Top ref prepares for world stage
FIJI’S top rugby referee Tevita Rokovereni is aiming for higher grounds in rugby’s whistle control.
The Namara, Tailevu native, who is a firefighter with the National Fire Authority, is a guest referee at this weekend’s 2nd Fiji Bitter Malomalo 7s tournament at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka.
The tournament started yesterday.
While the Fiji 7s teams are camping in Sigatoka for the Toulouse 7s in France in the coming leg of the World Rugby Sevens Series,
Setareki Ravato of Sydney Nailaga attacks against the Stingrays at the Lawaqa Park yesterday.
Rokovereni is looking beyond the series to show the world that Fijian referees can also officiate at top global tournaments.
“I am excited to be part of the Fiji Bitter Malomalo 7s,” Rokovereni, who has officiated in past series’ legs such as New Zealand, Hong Kong, Australia, the Commonwealth Games 2018 at Gold Coast, and the 2020 Japan Olympics, said.
“Rugby 7s in Fiji has improved to another level, especially in the Fiji Bitter 7s. The players are improving and it has raised the standard of the game.”
Rokovereni of Matamaivere Village,
says is inspired by the inclusion of Fiji in the Super Rugby Pacific competition.
“It is a big plus for us to be included in the competition. It does not only benefit the Fijian Drua, but everyone who is involved and Fiji as a country. As a referee, this is a chance for us to improve and try top level competitions such as Super Rugby.
“I will continue to work hard. Right now, I am concentrating on my fitness and preparations for the Commonwealth Games. I have been invited and I am proud to represent Fiji.”
He is with the Fiji 7s team during their camp at Sigatoka before the national side leaves for France.
“This is a good team. There is a mixture of experienced and young players. They have a coach in Ben Gollings, who understands the players and is very professional in his coaching style. Then Viliame Satala is a respected figure in rugby especially with young players.
“This team under Gollings and Satala will take Fiji to greater heights.”
The Fiji Barbarians won 35-5 against Malomalo, 40-0 against Vusama, and the Fiji Barbarians beat Fiji Warriors 19-14.
The tournament ends today.