Lavenia Racaca was overcome with emotion as she received the prestigious title of Female Referee of the Year during the inaugural Fiji Rugby Referees Awards, which took place in Suva on Saturday. The award, presented by Miss Fiji, Dr. Peggy Ravusiro, signifies an important milestone in Racaca’s journey as a referee.
In an emotional moment, Racaca shared her surprise at being recognized, reflecting on her thoughts of her mother, who was unable to be present due to an injury. She expressed deep gratitude to her family and friends for their unwavering support throughout her refereeing career.
The ceremony at the Vodafone Arena was not just a celebration of Racaca’s accomplishments but a tribute to the challenging path she has navigated to achieve success. She touched upon her upbringing and the sacrifices made to reach this pivotal moment in her life.
Racaca dedicated her award to her family, friends, and her faith, all of whom have played a crucial role in her journey. Looking ahead, she emphasized her commitment to mentoring the next generation of referees, focusing on their growth and overcoming challenges they might encounter.
Her transition from playing for the Marist Seahawks to becoming a referee was inspired by guidance from her uncle, Samuela Racaca. This decision propelled her into a remarkable career, culminating in her Test debut on May 26, 2023, during the Oceania Women’s Rugby Championship between Samoa and Tonga. Since then, she has officiated at high-profile events, including her scheduled participation in the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris and the HSBC SVNS series.
Lavenia Racaca’s story is a powerful reminder of perseverance and the impact of support within the sports community. Her recent recognition not only celebrates her individual achievements but also inspires future referees in Fiji and internationally.