'I need to fit and contribute': New Drua head coach lays out clear vision for the future

New Fijian Drua head coach Brad Mooar has laid out a clear vision for the Fiji-based Super Rugby Pacific franchise, emphasizing that players must work diligently to foster an enjoyable and positive team environment. Mooar, who previously served as an assistant coach for the All Blacks and Scotland, and spent the last two years with the Crusaders, stated in his first press conference that he will utilize his extensive experience to guide the team.

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The way forward is clear: everyone must work and perform, in an environment that will be exciting and positive for growth as a team

"The way forward is clear: everyone must work and perform, in an environment that will be exciting and positive for growth as a team," Mooar said. He added, "I think they can expect to enjoy being here, to enjoy coming to work, bounce out of bed to get to the Drua. And work hard for each other. They'll know that effort is a compulsory requirement. We all work hard physically, mentally, emotionally. We will put in the effort for each other, and that will drive performance."

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I think they can expect to enjoy being here, to enjoy coming to work, bounce out of bed to get to the Drua. And work hard for each other. They'll know that effort is a compulsory requirement. We all work hard physically, mentally, emotionally. We will put in the effort for each other, and that will drive performance.

Mooar intends to draw from "every aspect" of his coaching experience, highlighting the significant value of his time with Scotland and the All Blacks. His immediate focus is on integrating into the Drua's unique environment. "This is the Drua environment, the Fiji environment that I've now privileged to be part of. I need to fit and contribute into this environment, not the other way around," he explained.

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This is the Drua environment, the Fiji environment that I've now privileged to be part of. I need to fit and contribute into this environment, not the other way around.

He plans to build upon the foundations laid by previous coaches Mick Byrne and Glen Jackson, expressing his attraction to the club's people, culture, and the opportunity to work with talented athletes. Mooar was particularly moved by what the Drua signifies to the people of Fiji. "I always start from a position of strength, and I think the privilege of the role that I'm now in comes off the back of Mick Byrne and Glenn Jackson doing some excellent work with the Drua already," he stated. He aims to provide players with clarity of role and team identity to enable them to showcase their skills and seize opportunities, with a particular focus on strengthening the team's set piece and developing an aggressive, strong game.

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I always start from a position of strength, and I think the privilege of the role that I'm now in comes off the back of Mick Byrne and Glenn Jackson doing some excellent work with the Drua already.