Flying Fijians head coach Mick Byrne sees his role as more of a facilitator.
During the Maul or Nothing podcast, Byrne emphasized that after the success of last year’s Rugby World Cup, he plans to build on what has been working for the team rather than imposing his own style. “I’m not going to stamp my authority or my way in the group like some other coaches do,” Byrne stated.
The 66-year-old coach mentioned that understanding the players and determining what is best for them is crucial. “What is going to suit this group of players? Conducting skillset training allows me to assess their abilities and build their game from there. I look at what they are capable of and then challenge them to improve.”
Byrne explained that great players thrive on these challenges as it motivates them to enhance their skills. “They always keep asking questions to become better.”
As a facilitator, Byrne aims to bring out the best in the players. “This is because Fijians enjoy the opportunity not to be downtrodden or pushed into a rigid system that curtails their spirit.”
He also highlighted the challenges faced during the recent tour to England, where they played the Barbarians outside the July Test window, noting difficulties in getting players released 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’ve got to get used to it,” Byrne added.
Byrne said he now needs to find the right approach and start building relationships with the clubs. He is expected to soon name the Flying Fijians squad for the Pacific Nations Cup, where they will host Samoa on August 23 before traveling to Nuku’alofa to play Tonga on September 6.
Meanwhile, three Fijian Drua players have been confirmed to play in the New Zealand National Provincial Championship. They are forwards Te Ahiwaru Cirikidaveta playing for Tasman Mako, Haereiti Hetet for Bay of Plenty, and Isaia Armstrong-Ravula for Manawatu Turbos. The NPC starts on August 9. The players will return to join the Drua for next year’s Super Rugby Pacific competition.
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