The Gamushara Oendan are a group of Japanese performers who don their own black uniforms and rev up the crowd with infectious cheers in a traditional Japanese style.
The group were the winners of an All Blacks fan competition ahead of the Bledisloe Cup match in Tokyo last year.
Oendan can usually be found in high schools, colleges and universities. The group has been together for three and a half years. Group leader Takahiro Muto said most oendan cheer on their school, "but we want to cheer on the whole world."
Oendan sport teams are much like cheer leading squads in the United States, but instead of acrobatics, focus more on making a lot of noise with taiko drums, blowing horns and plastic megaphones, and waving flags and banners.
Members wear happi (Japanese straight-sleeved coats) and hachimaki (headbands) emblazoned with logos, catch cries, or the name of their favorite players.
Muto has been an All Blacks fan since childhood, and said he was inspired by their talent and confidence.
"I always wear All Blacks shirts–I can feel nervous or chicken, but when I put on my All Blacks shirt I feel confident because they believe in themselves."[youtube]UCNlr6vSvxw[/youtube]
The group already performed at an All Blacks training session this week, and will rev up the fans during tonight's Rugby Rd. parade.
Muto said the group is enjoying the New Zealand atmosphere and is confident the All Blacks will take home the trophy tonight.
