Warriors fans have paid an emotional tribute to home town hero Sonny Fai at Mt Smart Stadium today.

The 20-year-old league star went missing, presumed drowned, after saving his younger brother at Auckland's Bethells Beach.

But three months after the tragedy, his memory only seems to be growing.

Loyalty at Mt Smart is normally shown by wearing black, but today's round four clash against the South Sydney Rabbitohs was a carnival of colour.

The early afternoon game was dedicated to the memory of Fai, but instead of sombre reflection this was a day to celebrate.

The pre-match entertainment featured cultural groups from Fai's old school, as well as performances from cousin Rosita Vai and dub rocker Tiki Taane.

Adding to the festival occasion were 5000 Samoan lei given to fans as they arrived. Memorial wristbands were also on sale.
 
"I just wanted to give people the opportunity to not only raise money for the family, but have a vehicle to process their own grief," says David Taylor, wristband organiser.

And the traditional minute's silence before the 2pm kick off was replaced by 60 seconds of applause.

The Fai phenomenon even extends to the players' jerseys, the lost Warrior's signature holding pride of place just above their hearts.

So is the much-loved player's star burning just a little too brightly? Not if you're a fan.

"It just inspires them more, especially the up-and-coming players that are coming through as well, because he would have been a brilliant player," says Robyn Porima. "He was a brilliant player."

"He deserves it," says league legend Ruben Wiki. "He deserves everything he gets today."

Wiki says the upbeat mood of the day would have been much appreciated by Fai.

"I had a lot to do with Sonny and he was a great kid. He was like a little brother to me, so he'll be watching today Mt Smart, so he'll be enjoying the event today.

A golden day for a golden hero.

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