Former Flying Fijians star Nicky Little visited the Fijian Drua’s headquarters in Legalega, Nadi, where he was greeted warmly by the current squad and coaching staff. This visit allowed Little to reflect on the significant advancements in the facilities, expressing a desire that such resources had been available during his playing days.
During his time at the Drua base, Little had a heartfelt reunion with compatriots Kele Leawere and Ifereimi Rawaqa, both of whom played alongside him in the historic 2007 Rugby World Cup, where Fiji achieved a stunning 38-34 victory over Wales. He remarked, “This is amazing. I wish we had this when I was younger,” emphasizing the value of team unity and camaraderie.
As an accomplished kicker, Little offered key advice to the Drua fly-halves on effective gameplay strategies. He stressed the importance of transitioning the ball from the forwards to faster backs and the tactical use of kicks during matches. He succinctly reinforced the necessity of solid defense with the reminder, “And on defense, tackle your man. That’s it.”
Little also underscored the vital need for local support for the Drua and praised the professionalism of the team’s local coaches, voicing confidence in their ability to guide the players. Looking ahead to the 2025 season, he conveyed a collective message of pride: “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 knowledge and experiences with younger athletes.
The Fijian Drua is actively engaging in community outreach and pre-season training initiatives, including recent activities in Kadavu, highlighting their dedication to fostering teamwork and nurturing local talent. This commitment not only enhances team dynamics but also underscores their connection to the wider community.
As the Drua gears up for the upcoming Super Rugby season, their focus on unity, community engagement, and support provides an optimistic outlook for future successes. Little’s visit serves as a reminder of the strong ties between past and present players and the essential impact of teamwork and community support on the volleyball culture in Fiji. His message reinforces the spirit of giving back, fostering connections, and inspiring hope for the continued growth of Fijian rugby.
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