Flying Fijians head coach Mick Byrne describes his coaching approach as more of a facilitator. In a discussion on the Maul or Nothing podcast, Byrne emphasized that following the success of last year’s Rugby World Cup, he plans to stick with what has been effective for the team while seeking enhancements.
“I’m not going to enforce my authority or methods on the group like some other coaches do,” Byrne stated.
The 66-year-old coach explained that understanding the players is key to determining what works best for them. “What is going to suit this group of players? By doing skillset training, I can see their abilities and build their game from there. Identify what they can do and then challenge them to improve.”
“Great players welcome these challenges as it motivates them to address areas they find challenging. They constantly seek to improve by asking questions,” Byrne added.
Byrne sees his role as a facilitator, aiming to bring out the best in the players. “This is because the Fijians appreciate the opportunity to avoid being restricted or pushed into a rigid structure, allowing them to maintain their spirit.”
He acknowledged the difficulties faced during their recent tour to England, particularly in securing player releases from their respective clubs outside the July Test window. “It was all new to me,” Byrne admitted. “In my 17 years of coaching in Australia and New Zealand, it has never been an issue. The Giteau Law in Australia involves only a few players, and they have someone managing it. I’ve got to get used to it.”
Byrne intends to establish good relationships with the clubs moving forward. He is set to announce the Flying Fijians squad for the Pacific Nations Cup soon. The team will host Samoa on August 23 before traveling to Nukua’lofa to play Tonga on September 6.
Drua Players for NPC
Meanwhile, three Fijian Drua players have been confirmed to participate in the New Zealand National Provincial Championship. They are forwards Te Ahiwaru Cirikidaveta, who will be playing for Tasman Mako, Haereiti Hetet for Bay of Plenty, and Isaia Armstrong-Ravula for Manawatu Turbos. The NPC begins on August 9. The players are expected to rejoin the Drua for next year’s Super Rugby Pacific competition.