The Fiji National Rugby League in partnership with National Rugby League will be hosting a referee’s seminar on Friday at the Vodafone Arena in Suva.

FNRL acting referee co-ordinator Jone Wesele said yesterday it is an important seminar in terms of developing our referees.

“This is in a way enables FNRL to invest more on the development of our officials especially when it comes to officiating a big game,” he said.

“We are grateful for such events as we try to build our referee’s association as far as rugby league is concerned. Without the help of NRL, I believe that we would not come this far.”

Wesele said this is a way FNRL is looking into investing more on the development of referees as they consider the growth of the sport.

NRL development officer John Lewis said this is not a short-term process as this would take three to four years.

“The referees have improved immensely from last year and we want this to improve even more as this will be a first ever Level 2 referee’s course where all referees will be learning a lot. We are taking one step at a time but the best part for us is that we are all on the same page and working hard together.”

The whole-day seminar will feature top NRL referee Gavin Badger and Ben Millington- who are going to be the main speakers.

Wesele said they are also calling on female referees to participate in the seminar.

Edited by Leone Cabenatabua

Feedback:  paulini.ratulailai@fijisun.com.fj