This weekend marks the start of the National Premier League in Fiji, with over 100 referees ready to officiate across all divisions. According to Avinesh Narayan, Director of Referees for the Fiji Football Association (Fiji FA), a total of 150 referees have been registered, with 28 to 30 classified as elite referees. The referees have all undergone extensive training on the latest laws of the game, ensuring they are well-prepared for the matches ahead.
Five matches are scheduled for Sunday, including the debut match for Tavua against Nadi at Garvey Park, and a key clash between defending champions Rewa and Labasa at Ratu Cakobau Park. Other fixtures include Navua facing Nadroga at Lawaqa Park, and a match featuring Nasinu against Lautoka at Uprising Sports Complex.
The focus on referee training reflects a broader commitment within Fiji’s football community to elevate the standards of officiating, paralleling similar initiatives aimed at enhancing coaching standards. Consequently, the investment in referee development not only seeks to improve the quality of officiating but also hopes to inspire a new generation of officials and contribute to the overall growth of football in Fiji.
As this league season begins, football fans can look forward to thrilling matches and the opportunity to witness local talent shine on the pitch. Encouraging broader participation and engagement from both fans and players alike, it promises a vibrant footballing landscape in the months to come. Each game will serve as a platform for showcasing the rich talent within Fiji’s football scene, providing optimism for the future of the sport.
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