There has been a significant increase in the number of female referees in rugby union in Fiji, as young women increasingly pursue officiating as a viable long-term career. The breakthrough of Lavenia Racaca on the global stage has been instrumental in inspiring this positive trend.
Racaca made her debut at the World Rugby SVNS Series in 2024, emerging as a powerful role model for Fijian women in the sport. Her achievements have encouraged many young women to pick up the whistle, redefining officiating as a respected and essential part of rugby rather than just a supporting role.
This rising interest was evident at the recent Fiji Bitter Labasa 7s, where internationally recognized referee Rasta Rasivhenge led refereeing workshops aimed at fostering grassroots development. The sessions saw a robust turnout, showcasing the enduring popularity of rugby in Fiji and the eagerness among participants to engage with the sport beyond merely playing.
Rasivhenge highlighted the noticeable increase in female participation in refereeing roles across the nation. He described this trend as a positive reflection of rugby’s inclusive values and the expanding opportunities for women in the sport. “The females that I’ve worked with in the workshops and seen around Suva and other parts of the country have been phenomenal. There is a lot of talent coming through,” Rasivhenge stated.
He emphasized that Fiji’s rich rugby culture provides local referees with unique advantages, as early exposure to the game fosters a deeper understanding and enhanced confidence. With trailblazers like Racaca paving the way, the future for female referees in Fiji looks brighter than ever, promising a strong and inclusive pathway ahead in rugby officiating.
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