THE Suva Rugby Referees Association will wear a fresh look at this year’s 50th edition of the Fiji Bitter Marist 7s, running onto the field in newly sponsored uniforms at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva this week.
The new jersey have been provided by TISA Insurance, marking a timely boost for match officials ahead of one of the country’s premier rugby sevens tournaments. Suva Rugby Referees Association president Josaia Vakatavitavi expressed his gratitude during the official handover in Suva yesterday.
“We are very humbled and quite fortunate that TISA Insurance, through its CEO David Chan, has come on board to sponsor the Suva Rugby Referees Association with two sets of uniforms,” Vakatavitavi said.
He added that the new gear would serve as a major morale booster for referees, who have gone without proper uniforms for a long period of time.
“It will make our referees look smart and presentable on the field, something we have lacked for a very long time.
“TISA Insurance has sponsored two full sets of uniforms, from socks to jerseys and muscle vests.”
As the Marist 7s celebrates its 50th anniversary this week, the association will also mark the milestone by officiating matches in their new uniforms.
Chan acknowledged the vital role referees play in the game, describing them as custodians of rugby.
“We hope that when you wear these jerseys, you feel supported — not just by your association, but by TISA Insurance as well,” Chan said.
The Marist 7s starts tomorrow and will finish on Saturday.
