The Fiji Rugby Referees Union is making proactive strides to cultivate a greater number of female referees, taking inspiration from the notable career of Lavenia Racaca. The aim is to enable these women not only to officiate locally but also at international events such as the Super W competition.
Under the leadership of High-Performance Referee Manager James Bolabiu, the Union is providing specialized training and support tailored to equip local female referees for success on the global rugby stage. Johnson Lee, a representative of the Fiji Rugby Referees Union, emphasized that Racaca’s success serves as a beacon of motivation for aspiring female referees. He stated, “The plan, the biggest target for women in refereeing, is to have many more women apart from Lavenia Racaca make it big in international rugby.”
Currently, out of a total of 390 referees across Fiji, 80 are women, showcasing a growing interest and opportunity for females in this domain. Lee affirmed that several women have already participated in workshops that are essential for their professional development within officiating.
This initiative aligns with broader efforts within the region to promote women’s involvement in rugby, evident from the Fiji National University and Fiji Rugby Union’s recent collaborative projects focused on increasing accessibility to officiating roles. Such initiatives reflect a commitment to nurturing talent and providing pathways for aspiring female referees.
Furthermore, the positive momentum surrounding women’s rugby in Fiji, including increased participation and recognition of female officials, suggests a promising future where women can genuinely thrive in rugby, both on and off the field.
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