Analysis of information sources in references of the Wikipedia article "Crusaders (rugby union)" in English language version.
Among others in the mix of potential names were the Plainsmen but the powers that be at the time chose Crusaders [...]
When the first year of Super 12 kicked off in 1996, the Crusaders title was chosen for the side representing the provincial unions from the top half of the South Island [...] the powers that be at the time chose Crusaders based on the English nature of the city of Christchurch.
They believed the name Crusaders not only connected with Christchurch's British heritage but it defined the crusading spirit of Canterbury rugby.
Among others in the mix of potential names were the Plainsmen but the powers that be at the time chose Crusaders [...]