Fitness is the primary focus for the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua as they embark on their off-season training program. This was emphasized by Drua head coach Glen Jackson during a recent interview.
“We cannot win Super Rugby if we are not fit,” Jackson stated when discussing the team’s current priorities. He noted that strength and conditioning coach Master Naca Cawanibuka and his team now have ample time to prepare the athletes. “They have been doing well so far, and we have observed significant improvements.”
Jackson acknowledged that it has been a challenging week of training for the players, particularly after a good break following last season. He mentioned that the players from the Flying Fijians are still preparing for the November tour, while the development players have returned in good shape, yet they are feeling the intensity of training after a week and a half.
The Drua’s off-season training is further enhanced by the expertise of assistant coaches Tim Sampson and Chris Gibbes. Jackson expressed enthusiasm about having two coaches with impressive backgrounds.
Gibbes previously served as the assistant coach for the Hurricanes before taking on the role of forwards coach with the Drua. He led Wellington to promotion in 2017 and has also coached teams in Japan, Georgia, and New Zealand’s Under-20 squad.
Sampson was head coach at Western Force from 2018 to 2022, later joining the Melbourne Rebels as an assistant coach in 2023, where the team advanced to the Super Rugby quarterfinals. He is now the attack coach for the Drua.
“They understand the Super Rugby competition very well, and I feel fortunate to have them as part of the coaching staff,” Jackson said. He also noted their eagerness to learn the players’ names and integrate with the team from the outset, highlighting their motivation and genuine appreciation for being part of the organization.
Additionally, the Drua is considering a trip to Kadavu in December for training, community outreach, and team bonding activities. “We are focusing on bringing the team together, both on and off the field,” Jackson clarified.