Rugby refs make a mark

The Fiji Times - Wednesday, April 09, 2008 3:07 PM

RUGBY referee Napolioni Locoloco says officiating at the Adelaide Sevens was a great learning experience which could open up a pathway for more locals getting international appointments.

Locoloco and Mikea Rokodrakia made their debut as touch and in goal judges during the International Rugby Board Sevens World Series last weekend.

The duo were part of the regional referees panel which attended a refresher workshop conducted by IRB referees head Paddy O’Brien in Nadi last month.

Both Locoloco and Rokodrakia matched the IRB required level of 12.5 during the workshop.

Locoloco said officiating at the Adelaide Sevens was an eye opener and a dream come true.

“We have achieved this through the initiative of the Fiji Rugby Union and its development unit,” Locoloco said.

“Albert Sandy and his group have done a lot in terms of lifting the standard of rugby refereeing in Fiji. It is certainly a dream for every referee to officiate at the international level. We were given this opportunity. Now the pathway is set for other referees to get international appointments.”

Both referees were given appointments in 13 matches.

Locoloco was the in goal judge during Fiji’s opening match against England.

“It was great to have three Fijians on the panel in Adelaide,” Locoloco said.

“This happened for the first time. James Bolabiu was guiding us. He has achieved a lot of respect as a referee. The trip was a learning experience.”

Bolabiu refereed the Hong Kong Sevens final between New Zealand and South Africa.

New Zealand won the Hong Kong title beating South Africa 26-12. However, the South Africans reversed scores in the final of the Adelaide tournament beating the Kiwis 15-7.