“It’ life after rugby, life and things happen good and bad and we just need to get together and live life the we best can.
From left: Former Flying Fijians teammates Kele Leawere, William Koong (physiotherapist), Nicky Little, Ifereimi Rawaqa and Fijian Drua Head of Athletic Performance Nacani Cawanibuka at the Fijian Drua headquarters in Legalega, Nadi on January 9, 2025.
Photo: Fijian Drua
Former Flying Fijians first five eight Nicky Little was in Fijian Drua base at Legalega, Nadi on Thursday.
The Little family was hosted by the Drua squad and officials at their headquarters; one he wished was established in the country during his early days of playing rugby.
He also reunited with former teammates including Kele Leawere and Ifereimi Rawaqa who he played along during the 2007 Rugby World Cup in France.
Their team created history when they beat Wales 38-34 in their final pool match.
“This is amazing. I wish we had this when I was younger,” Little said of the Drua base.
“I don’t really have the words. It’s beautiful, the whole integration of having everyone here on board together to cre-ate the unity.
“I guess that’s what made us good in the Army barracks back in the 1970s, the unity of having nothing.
“But here you got the unity of having lots, it’s really good.”
Known for his kicking skills, Little shared a tip.
“What I learned really good was to get the ball from the big guys and give it to the fast guys and when that starts to break down, try and kick it in the corner. We can repeat that process, if you can simplify that,” he told Drua Media when asked of his advise to the Drua fly-halves.
“And on defense, tackle your man. That’s it.”
He added that the support for the home Super Rugby team was crucial. He also acknowledged the local coaches Rawaqa and Leawere who are assisting the side.
“They’re all professionals here. They know what they’re doing.
“We just need to keep supporting them as much as we can.
“It’ life after rugby, life and things happen good and bad and we just need to get together and live life the we best can.
“It’s just great to see them and giving back. That’s what I think most of us the all the players should give back what we learnt to give it back rather than just keeping it and drinking and doing nothing with it.
“You should be drinking and giving back.”
Asked for a message for the Drua teams ahead of the 2025 season, Little said: “My message is I’m just here supportive of everything. I think all our own guys are just proud to be the men who wear the blue. I haven’t said that before. We’re the blue and I’m just lost of words, it’s just awesome.”
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