Former Flying Fijians first five-eighth Nicky Little recently visited the Fijian Drua’s base in Legalega, Nadi, engaging warmly with current players and officials. During his visit, he expressed admiration for the advanced training facilities, wishing such resources had been available during his playing days. This visit also provided an opportunity for Little to reunite with former teammates Kele Leawere and Ifereimi Rawaqa, both of whom were part of the historic 2007 Rugby World Cup team that famously defeated Wales 38-34.
Little noted the importance of unity in a team environment and reflected on the camaraderie experienced during his own early rugby years, stating, “This is amazing. I wish we had this when I was younger.” He emphasized how the modern facilities foster a strong sense of togetherness among the players, built on the foundation of shared experiences and mutual support.
Known for his exceptional kicking skills, Little shared valuable advice with the Drua fly-halves, underscoring effective ball distribution strategies, which involve moving the ball efficiently from forwards to backs while emphasizing the basics of defense with a clear directive: “And on defense, tackle your man. That’s it.” He also highlighted the crucial role of local support for the home Super Rugby team, praising the professionalism of local coaches like Leawere and Rawaqa.
Looking ahead to the 2025 season, Little conveyed a message of collective pride and encouragement to the players donning the Drua jersey, stating, “We’re the blue and I’m just lost for words. It’s just awesome.” He urged current players to give back to the rugby community, recommending that they share their experiences and lessons learned rather than keeping them to themselves.
Little’s visit underscores the vital link between former and current players in fostering the future of Fijian rugby. It also signifies the broader commitment of the Fijian Drua to strengthening community ties, with ongoing pre-season activities, including recent engagements around Kadavu, demonstrating their dedication to building team spirit and nurturing local talent.
In summary, Nicky Little’s supportive visit not only highlights the growth of rugby infrastructure in Fiji but also showcases the enduring spirit of community and teamwork central to the Drua’s mission. As the team prepares for the upcoming Super Rugby season, the emphasis on unity and local engagement offers a promising outlook for their future endeavors.
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