Fiji Water Flying Fijians head coach Mick Byrne has truly embraced life and his rugby career in Fiji, where he has found a warm and welcoming home. Originally from Manly, Sydney, Australia, Byrne’s extensive travels throughout his rugby journey have led him to a profound appreciation for the Fijian way of life.
Byrne expresses gratitude for the opportunity to immerse himself in the vibrant Fijian culture, enhancing his relationships with players and the surrounding community. “Now based in Fiji, this is my primary residence. When I go back to Australia, I’m Airbnb-ing, so I feel firmly entrenched in Fiji and I’m loving my time here,” he reflects.
In addition to his coaching duties, Byrne has embraced the village lifestyle in Sikituru Village, near Nadi. This deepened connection with the community allows him to better understand the ethos of those he coaches, which he believes is essential for effective coaching in Fijian rugby.
Byrne was drawn to lead the Drua’s inaugural Super Rugby Pacific campaign due to its start-up nature, which called for substantial foundational development. “One of my driving forces for joining the Drua was that it was a start-up program. A lot of development work was required, and that’s what I’ve cut my teeth on in the game,” he states.
Despite the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, his players’ resilience and determination stood out. He noted, “What impressed me massively was how hard and resilient they were towards work. They just kept fronting up every day, and that was the inspiring part.”
While acknowledging the wealth of raw talent within the squad, Byrne recognizes the need for growth in core technical skills. Nonetheless, he commends the players’ instinctive ability to maintain possession and play with fluidity—traits he considers uniquely Fijian.
Byrne emphasizes the importance of ‘vuvale’, which embodies a sense of togetherness. “It’s about the relationships you have with people around you, respecting and caring for everyone, and that’s taken on a much broader meaning for me since coming to Fiji,” he explains.
As Mick Byrne continues to lead the Flying Fijians, his deepening bond with Fiji and its culture lays a solid foundation for success on the international rugby stage. His journey reflects the powerful connection between sports and community, offering hope and inspiration for both players and fans alike.