The Fijian rugby community is rallying for a heightened standard of match officiating to align with Fiji’s recognition as a tier-one rugby nation. This call to action was prominently made by Fiji Rugby Union chairman John Sanday during the Fiji Rugby Referees Awards held earlier this month at the Vodafone Arena in Suva.
Sanday urged referees to embrace the vision of Fiji Rugby, which aims to advance the sport, particularly among younger officials. He emphasized the importance of adapting to change and collaborating with the Fiji Rugby Union (FRU) as they prepare to participate in the Nations Championship next year.
He underscored the pivotal role referees play in elevating the sport, commending their efforts in mentoring up-and-coming referees and fostering a culture of respect and excellence within the game. Sanday articulated the need for referees to rise to the challenge and improve their officiating standards as Fiji moves toward this new chapter in competitive rugby.
The Minister for Youth and Sports, Jese Saukuru, echoed Sanday’s sentiments in his keynote address, painting a vision of a future where Fiji’s tier-one status is not just evident on the field but also mirrored in the quality of officiating. “The work of our referees directly contributes to this goal,” Saukuru stated, reinforcing the collaborative effort needed to elevate Fijian rugby.
As Fiji prepares for the challenges of international rugby, the emphasis on quality officiating and development for younger referees serves as a crucial component in solidifying the nation’s esteemed status in the rugby world. The commitment shown by both FRU leadership and government representatives paints a hopeful picture for the future of rugby in Fiji, with aspirations set high for both players and officiating.
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