Jackson backs Drua future despite departure of key players

Glen Jackson, the departing head coach of the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua, expressed confidence in the club's future prospects, even as eight players prepare to leave at the end of the Super Rugby Pacific season. Speaking at the Drua Awards Night, Jackson reflected on his four-year tenure, highlighting the team's journey and the need to convert experiences into championship victories.

“

I talk about memories a lot, but it really is about winning memories. So we’ve created memories, boys, but really, it’s time to start winning memories. We need to keep this brand strong. This is the best brand in Super Rugby.

"I talk about memories a lot, but it really is about winning memories," Jackson said. "So we’ve created memories, boys, but really, it’s time to start winning memories. We need to keep this brand strong. This is the best brand in Super Rugby."

“

The Drua will always be part of us and part of me. It will always be in our hearts and our memories.

Jackson, who is leaving with his wife Fiona, acknowledged the tough decision but affirmed the Drua's lasting place in their hearts. He also addressed the departure of players like Elia Canakaivata, Isoa Nasilasila, and Simione Kuruvoli, framing player movement as a positive aspect of the club's growth. "As you can see, we’re losing a lot. I don’t think that’s an important thing around the Drua, because we always need the turnover of players," he explained. "This country lives and breathes rugby, and if we don’t have a turnover in this club, then we’re stopping young men putting on the blue jersey."

“

As you can see, we’re losing a lot. I don’t think that’s an important thing around the Drua, because we always need the turnover of players. This country lives and breathes rugby, and if we don’t have a turnover in this club, then we’re stopping young men putting on the blue jersey.

He encouraged celebrating the players pursuing overseas opportunities, viewing it as a testament to the game's ability to create new avenues. Jackson looks forward to the emergence of new talent and the continued building of the Drua legacy. The club aims to become a dominant force, securing multiple titles in the coming years.

“

It’s not a sad thing. It’s a good thing that young men decide to go overseas and try something different. That’s what rugby brings, and that’s the importance of this game.