Former Flying Fijians first five-eighth Nicky Little was warmly welcomed at the Fijian Drua’s base in Legalega, Nadi, where he expressed admiration for the modern facilities available to the team. During his visit, he reflected on the significant advancements in rugby resources, wishing such support had been present during his playing days.
Little enjoyed a heartfelt reunion with his former teammates, Kele Leawere and Ifereimi Rawaqa, both key players in Fiji’s historic 2007 Rugby World Cup victory over Wales. He underscored the theme of unity, stating, “This is amazing. I wish we had this when I was younger,” and compared the current team environment favorably to the camaraderie experienced in the Army barracks during his tenure in the 1970s.
Known for his exceptional kicking skills, Little shared valuable insights with the Drua fly-halves, emphasizing the importance of transitioning the ball from forwards to faster backs and the strategic use of kicks in play. He offered straightforward advice on defense, simply stating, “And on defense, tackle your man. That’s it.”
He stressed the need for ongoing local support for the Drua and praised the professionalism of local coaches Leawere and Rawaqa, affirming their expertise in guiding the players effectively. As he looked ahead to the 2025 season, Little conveyed a message of pride for those who wear the blue jersey: “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 by sharing their knowledge and experiences with younger athletes.
The Fijian Drua remains committed to nurturing local talent and fostering a strong sense of community, as illustrated by their pre-season training initiatives and outreach programs. As they prepare for the upcoming Super Rugby season, the Drua’s emphasis on teamwork and community engagement offers a promising outlook for future successes. Little’s visit reinforces the enduring connection between past and present players and highlights the significance of support, teamwork, and giving back in inspiring the next generation of Fijian athletes.
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