The Crusaders are prepared to make significant changes to the matchday experience at AMI Stadium, following the Christchurch terrorist attack, CEO Colin Mansbridge says.
After the horrifying attacks on two mosques that left 50 dead and dozens more injured, the Crusaders' have found themselves contemplating their identity as a team , with the name a reference to the Crusades of the Mediterranean that saw Muslims killed by Christians.
Speaking to Stuff, Mansbridge says that although no decision has been made as to changing the Crusaders' name, the matchday tradition of swordsmen riding horses around the stadium may not have a place anymore, starting with their clash against the Brumbies on April 6.
Sam Whitelock says they need to "give everyone space, especially the families that are affected."
"For this particular game, given it's the first game since the terrorist attack, the horses are unlikely to be there," Mansbridge said.
"It's not unequivocal yet, but they're unlikely to be there and the game will reflect the occasion."
The Crusaders are our most successful rugby franchise, epitomising the Canterbury spirit.
Mansbridge continued to detail the process of a potential name change, yet to consult the Muslim community targeted in the March 15 attacks.
"We are working hard on it. We've started early engagement with various groups and we expect within the next short period - probably a week to 10 days - to be able to communicate a more broad process."
The Sport and Recreation Minister spoke about the possibility of renaming the team.
"We want to do the right thing. To make sure that we're doing our best to do the right thing, it's probably taking more energy than we've ever expended on a game."
The Crusaders will this week face the Hurricanes in Wellington, before preparing for their first home match since the tragic events of March 15.
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