All Blacks use the Haka to inspire London school girls to study science

The All Blacks are using their fearsome Haka to inspire young girls in the capital to study scientific subjects.

A virtual reality experience, Haka 360, which features the traditional Maori challenge performed before each match by the Rugby World Cup favourites, is being used to introduce a group of south London schoolgirls to the role of science and technology in sport.

The experience featured in a workshop for a group of 90 schoolgirls aged between 11 and 14 on the South Bank earlier this week.

Dr Tania Mathias, MP for Twickenham joined New Zealand fly-half Aaron Cruden in supporting the event hosted by AIG and Greenlight for Girls, an international organisation dedicated to encouraging young women and girls to pursue studies in Stem subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics).

Dr Mathias said: “It is incredibly important that we encourage girls to consider science as a career opportunity. The widespread use of sports science in rugby, comprising physics, technology, nutrition and ergonomics means the Rugby World Cup presents a perfect opportunity to encourage budding scientists to think about sports, and budding athletes to think about science.”

Greenlight for Girls will follow up with the recipients as part of an ongoing initiative.