Rasivhenge praise local referees

The inaugural Fiji Rugby Referee Awards (FRRA) night is a platform that gives recognition to the hardworking local and international referees from Fiji.

This was the gist of FRRA special guest Rasta Rasivhenge. 

“Fiji Rugby refereeing has gone into an extend where its phenomenon because of James Bolabiu,” he said.

“He (Bolabiu) has re-orchestrated development and its all about grassroots and giving people opportunity.”

Rasivhenge indicated that he was honoured to be part of the special occasion for referee’s in Fiji.

Rasta Rasivhenge at the Vodafone Arena, Suva on December 20, 2025.

Photo: Ioane Asioli

“It’s the greatest thing I’ve experienced in my life and it’s probably the biggest in the world,” he said.

“It’s all about opportunity in the World series and Fiji develops a lot of potential refereees at grassroots.”

Rasivhenge adds that the world rugby tournaments like the HSBC 7s series and WXV is an opportunity for Fijian referees to gain exposure.

“In refereeing, you’ll learn leadership skills and you can be a better person,” he said.

“You can inspire the world and travel the world.”

Rasivhenge adds that young people should grab a whistle and begin their refereeing career.