Clare Curran: We're bursting with pride in the south

Highlanders fans who have been so staunchly supportive over the years are now allowed to feel really, really proud, writes Clare Curran. Photo / Mark Mitchell

I'm so happy and very emotional. We did it.

We so needed this in our city and in our region. It was a great game - both teams were evenly matched - but the Highlanders executed their moves and played brilliantly.

They deserved it - they were focused and brought it home. After watching that, I'm exhausted but exhilarated.

One of the things I love about the Highlanders is they're so no-nonsense - they don't make a big deal out of anything. And what they've shown this season is the culmination of the work and careful planning that Jamie Joseph has been putting in over the years.

Their success has been the result of a longer-term strategy and it's been done quietly, one step at a time.

In 2011, when the team were going to change their colours, I said on radio how outrageous it was and "maybe I'll bloody well wear the shirt in Parliament tomorrow".

I did and somebody from the Government complained and the Speaker threw me out because it was "un-parliamentary attire".

On Thursday I wore the shirt in Parliament again, but this time I asked the Speaker's permission. I think you've got to show your team that you'd do anything for them.

You always support the team from the region that you're in - you bloody well should anyway - and you never give up on your team. No matter where they sit you never give up on them.

Highlanders fans who have been so staunchly supportive over the years are now allowed to feel really, really proud.

• Dunedin South MP Clare Curran has long flown the Highlanders colours, including in Parliament.