Watisoni Naqau, a 21-year-old from Votua village in Lekutu, Bua, has earned the honor of being selected as one of the referees for the upcoming 2024 Oceania 7s tournament, scheduled for December 7-8 in Honiara, Solomon Islands. This prestigious event will provide Naqau with a significant platform to showcase his officiating skills on the international stage.
Naqau’s interest in rugby began in his childhood while attending Lekutu Primary and Secondary Schools. He developed a deep passion for the sport by watching local club games and closely following the referees to understand the nuances of officiating. Reflecting on his early experiences, Naqau shares, “I started watching the officials and following them around to learn how they managed the games.”
His potential did not go unnoticed, as the Fiji Rugby Referees Association invited him to participate in a refereeing certification course, which marked the beginning of his officiating journey. “I was fortunate to be invited by Fiji Rugby officials to undergo a course for certification in refereeing,” Naqau explained.
Inspired by Fijian referees who officiated at major events, Naqau aspired to follow in their footsteps. “I had always admired the referees from Fiji officiating overseas and set my mind on doing that as well in the not-so-distant future,” he remarked.
Since completing his certification, Naqau has gained valuable experience by officiating in local competitions such as the Vodafone Vanua Cup, Skipper Cup, and Fiji Bitter 7s series. These opportunities have not only helped him gain confidence but also have sharpened his skills, preparing him for the upcoming Oceania 7s tournament.
Grateful for the support he received, Naqau thanked the Fiji Rugby Referees Association, stating, “I thank them for believing in my ability and giving me the chance to move onto a regional competition. I look forward to even bigger opportunities in the near future.”
Naqau’s story exemplifies dedication, hard work, and the pursuit of dreams, as he ventures into an international arena where many aspire to be. His journey reflects the potential for growth and achievement in sports officiating, and it serves as an inspiration for young athletes in Fiji and beyond.
In summary, as Watisoni Naqau prepares to take on this important role at the Oceania 7s, his experiences, gratitude, and aspirations highlight his commitment and the bright future that lies ahead for him in the world of rugby officiating.
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