TALENT may open the door, but Swire Shipping Fijian Drua Development coach Nemani Nadolo wants character, discipline and the hunger to improve to determine who walks through it.
As the Drua continues to build its pathway towards the 2027 Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific season, Nadolo has made it clear that selection into the development squad will not simply be based on natural ability.
The former Flying Fijians and Crusaders star is looking for players who genuinely want to learn, are prepared to work hard and understand that earning a place in the professional environment is only the beginning.
“I’m looking for character. I want to make sure that the guys that are coming in want to learn and want to get better,” Nadolo said.
“You’re not just passengers coming into the development. I don’t want guys who are just happy to be there. I want guys who want to be there.”
Nadolo believes rugby ability is important enough to get a player through the front door, but it is the attitude they bring into the environment that can determine how far they progress. He said the development program would focus on creating the right environment and programme to nurture players as they adjust to the demands of professional rugby.
“Rugby players, you’ve got to be good anyway. I think that’s what gets you in the front door,” he said.
“But one thing I’m going to work on with our players and making sure that we’ve got the right program for our players coming in.”
One of the most exciting aspects of the programme for Nadolo is the inclusion of players moving directly from high school into the professional Development squad.
He believes their transition will require careful mentoring and guidance as they take their first steps into professional rugby.
“It’s about nurturing and mentoring these young guys and having the right people in place to help mentor and help me with my job.”
For Nadolo, the difference between a talented player and a player capable of progressing to the highest level often comes down to mindset. He said a player could possess exceptional skills but still struggle to progress without the desire and discipline to improve.
“You can be the most gifted player in the world and the most skilful player in the world, but if the mindset and the drive is not there, then that’s going to be hard,” he said.
Nadolo said he would rather invest time in a player who is willing to learn and work hard than select someone purely because of natural talent.
“I’d rather take a kid that is not the most gifted, but willing to learn, willing to work hard over someone who’s really talented,” he said.
His message to aspiring Drua players is simple — keep turning up and keep working. Nadolo said players should never assume that their efforts were going unnoticed, stressing that opportunities could come from unexpected places.
“Continue to rock up, continue to work hard. You just don’t know who’s watching,” he said.
He also pointed to local competitions as important platforms where young players can put their abilities on display.
Fijian Drua Development coach Nemani Nadolo targets character in Drua talent search. Picture: SUPPLIED
