Fiji’s Tevita Rokovereni has made history by officiating the men’s final at the Vancouver 7s tournament, marking a significant achievement in his nine-year refereeing career. This momentous event is particularly notable as it is the first time in 16 years that a Fijian referee has officiated in such a pivotal role, the last being James Bolabiu at the Hong Kong 7s in 2009.
Bolabiu, now the High-Performance Referee Manager for Fiji Rugby, expressed immense pride in Rokovereni’s accomplishment. He highlighted how the Fiji Rugby Union’s investment in the High-Performance Match Officials program has played a crucial role in supporting the development of referees and fostering talent. This milestone not only reflects Rokovereni’s hard work and dedication but also serves as a source of inspiration for both current and aspiring referees in Fiji.
During the final, Argentina triumphed over South Africa with a score of 19-12. Meanwhile, the Fijiana 7s team faced disappointment in the women’s cup final, where they were defeated by New Zealand 7-41. This juxtaposition of outcomes illustrates the fluctuating fortunes of Fijian rugby on the international stage.
The importance of Rokovereni’s achievement cannot be overstated, as it reaffirms the effectiveness of ongoing efforts to cultivate skilled referees in Fiji. Bolabiu expressed hope for a future where more Fijian referees will have the opportunity to officiate at the highest levels of the sport, further elevating Fiji’s presence in the global rugby community.
This historic moment not only celebrates Rokovereni’s personal journey but also highlights the collective achievements of Fijian rugby officiating, showcasing a bright path ahead for young talents inspired by these developments. The commitment to referee development underscores a hopeful and promising future for Fijian rugby as it continues to gain respect and recognition on the world stage.
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