Flying Fijians head coach Mick Byrne has taken on a facilitator role, emphasizing collaboration over authority in his approach. In a recent episode of the Maul or Nothing podcast, Byrne reflected on the success of last year’s Rugby World Cup and his intention to maintain and enhance the strategies that worked for the team.
Byrne stated, “I’m not going to stamp my authority or my way in the group like what some other coaches do.” He stressed the importance of understanding his players, asking, “What is going to suit this group of players?” He believes that by focusing on skillset training, he can better assess their capabilities and encourage improvement.
He noted that great players thrive on challenges as they inspire them to develop in areas where they may struggle, continually seeking ways to improve. “As a facilitator, I aim to bring out the best in our players,” Byrne said, acknowledging that Fijians appreciate an environment that fosters their spirits rather than constricts them.
Byrne addressed the complexities faced during the recent England tour, where securing player releases from clubs posed a challenge. He remarked, “It was all new to me,” having spent 17 years coaching in Australia and New Zealand without this issue. He plans to establish better relationships with the clubs moving forward.
In the upcoming Pacific Nations Cup, Byrne is expected to announce the Flying Fijians squad soon, as they prepare to host Samoa on August 23 before heading to Nukua’lofa to face Tonga on September 6.
In other news, three Fijian Drua players are set to participate in the New Zealand National Provincial Championship. The players are forwards Te Ahiwaru Cirikidaveta, who will play for Tasman Mako, Haereiti Hetet for Bay of Plenty, and Isaia Armstrong-Ravula for Manawatu Turbos. The NPC begins on August 9, and these players will return to join the Drua for next year’s Super Rugby Pacific season.