Fiji’s rugby referees are set to receive well-deserved recognition at the inaugural Fiji Rugby Referees Awards, scheduled for Saturday, December 20, at the Vodafone Arena in Suva. This significant event aims to honor the dedication and hard work of referees across the nation, with 12 distinct categories, including both male and female Referee of the Year awards, up for recognition.
The announcement of the awards ceremony was made during a press conference held at the Fiji Rugby Union’s office, where Talimo Waqa, chairman of the Fiji Rugby Referees Association, expressed his gratitude to the Fiji Rugby Union for supporting this celebratory initiative. Waqa referred to the referees’ community as a “close-knit family” consisting of 23 associations nationwide, and he highlighted the necessity of recruiting more referees to meet the existing demand for officiating at rugby matches. He remains optimistic that the awards will motivate potential referees to join the ranks.
The Fiji Sports Council has joined as a major partner for the event, with acting chief executive Gilbert Vakalalabure expressing enthusiasm about collaborating on this initiative, as it aligns with their mission of boosting sporting development in Fiji.
Moreover, the organizing committee has extended an invitation for sponsors to participate in this landmark event. Notably, Movements International Fiji has already committed to supporting the awards, establishing an encouraging start for corporate engagement in recognizing the contributions of referees.
This upcoming ceremony not only serves to celebrate the achievements of rugby officials but also aims to inspire a new generation of referees, ensuring they are adequately prepared to elevate officiating standards to meet both local and international competitive demands. The celebration of referees aligns with a broader trend in Fiji to enhance the overall recognition and respect for officials in multiple sports, reflecting a promising shift in the sporting landscape of the nation.
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