SWIRE SHIPPING Fijian Drua head coach Glen Jackson has identified leadership and player development as vital focus areas as the team prepares for the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season. Jackson highlighted the significance of incorporating experienced players like Temo Mayanavanua, Manasa Mataele, and Angelo Smith to provide essential leadership on and off the field.
“We needed some players because we lost a few leaders from our team, and bringing in someone like Temo, who has played in Highland Cup and Premiership rugby in England, has been fantastic,” Jackson stated. He expressed enthusiasm about the commitment these players have toward the Drua. With Manasa recently winning the NPC, Jackson believes that their varying experiences will be beneficial for the team, as they currently have a reasonably young squad.
The coach confirmed that he will announce the team captain for the 2026 season once the Flying Fijians return next month. “We will wait for the national team to finish, and after discussions about their performances, we will announce the captain when our full squad comes together in December,” he noted.
Jackson also celebrated the promotion of four development players as a significant step for the club. “There aren’t many clubs that would deliberately incorporate as many development players as we have over the last four years, and to see four players promoted this year is exciting for them and their families,” he remarked, emphasizing the club’s growth.
The role of the Skipper Cup competition in player selection has also been underscored by Jackson. He stated, “The Skipper Cup has played a substantial role in our selections. We’ve had 19 guys play for us and brought in 16 guys, mainly through development or trial, all from the Skipper Cup, making it essential for talent assessment.”
As pre-season training starts, Jackson reiterated that hard work and balance will form the foundation for the upcoming season. “We’re in week one of pre-season, and the boys are already feeling the intensity of being back. Hard work is our main pillar during this phase,” he added.
In a broader context, Jackson’s commitment to building a competitive, homegrown squad reflects the Drua’s dedication to cultivating local talent, which has historically strengthened the team while fostering community pride in Fijian rugby. Fans can look forward to an exciting season ahead as the Drua prepares to implement its strategies and develop its promising roster.