Former Flying Fijians first five-eighth Nicky Little recently visited the Fijian Drua’s headquarters in Legalega, Nadi, where he was warmly received by the current squad and coaching staff. During his visit, Little expressed admiration for the advanced facilities at the Drua, voicing a wish that such resources had been available during his own playing days.
Little took the opportunity to reunite with former teammates Kele Leawere and Ifereimi Rawaqa, both instrumental in Fiji’s historic victory against Wales in the 2007 Rugby World Cup, where the team triumphed 38-34. Reflecting on the strong sense of unity within the current team, he remarked, “This is amazing. I wish we had this when I was younger.” He contrasted the camaraderie he experienced during his time in the Army barracks of the 1970s with today’s supportive environment, emphasizing how resources have fostered greater team cohesion.
Known for his exceptional kicking skills, Little shared valuable insights with the Drua fly-halves, emphasizing the importance of moving the ball effectively from forwards to faster backs and utilizing strategic kicking. He also highlighted the need for solid defensive tactics, succinctly stating, “And on defense, tackle your man. That’s it.”
Little stressed the critical role of local support for the Drua and praised the professionalism of local coaches, noting, “They’re all professionals here. They know what they’re doing.” As he looked ahead to the 2025 season, he conveyed a heartfelt message of pride, asserting, “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 dedicated to nurturing local talent and fostering community spirit, as evidenced by their pre-season training activities, including outreach initiatives in locations like Kadavu. These efforts not only strengthen team dynamics but also reinforce the club’s commitment to cultural engagement and local development.
As the Drua prepares for the upcoming Super Rugby season, their focus on unity and community involvement provides a hopeful outlook for future successes. Little’s visit not only strengthens the bond between past and present players but also highlights the importance of teamwork, support, and giving back—all essential for inspiring future generations of athletes in Fiji. Through this engagement, Little reminds all participants in the sport of rugby of the importance of collaboration and the spirit of giving back, ensuring that the legacy of the game continues to thrive.
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