Source: Radio New Zealand
Mark ‘the mahi man’ pictured here with Warriors skipper James Fisher-Harris, will lead the Warriors onto the field this weekend to celebrate World Down Syndrome Day. instagram
He’s the unofficial Warriors hype man, and a worthy challenger to the Mad Butcher’s title of the club’s biggest fan.
Introducing Mark ‘the Mahi Man’ Dekker.
From filling water bottles, to leading the team victory song, there is no job Dekker won’t do for the club.
But this weekend’s role stands out.
Dekker will lead out the Warriors team onto the field for their round three NRL clash against the Newcastle Knights on Saturday evening to mark World Down Syndrome Day.
It is not the the first time he has been asked to do the honour, but after a slight hitch in 2024, Dekker is ready to deliver in Newcastle.
“He jumped the gun and ran out a bit too fast ahead of the boys. Hopefully this year he’ll take his time,” said friend Leityn Swann.
Dekker was introduced to the Warriors after Swann emailed and asked if he could attend a training.
Although it was supposed to end after a few trainings, the cub quickly fell in love with the Mahi Man.
Dekker is always on hand to offer high-fives to players before and after training, as well as cater to needs from hydration, to a chat on the mats during stretching sessions.
Halfback Tannah Boyd said Dekker is the “energiser” of the club.
“He’s amazing, he waits for us when we come out every day to train, he gets us fired up, he has a big role this weekend and he’s pumped for it.”
Former Warriors star Shaun Johnson greets Mark Dekker ahead of the Warriors first game back at Mount Smart in June 2022. Andrew Cornaga / www.photosport.nz
Swann said Dekker’s duties are wide ranging.
“He’s filling the waters and ice in the morning, setting up the field, getting all the equipment in the field ready for the coaches to come and lay the safety fields. And then I think he’s head of morale boosting.”
Swann said the Mahi Man had a special connection with players.
“Some of them are very patient and sit down and listen, they’ve got banter, I wish people could see what I get to see every day, the love and time he gets from them. He gets a sense of fulfilment with what he does.”
Dekker said it’s a special moment to be in the spotlight.
“I love my club.”
He said he is already preparing for the party when the Warriors win the 2026 grand final.
“Up the Wahs, baby!”
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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand
