In a landmark event for the officiating community, the Fiji Rugby Referees Association (FRRA) will host its inaugural annual Awards Night on the 20th of November at the Vodafone Arena in Suva.
The gala event is designed to honour the immense dedication and contribution of referees throughout the 2025 domestic season. It will also recognise those who represented Fiji on regional and international stages, officiating matches beyond the nation’s shores.
Beyond celebrating the referees, the evening is a crucial opportunity to show appreciation to the sponsors whose support has been instrumental in referee development and welfare across the demanding 2025 rugby calendar.
FRRA Chairman, Mr. Talemo Waqa, emphasized the significance of the event, stating it is vital for recognising the commitment of the officials who are integral to the sport.
“I take this opportunity to thank Fiji Rugby and Fiji Sports Council for saying yes to partnering for the first ever Fiji Rugby Referees Association Awards,” Mr. Waqa shared.
He added, “This is an event in which we would like to honor our referees and match officials who are always there – they take the brunt of all [complaints] especially from the losing team, but we cannot have any rugby match without the referees.”
Mr. Waqa highlighted that the awards night is particularly special as it marks a new chapter for Fijian rugby. As Fiji Rugby aspires for Tier One status, he noted that elevating officiating standards is a key work in progress to meet that recognised level.
While grateful for the support of the Fiji Sports Council (FSC), Mr. Waqa confirmed that the Association is still seeking more sponsors to make the December event truly memorable.
Echoing the sentiment of support, Fiji Sports Council CEO, Mr. Gilbert Vakalalabure, affirmed their commitment to sporting development.
“Whichever sporting body out there, we are always there to help and we are grateful to be part of pathways, and in this instance we are supporting the growth of Rugby Referees,” Mr. Vakalalabure said.
Adding to the chorus of approval, James Bolabiu, a former top referee and the current Rugby Referees High Performance Manager, stressed the importance of inspiring the next generation.
“When I joined this role, part of my role was to elevate the quality of rugby in the country,” Bolabiu stated. “And creating events as such to create interests and recruit more referees and not only that but also recognize their contribution to the sport in the country.”
Ticket details for the Fiji Rugby Referees Association Awards Night will be made available to the public soon.