The Swire Shipping Fiji Drua team is gaining momentum as they gear up for an exciting and challenging Super Rugby Pacific season. Forwards coach Chris Gibbs expresses optimism about the team’s progression during the pre-season, emphasizing that everyone is aligning towards a successful 2026 season.
“It’s been a really good shift here, and I think right through the organization you can see it, you can feel it that we are moving in the right direction,” Gibbs stated. While the team is still grappling with the disappointment of last season’s finish, this setback has become a catalyst for motivation among the players as they train.
Gibbs noted the importance of approaching this pre-season with a refreshed mindset and attitude, saying, “The reflection part for us was around making sure we turn up to this pre-season heading into 2026 with a better mindset and attitude.” The team’s focus in recent weeks has centered on enhancing these aspects.
Acknowledging the vital role of physicality in achieving a competitive edge, Gibbs pointed out, “We’ve been combining our rugby skill work, but we’ve understood that there’s a lot more physical stuff that we need to be getting out of our boys.” He has been actively ensuring that the players are pushed to meet these physical challenges, reporting positive results from their efforts.
The Drua’s highly anticipated 2026 season will commence at their home ground, Churchill Park in Lautoka, on February 14, when they face off against Moana Pasifika. With a renewed spirit and determination, the team is set to make a strong statement in the upcoming season.