Fijian duo to ref on World Sevens Series

Two Fijian rugby referees have been selected to officiate on the upcoming World Sevens Series.

Kaveni Talemaivavalagi and Tevita Rokovereni have been named in a new-look panel of whistleblowers to referee on the men's circuit, which kicks off in Dubai in December.

27 year old teacher Kaveni Talemaivavalagi started refereeing while still in sixth form at Laucala Bay High School but has built up a lot of sevens experience over the past decade.

"Here at home we have lots of Sevens tournaments going on...I refereed in the Fiji International Sevens, the Oceania Sevens in Auckland and Sydney, in the Commonwealth Youth Games in Samoa, the Pacific Games in Papua New Guinea, the Mini Games in Wallis and Futuna," he said.

Talemaivavalagi said he had spoken with the selectors, led by World Rugby High Performance Sevens Referee Manager Paddy O'Brien, and thanked God and the team Fiji Rugby community for helping him to earn the opportunity to perform at the elite level.

"(Former World Series referee) James Bolabiu has done a lot for Fiji Rugby and also in the World Series and I think he has painted a good picture for all of us upcoming referees to referee in the World Series.

"I thank Paddy and his selectors for selecting and having faith in him and also in me to officiate in this level and also I thank the FRU executives for nominating me and supporting me in my refereeing career," he said.

"To the CEO of Fiji Rugby, the referee manager and all the management in Fiji Rugby Union that have contributed in some way or another for my achievement in this officiating.

"And I thank James - he is always here with us and supporting us and giving advice on what are the things that need to be done and what needs to be improved."

Kaveni Talemaivavalagi said he's been told he will get his chance at the Wellington and Sydney legs of the World Series early next year.

Photo: World Rugby