The Kaiviti Silktails are in the crucial final phase of their pre-season training as they prepare for the 2026 NSWRL Jersey Flegg Cup. Now entering Week 8 of their campaign, the focus within the squad has shifted from merely establishing their place in the competition to honing in on the vital details, referred to as the “one percenters,” that Technical Advisor Joey Saukuru believes will be pivotal for their season.
The previous year was significant for the Silktails, marking a breakthrough as they secured historic away victories in both the Ron Massey Cup and Jersey Flegg competitions, most notably against powerhouse teams like the Melbourne Storm. This shift not only shattered long-held perceptions about their capabilities but also invigorated the team’s confidence.
Saukuru reflected on that turning point, stating, “That breakthrough was incredibly important for our confidence. Doing it against the actual premiers and ladder leaders made it even more significant. The performance wasn’t just convincing — the boys enjoyed it, and that did a lot for their belief.” These victories have confirmed the Silktails’ ability to compete and win consistently against top-tier teams, even while playing on Australian soil.
With this newfound confidence, the coaching staff has adapted their pre-season training approach, focusing on precision and the specific roles each player will play. “We’re really focused on fine skills and detail. We’ve got new faces and a young squad, so those small one percent skills are critical. After proving we can win away, it’s the details that will keep us there,” Saukuru emphasized.
Competing in a full 26-round Jersey Flegg season presents a new challenge, especially for many Fijian players who are not accustomed to such intensity and duration. Saukuru pointed out, “No other kid in Fiji is playing 26 rounds of rugby or rugby league. Consistency and self-belief are our biggest focus areas.” While the presence of experienced leaders helps to anchor the squad, the integration of younger players means that the Silktails must quickly adapt to maintaining peak performance week in and week out.
The partnership with the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs has further strengthened the team’s growth, with mentors like Mick Potter and Craig Wilson working closely with the players to instill rigorous training habits reflective of the Bulldogs’ system. “Hard work is the standard,” Saukuru noted.
As the first round approaches, accountability within the team is paramount, with an emphasis on teamwork and rapid error correction. Despite occasional frustrations, Saukuru is optimistic about the players’ responses, particularly the promising new talent emerging. “The boys are quick to correct themselves. What excites me most is the young crop coming through. Now in our third year of Flegg, seeing how fast they’re adapting — it’s a really exciting time for the club.”
Armed with the confidence gained from past successes and a sharpened focus on detail, the Silktails are preparing not just to earn respect but to maintain it in the competitive landscape of the Jersey Flegg Cup.
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