Fiji Airways Flying Fijians head coach Mick Byrne expresses pride in the team’s performance throughout 2025, highlighting a year characterized by growth, commitment, and improvement, despite some disappointments, especially against top-tier opponents. He emphasizes that their progress has not gone unnoticed by knowledgeable observers.
Byrne explains that summarizing their ten test matches in a single word would be inadequate, as the experiences were multifaceted. Reflecting on the match against Australia, he acknowledges the disappointment of a missed victory but is heartened by their subsequent comeback against Scotland.
With rising expectations from fans, Byrne emphasizes the team’s significant advancements in maintaining focus while avoiding distractions, insisting on the importance of stepping up in their roles consistently. He remarks on the emotional aspects of rugby, noting the need for the team to manage their emotions effectively to avoid the pitfalls of an emotional rollercoaster. As he looks back, Byrne feels a strong sense of pride in what the team has accomplished.
Byrne also recognizes the pressures that come with rugby’s status as the nation’s top sport, which often leads to criticism from passionate fans. He notes that, with the recent success of Fiji’s sevens team, supporters rightfully desire similar results from the Flying Fijians. He goes on to elaborate on the technical differences and demands of the fifteen-a-side game, underscoring the adaptations necessary to remain competitive against leading rugby nations while still capturing the vibrant essence of Fijian rugby.
To compete with the world’s best, Byrne insists that the team must respect the ball and embrace a different style of play, especially during this transitional phase. He understands that while supporters want to see exciting moments from their team, the reality is that such elements may not necessarily yield results at the highest level. This reflection serves as a reminder of the balance necessary between maintaining Fiji’s unique flair and achieving success on the international stage.