Tevita Rokovereni, Fiji’s top rugby referee, has recently returned from the Vancouver 7s tournament, marking a significant milestone in his career. He had the honor of officiating as the main referee in the prestigious HSBC SVNS Series tournament, an achievement he proudly describes as “massive.”
In reflecting on his journey, Rokovereni emphasized that hard work and determination are essential for anyone aspiring to become a referee. “I’ve always prepared myself,” he said, appreciating the opportunity to officiate in his first Cup Final at the HSBC SVNS Series.
Rokovereni’s success is also attributed to the mentorship of fellow referee James Bolabiu, who has played a vital role in his career. Bolabiu, who is now the High-Performance Referee Manager, expressed pride in Rokovereni’s accomplishments, emphasizing that it benefits Fiji’s refereeing community and serves as a benchmark for ongoing improvement in the field.
He noted that this milestone has a profound influence on Fiji’s recruitment and training initiatives for referees. Bolabiu observed increased engagement among local referees, which includes improved attendance and motivation—critical factors for the future of refereeing in Fiji and Oceania.
Rokovereni’s journey is not just a personal achievement; it symbolizes the potential for local talent to succeed on an international stage and serves as a source of inspiration for upcoming referees. It underscores the idea that with perseverance and a strong support system, success is within reach.
This accomplishment also aligns with the Fiji Rugby Union’s High-Performance Match Officials program, underscoring its role in nurturing talented referees. The celebration of Rokovereni’s achievement brings with it hope and optimism for the future of rugby officiating in Fiji.
Overall, Tevita Rokovereni’s success not only marks a personal victory but also highlights the collective advancement of Fijian rugby refereeing, illuminating a future filled with opportunities for aspiring referees to excel on international platforms.
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