There has been a noticeable rise in the number of female referees in rugby union in Fiji, as more young women look to build a pathway into officiating and pursuing refereeing as a long-term career.
The emergence of Lavenia Racaca on the global stage has played a significant role in inspiring this shift.
Racaca made her debut on the World Rugby SVNS Series in 2024, becoming a powerful example of what is possible for Fijian women in refereeing. Her progress has encouraged many young women to step forward, take up the whistle and see officiating as more than just a supporting role in the game.
That growing interest was evident during the Fiji Bitter Labasa 7s, where international referee Rasta Rasivhenge conducted refereeing workshops as part of a grassroots development program.
The sessions attracted strong participation, highlighting the continued health of rugby in Fiji and the enthusiasm to be involved beyond playing.
What stood out most for Rasivhenge was the increasing number of females entering refereeing spaces across the country. He said the trend was a positive reflection of rugby’s inclusive values and the opportunities now available to women.
“The females that I’ve worked with in the workshops and seen around Suva and other parts of the country have been phenomenal,” Rasivhenge said.
“There is a lot of talent coming through.”
Rasivhenge added that Fiji’s deep-rooted rugby culture gives local referees an advantage, with exposure to the game from a young age helping to sharpen understanding and confidence.
With role models like Racaca leading the way, the pathway for female referees in Fiji continues to grow stronger.
