Fiji Water Flying Fijians head coach Mick Byrne has shared insights on his smooth transition to life and rugby in Fiji, noting his efforts to forge strong relationships both on and off the field. Hailing from Manly, Sydney, Byrne’s extensive rugby journey has led him to embrace Fiji as his new home, where he has established his primary base.
Byrne expressed that moving to Fiji has allowed him a deeper understanding of the culture and values intrinsic to Fijian rugby. “I’m based in Fiji now, this is my primary residence. When I go back to Australia, I’m Airbnb-ing, so I feel firmly entrenched in Fiji and I’m loving my time here,” he stated. This commitment extends beyond the field as he has connected with the nearby Sikituru village, which has enriched his ties with the community he coaches.
A significant motivating factor for Byrne was the opportunity to lead the development-focused Drua project, which necessitated laying a strong foundation for a budding rugby program. He remarked, “One of my driving forces for joining the Drua was that it was a start-up programme. A lot of development work was required, and that’s what I’ve cut my teeth on in the game.”
The initial period was marked by challenges, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic when many players faced long stretches without structured training. Nonetheless, Byrne highlighted the remarkable resilience demonstrated by the squad as they prepared for Super Rugby, saying, “What impressed me massively was how hard and resilient they were towards work. They just kept fronting up every day, and that was the inspiring part.”
While the team exhibited a wealth of raw talent, Byrne acknowledged the necessity of enhancing their core technical skills. He was, however, encouraged by the players’ innate ability to maintain possession and play with instinct, a hallmark of Fijian rugby.
A vital part of Byrne’s experience has been the understanding of Vuvale, which transcends the conventional notion of family. He elaborated, “Vuvale means we’re all in this together. It’s about the relationships you have with people around you, respecting and caring for everyone and that’s taken on a much broader meaning for me since coming to Fiji.”
As Byrne continues to lead the Flying Fijians, his deepening connection with Fiji and its populace is becoming a cornerstone for future success, both on the international stage and within the local rugby community. This positive integration not only enhances the team’s performance but also fosters a spirit of unity that could pave the way for remarkable achievements in the sport.
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