Flying Fijians head coach Mick Byrne considers his role more as a facilitator.
In a discussion on the Maul or Nothing podcast, Byrne emphasized that after the success at the last year’s Rugby World Cup, he aims to build on what has worked for the team rather than imposing drastic changes.
“I’m not going to stamp my authority or my way within the group like some other coaches do,” Byrne said.
The 66-year-old coach explained that he needs to understand the players and determine what suits them best.
“What will suit this group of players? Through skillset training, I can understand their skills and then build their game from there. See what they can do and challenge them to improve,” he explained.
“Great players appreciate these challenges as it motivates them to improve in areas they struggle with. They consistently ask questions to become better.”
Byrne said that, as a facilitator, his role is to bring out the best in his players.
“This is because Fijians enjoy having the opportunity not to be restrained or limited, enabling their spirit to flourish.”
He referenced a recent tour to England where they played the Barbarians outside the July Test window, noting the challenges in securing player releases from their respective clubs.
“It was all new to me,” Byrne remarked. “I’ve coached in Australia and New Zealand for 17 years, and it has never been an issue. The Giteau Law in Australia only involves two or three players, but they have someone managing it.”
“I’m getting used to it,” he added.
Byrne stated that he will now focus on building relationships with the clubs and finding the best approach moving forward.
He is expected to soon announce the Flying Fijians squad for the Pacific Nations Cup, where they will host Samoa on August 23 before traveling to Nukualofa to play Tonga on September 6.
In related news, three Fijian Drua players have been confirmed to play in the New Zealand National Provincial Championship. Forwards Te Ahiwaru Cirikidaveta will play for Tasman Mako, Haereiti Hetet for Bay of Plenty, and Isaia Armstrong-Ravula for Manawatu Turbos. The NPC begins on August 9.
These players will return to join the Drua for next year’s Super Rugby Pacific competition.