Tears streamed down the cheeks of Lavenia Racaca’s face when she was named the Female Referee of the Year at the inaugural Fiji Rugby Referees Awards in Suva on Saturday.
Racaca received her award on stage from Miss Fiji, Dr. Peggy Ravusiro.
Speaking to the media after the night’s formalities had ended, Racaca shared how she reacted when her name was announced by Ravusiro.
“I didn’t expect to receive this award tonight,” Racaca said.
“When my name was called on stage, tears fell from my eyes as I thought of my mother who was unable to make it tonight since she’s injured so I told her I would attend the ceremony alone.”
In her moment of triumph, while celebrations and fun unfolded, her mind wandered into the past as she reflected on the long journey she went through to get to where she was now and receiving the highest award on Saturday at the Vodafone Arena in Suva.
“In that moment, my thoughts flashed with memories of my upbringing at home.”
She dedicated the award to key figures such as God, her family and friends that inspired her along the way in her rugby refereeing journey.
Following her achievement, she says her aim is to continue to helping the upcoming batch of referees, help develop them and attend to any weaknesses.
Racaca began her rugby refereeing journey when she put aside playing for the Marist Seahawks and sought the advice of her uncle Samuela Racaca in wanting to take up the profession.
She made her Test debut on May 26, 2023, when Samoa played Tonga in the Oceania Women’s Rugby Championship.
Since then, she has also officiated at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, France and the HSBC SVNS series.
