Flying Fijians head coach Mick Byrne believes that the team’s strong family-like atmosphere is key to helping new recruits Saimoni Uluinakauvadra and Ratu Penaia Cakobau quickly adapt to the camp environment. Both players, who transitioned from New Zealand’s National Provincial Championship, have seamlessly integrated into the squad as they gear up for potential debuts in the upcoming northern hemisphere tour.
Byrne explains that the transition for these two young players has felt more like reconnecting with familiar faces than joining an entirely new team. He notes that, although new to the squad, they share a past with many of their teammates, whether through school connections, village ties, or shared childhood rugby experiences.
According to Byrne, this deep-rooted connection among players is a defining characteristic of the Flying Fijians, as the team’s environment fosters a sense of family that resonates with individuals from various backgrounds. The Flying Fijians are set to kick off their northern hemisphere tour against Scotland, with the game scheduled for 5:40 am this Sunday at Murrayfield.