Talei Thomas accredited by World Rugby as the first female Match Commissioner in the Pacific

Fiji Rugby Union’s Talei Thomas has been accredited by World Rugby as the first female Match Commissioner in the Pacific.

FRU’s Logistic Officer says it was an emotional and exciting moment for her when she was told that she had passed the final assessment and would be accredited as the first female Match Commissioner not only in Fiji but also in the Pacific.

Thomas says while it was a tough and tiring journey, physically, mentally, and emotionally, she felt proud not only for her and her family but for Fiji Rugby as well.

She says this achievement shows that Fiji Rugby and Oceania Rugby including World Rugby has set a benchmark for Women in Fiji and around the Pacific and it should be an encouragement for them to pursue sports administrative opportunities available outside their comfort zone.

Thomas says her journey to become Match Commissioner started early this year.

She says when Skipper Cup Competition kicked off there was a need for more Match Commissioners, and she saw it as an opportunity to learn and become one.

She says with the encouragement from Operations Manager, Sale Sorovaki, Operations staff Ben Takubu and FRU CEO, John O’Connor she was able to start learning how to become a Match Commissioner from Round 1, the 25th of July 2020.

Thomas says she recently lost a cousin, and an uncle, both of whom she was very close to and she dedicates this achievement to them and only wishes that they were here to celebrate with her.

Fiji Rugby CEO John O’Connor says they are pleased that Talei has now come on board as a Match Commissioner and she has been doing a great job.

O’Connor says Fiji Rugby strongly believes in promoting women in rugby in Fiji and they are working really hard to create a rugby environment in Fiji that promotes equal opportunities and equity for their players, coaches, staff, and support staff.