Fiji’s recent elevation to Tier-One rugby is creating new challenges for not only the players and coaches but also the referees who play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity and pace of each match. As the pressure mounts with this new status, Fiji Rugby is focusing on enhancing officiating standards from grassroots levels all the way to international competitions.
James Bolabiu, the High Performance Referees Manager for Fiji Rugby, emphasizes that to compete effectively against Tier-One nations, referees must also meet a high level of competency. “For our team to perform at a very high level, we also need good referees who officiate them from grassroots right up to international level, so our players are well versed with the laws,” Bolabiu stated.
Bolabiu’s responsibility includes ensuring that Fiji’s referees align with the expectations typical of a Tier-One country. He acknowledges the essential role referees play in the sport, remarking, “Referees are the unsung heroes of the game; without a referee, a rugby match will never be the same.”
Furthermore, he highlights the need to expand the pool of qualified referees as part of a broader effort to enhance Fiji’s high-performance rugby systems and ensure compliance with global standards. This proactive approach not only improves the competitiveness of Fiji Rugby but also bolsters the integrity of the sport overall.
As Fiji embraces its new status, these initiatives signal a commitment to cultivating a strong foundation in officiating that is essential for the nation’s rugby aspirations on the world stage.