Vaibhavi Deo of Koronivia, Nausori, a Year 9 student at Adi Cakobau School, has created history by being the first Fijian of Indian descent to step into the world of rugby union refereeing.
Vaibhavi was appointed by the Fiji Rugby Union Referees High Performance Unit to assist during the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua versus Western Force match in the Shop N Save Super Rugby Competition in Lautoka yesterday.
She had the opportunity to be alongside World Rugby referees Damon Murphy and Jordan Way - an experience that marked the official start of her journey.
Vaibhavi expressed her gratitude to Fiji Rugby Union’s Elite Referee Manager, James Bolabiu, for recognising her potential and providing her with this opportunity.
She told fijivillage News that she is also grateful for the opportunity to learn from top-level referees like Damon Murphy and Jordan Way, who took the time to guide and motivate her.
Her dream is to become a Tier 1 rugby union referee, and yesterday marked the beginning of that journey.
A passionate follower of rugby from a young age, Vaibhavi has spent countless weekends watching matches, whether it’s Super Rugby games or international test matches.
A supporter of the Hurricanes and the All Blacks, her love for the game naturally evolved into a desire to officiate.
Inspired by top referees, particularly Angus Gardner - her favourite, Vaibhavi began closely following the craft of refereeing.
She now aspires to become the first female Fijian of Indian descent to reach Tier 1 level and one day officiate an All Blacks match.
Vaibhavi says for her, rugby has become an integral part of her life - it is now her passion.
She says yesterday’s opportunity was unbelievable.
Vaibhavi says she was doing her schoolwork one evening last week when her dad called her to talk.
She says when he told her that Bolabiu had written about her appointment, she was lost for words.
Vaibhavi says from watching rugby on TV from early childhood to stepping onto the field with world-class referees was an incredible moment she will always cherish.
She adds that the overwhelming messages and encouragement she has received will continue to motivate her as she works towards her dream.
Vaibhavi also acknowledged the unwavering support of her parents, Vashna Lata and Dhanjay Deo, who have always encouraged her to dream big.
Dhanjay is the former News Editor of Navtarang and Radio Sargam.
Vaibhavi says her parents have always told her that nothing is impossible, that even girls can achieve anything, and there should be no limits to our dreams.
Dhanjay says it was a very proud moment for them.
He says he and his wife, Vashna had tears in their eyes as Vaibhavi ran into the field.
