Former Flying Fijians first five-eighth Nicky Little made a notable visit to the Fijian Drua’s base in Legalega, Nadi, where he was warmly welcomed by the current squad and officials. Reflecting on the advanced facilities available to the Drua, he expressed a wish that such resources had been available during his own playing days.
During his visit, Little had a heartfelt reunion with fellow 2007 Rugby World Cup teammates, Kele Leawere and Ifereimi Rawaqa, with whom he famously celebrated the historic victory against Wales, winning 38-34. Commenting on the atmosphere at the Drua, he remarked, “This is amazing. I wish we had this when I was younger,” which underscored the strong sense of unity among the players today. He contrasted the camaraderie of his past experiences in the Army barracks of the 1970s, emphasizing the benefits of the current supportive environment.
Known for his exceptional kicking skills, Little shared valuable advice with the Drua fly-halves, including the importance of effective ball movement from forwards to faster backs and strategic kicking. He also highlighted the need for solid defensive tactics, succinctly stating, “And on defense, tackle your man. That’s it.”
Little also stressed the critical need for ongoing local support for the Drua and praised the professionalism of local coaches like Rawaqa and Leawere for their roles in bridging connections with the players. Looking ahead to the 2025 season, he injected a message of pride for the team, stating, “All our own guys are just proud to be the men who wear the blue.” He encouraged current players to focus not just on their careers, but on giving back to the rugby community by sharing their knowledge with younger athletes.
The Fijian Drua has been actively engaged in community initiatives, even participating in pre-season training activities in places like Kadavu. These efforts aim to strengthen team dynamics while nurturing local talent and reinforcing community connections.
As the Drua prepares for the upcoming Super Rugby season, their emphasis on unity and local engagement presents a hopeful outlook for future successes. Little’s visit highlights the enduring relationship between past and present players and reinforces the significance of teamwork, support, and giving back within the vibrant rugby culture of Fiji. This engagement serves to inspire future generations of athletes, reminding them of the importance of collaboration and the spirit of rugby in shaping their lives.
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