Beyond Talent: The Hard Work Formula to Becoming a Flying Fijian

For young Fijian rugby players dreaming of donning the famous white jersey of the Flying Fijians, head coach Mick Byrne has one key message: hard work beats talent. While natural ability is common among Fijian youngsters, it is dedication and perseverance that separate those who make it to the top from those who don’t.

Byrne emphasizes that scouts and coaches aren’t just looking for raw talent—they seek players who are willing to go the extra mile. Work ethic, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to improvement are crucial traits for any aspiring professional rugby player. He recalls conversations with current Flying Fijians players who admitted that there were more talented players in their villages, yet those individuals never made it to the national team. The difference? Hard work.

Many players may dream of representing Fiji on the international stage, but without dedication to training, self-discipline, and the willingness to push beyond their limits, talent alone won’t be enough. Byrne encourages young players to constantly ask themselves, “What more can I do to become better?” That mindset, he believes, is what separates a good player from a great one.

He reassures aspiring players that nothing is impossible. If they commit to their goals with discipline and perseverance, their dreams of playing for the Flying Fijians can become a reality. In the end, talent may open doors, but hard work is what ensures success on the rugby field.