Las Vegas Raiders player Tyler Manoa is set to blow the iconic Canberra Raiders Viking horn before the highly anticipated match against the New Zealand Warriors at Allegiant Stadium on March 2, 2025. This event marks not only the beginning of the season for the Raiders but also highlights the deep connection between the Raiders franchises and the celebration of Polynesian heritage.
The announcement came during the Raiders' walk-through at Allegiant Stadium on March 1, where it was confirmed Manoa, who has Samoan and Tongan descent, will participate in the pre-game festivities. Raiders CEO Don Furner expressed great enthusiasm for securing Manoa's involvement, especially after UFC boss Dana White declined the role due to earlier commitments.
“We’re really excited today. We were trying really hard to get a Las Vegas Raiders player to be our ambassador,” Furner stated. He highlighted the historical significance of the name Raiders, which originally inspired the Canberra team's identity when they entered the NSWRL back in 1982. “Of course our name came from the Raiders – the American NFL team – and we’re lucky enough to secure Tyler Manoa, who is of Polynesian heritage which makes it even more relevant,” he added.
The Raiders have worked diligently to incorporate local figures reflecting their diverse squad, which includes Maori and Pacific Islander backgrounds. With players like Matt Timoko, Joe Tapine, and Kaeo Weekes, Manoa's selection aligns perfectly with this aim. The choice of Manoa as the Viking horn blower has been well received, especially by prominent Samoan players within the Canberra team, including Josh Papali'i.
“It's very special. It's my identity as a Samoan and to see a fellow Samoan from Vegas. It's a special milestone not only for the Canberra Raiders but the Las Vegas Raiders and Samoan people in general,” Papali'i stated, showing pride not only for Manoa but also for the shared cultural heritage.
Manoa stands 6 feet 5 inches tall and weighs 142 kg, requiring the Raiders to find suitable apparel for him to wear during the event. The team is currently working to secure a jersey large enough to fit Manoa’s frame as he prepares to represent both teams and the Pasifika community. “We’ve always had a proud history of Polynesian players with our club ... so we welcome him here tomorrow to start the Viking clap, hopefully with 60,000 people,” Furner exclaimed.
The Viking horn itself is another significant element. Costing the club over $10,000, the custom-made horn was created by a firm based in Los Angeles specially for this occasion. Its size and delicate nature made it impractical to transport the original horn used during home games, so this new model has been built to serve the needs of both events at their home stadium and abroad.
Prior to Manoa's announcement, the Raiders had considered White for the role as their Viking ambassador. With this option off the table, Manoa’s selection appears to strike the right chord, showcasing the local Polynesian representation during the festivities. Furner noted the cultural significance of the event, saying, “There is a big Polynesian population playing gridiron now. I just saw Jordan Mailata (play in the Super Bowl) ... it’s great to have this connection.”
The Canberra Raiders are enthusiastic about kicking off their season amid such culturally rich festivities, aligning with the spirit of their American counterparts. After weeks of planning, the stage is set for Manoa’s ceremonial blowing of the Viking horn, marking the start of the game and celebrating the community’s shared roots.
The excitement from both the Raiders and their fans is palpable as they anticipate Manoa’s performance, symbolizing not only the competition between the two teams but also the unity and celebration of identity within the Polynesian community. The occasion will undoubtedly serve as inspiration and pride for players and supporters alike, ensuring the day is memorable for all involved.