Byrne cherishes time with the Drua

Former Fijian Drua head coach Mick Byrne has stepped down as the Flying Fijians head coach.

“It has been an honour to work with the Flying Fijians players and staff. And before that the Drua players and staff,” Byrne said.

“I have been overwhelmed by the support of ‘the world’s best’ Fiji fans during my 5-year involvement their warmth and welcome have meant a great deal to me. I remain fully committed to the game and wish Fiji Rugby every success moving forward.”

The 67-year-old coached the Drua when it made its Super Rugby Pacific debut in 2022.

The then Drua squad consists mainly of local-based players did wonders with Byrne on their first year when they recorded two wins. Such record cannot be matched by the Argentina’s Jaguares, Sunwolves of Japan along with South African franchise clubs Lions.

Byrne in his second and third Super Rugby year, managed to guide the Drua to the quarterfinals.

Then he resigned at the end of the 2024 season to become the Flying Fijians head coach.

Byrne again did wonders as the Flying Fijians won the Pacific Nations Cup in 2025 and 2026.

Also, the Flying Fijians recorded wins over Wales, Scotland and Japan.

Byrne in 2025 and 2027 recorded an impressive 66.67% winning rate.