac Luke) a close friend of mine do it for me and a close group of friends there was truly special for me."

SHARE ME

More Stories