Rugby: Black Ferns song-and-dance routine pays dividends on the field

Obviously, teamwork has been a key to the Black Ferns' international success - but the national women's rugby team has taken that fellowship off the field with a ritual that keeps things upbeat and relaxed.

After each game and training session, the players gather in a circle for a wee dance and sing-song that doubles as an initiation ceremony for newbies.

"You just get thrown on the spot, and you pretty much just look and try to act the part," grinned Ferns veteran Selica Winiata at this week's three-day Auckland camp.  

"One of the things we do, if there's anyone new to the environment, like refs or coaches, we chuck them in the middle and they have to dance along."

"It's pretty uncomfortable for them, but that's just who we are."

Some are better than others. For those strugglers, it's just a case of not getting left too far behind.

"Man, I always muck it up," says rookie Grace Brooker. "I've got no rhythm.

"I learnt it at my first camp and just got thrown in - this is the first time I've ever done it without mucking up."

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