Former Flying Fijians first five-eighth Nicky Little recently visited the Fijian Drua’s base in Legalega, Nadi, where he was warmly welcomed by the current squad and coaching officials. During his visit, Little expressed admiration for the state-of-the-art facilities, mentioning his wish that such resources had been available during his own playing career. Reflecting on his experiences, he reunified with former teammates Kele Leawere and Ifereimi Rawaqa, both integral members of the historic 2007 Rugby World Cup team that achieved a memorable 38-34 victory over Wales.

“This is amazing. I wish we had this when I was younger,” Little remarked, emphasizing the importance of unity among players. He drew comparisons between the camaraderie he experienced in the Army barracks in the 1970s and the current supportive environment within the Drua team, noting, “But here you have the unity of having lots. It’s really good.”

Known for his kicking prowess, Little shared valuable insights with the Drua fly-halves, advising them on the effective movement of the ball from forwards to faster backs and the strategic use of kicking. He fortified the need for solid defensive tactics, stating simply, “And on defense, tackle your man. That’s it.”

Little also stressed the critical importance of local support for the Drua and praised the professionalism of local coaches like Rawaqa and Leawere, affirming their competence in guiding the players effectively. His heartfelt message for the 2025 season was one of collective pride, stating, “All our own guys are just proud to be the men who wear the blue.” He encouraged current players to give back to the rugby community, sharing their experiences and knowledge with younger athletes.

The Fijian Drua is committed to nurturing local talent and fostering a strong sense of community, as evidenced by their pre-season activities, including outreach initiatives in places like Kadavu, enhancing team bonds and demonstrating their dedication to local engagement.

As the Drua prepares for the upcoming Super Rugby season, their focus on unity and community connection provides a hopeful outlook for future successes. Little’s visit not only reinforces the vital link between past and present players but also highlights the broader themes of community involvement and giving back, which are essential in shaping the future of rugby in Fiji.