Tongan halfback Isaiya Katoa says performing the Sipi Tau connects him with his family and heritage before a match.
"When you're doing the Sipi Tau it goes by in a bit of a blur," Katoa told the Rugby League Players Association (RLPA).
"You just get this rush of adrenaline… and it's a different type of adrenaline to from (actually playing) a game."
"It's about being proud of who you are and being proud of your family, the first person I always think about is my grandpa."
The Sipi Tau honours Tongan ancestry and culture while challenging the opposition; Samoa's Siva Tau is also expected before Sunday's game.
Katoa said the performances are rarely rehearsed in full, making the match-day energy especially intense.
"Whenever we perform the Sipi Tau and we're singing the national anthem, it's so funny because you never really practice it 100%… and then when you come to the game, you're like 120%!" he laughed.
"It's a pretty special moment, just a mad rush of adrenaline, a moment to be proud of who you are, proud of your family, but also to showcase the Sipi Tau."
Tonga meets Samoa in the final group-stage match of the 2026 Rugby League World Cup at CommBank Stadium in Parramatta on Sunday night.
Kick-off is at 8:05pm, with the Sipi Tau and Siva Tau scheduled for around 7:55pm.