The Fiji Rugby Referees Association is poised to honor the unsung heroes of rugby with its inaugural Awards Night, representing a significant development in the elevation of officiating standards in Fiji. Scheduled for the 20th of next month at the Vodafone Arena in Laucala Bay, Suva, this event aims to spotlight the tireless commitment of referees who ensure fairness and integrity in the sport at all levels.
Chairman Patemo Waqa expressed the special significance of the event, stating that it marks a pivotal moment in recognizing referees’ essential contributions to Fiji’s rugby success. After a year filled with local and regional tournaments, Waqa believes it is only fitting to dedicate a day to celebrate the achievements of these vital members of the rugby community. He emphasized, “We want to uplift our referees to meet international standards and ensure they are recognized as an essential part of Fiji’s rugby success.”
The Awards Night is underpinned by the support of the Fiji Rugby Union and the Fiji Sports Council, highlighting a concerted effort to cultivate a new generation of referees capable of officiating at elite competitions, including Super Rugby and international test matches. With 12 categories set to be awarded, the event promises to be a comprehensive celebration of the refereeing fraternity.
This initiative aligns with the increasing recognition for officials across other sports in Fiji, notably demonstrated recently by celebrations surrounding the Fiji Football Referees Association’s 70th anniversary. At that event, notable figures, including Deputy Prime Minister Professor Biman Prasad, paid tribute to the critical roles that referees play across different sports, underscoring their dedication and the improvements in the welfare of referees in Fiji.
With the forthcoming Awards Night for rugby, there is a hopeful outlook for the future of officiating in Fiji, as such recognition efforts encourage greater participation and elevate the standard of refereeing across the sport. As the rugby community unites to celebrate its referees, it fosters a spirit of appreciation and respect that is essential for the progression of the sport.
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