[Mike Simonds]

I've enjoyed reading the postings regarding sports in New Zealand, etc.

Here in Hawai'i we are more fortunate than most of our brothers and sisters who reside in the 48 continental states because we truly live in a multi-cultural society in the islands.

I have a wahine friend who dances for a local hula halau and they study Maori dance. Also, a childhood friend and little league baseball team-mate sailed on the famous voyaging canoe Hokule'a as it traveled between Hawai'i and Tahiti and other islands recreating the great voyages of migration in Polynesia that predate Columbus by over 500 years. One of the high schools we officiate is located on the slopes of Haleakala, where the great mythical hero Maui roped the sun and made it slow down on its journey across our skies. I believe Maui is also known among your people as well...

I did look up the Maori battalions that fought during WWI and WWII and they did rack-up a very impressive record for their small numbers. You have every right to be proud of what your people have accomplished in peacetime and during war.

However, the other blokes on this site do have a good point: this is a discussion board for American football. Therefore, I would be happy to exchange email addresses with you so we may continue this discussion at another location.

Mahalo nui loa for sharing your mana'o with us!