THE strong presence of McDonald’s Fiji Drua Women players in the Vodafone Fijiana XV squad is providing the side with an important foundation as it prepares for its Test against Japan on September 4.
Fijiana XV head coach Willie Walker said the relationships already developed among the Drua players have helped the national side build combinations as it prepares for the one-off Test and the WXV Global Series Challenger in Hong Kong.
The Challenger tournament will run from September 13 to 26.
Walker said one of the major benefits of having several Drua players in the Fijiana XV squad was their understanding of each other’s game.
“They understand each other. They already have those relationships,” Walker said.
“They understand how each player plays the game, so that connection is automatically there.”
However, Walker said the transition into the national team environment has also required the players to adapt because the Fijiana XV is introducing systems and approaches different from those used by the Drua.
The coaching staff is also working to integrate players who were not part of the Drua squad and ensure everyone understands their roles.
Walker believes the senior players in the squad will play an important role in that process.
He said experienced players who have already played Test rugby understand the standards and expectations required at international level.
“The senior players are vital in making sure that our new players that are coming into this environment understand what it means to be here, firstly, to play for Fijiana,” Walker said.
Walker also reminded the players that earning a place in the Fijiana XV squad is only the beginning of their international journey.
He expects every player to continue challenging themselves and improving each day.
The coach said the long-term growth of the programme depended on creating an environment where players were prepared to work harder to retain their positions.
