Indo-Fijian teen sets sights on becoming top rugby referee

Thirteen-year-old Vaibhavi Deo aspires to become one of the world's top rugby referees. Hailing from a Fijian-Indian background, Deo currently officiates rugby matches under the Suva Rugby Union in Fiji's capital, Suva. Her family believes she has already broken through barriers for Fijians of Indian descent in the sport.

Deo expressed her ambition to become an international Tier 1 referee, officiating prestigious matches like those involving the All Blacks. She was invited to Eden Park by New Zealand Rugby and Rugby Australia, where she observed ref Nick Berry's game and learned firsthand how a referee manages a match and interacts with players.

Influenced by her father, a fan of the Hurricanes and All Blacks, Deo developed an early interest in rugby. This fascination led her to closely watch matches on weekends, noting aspects like referee decisions and techniques. Her favorite referee, award-winning Australian Angus Gardner, inspired her to pursue refereeing.

Her father, Dhanjay, a journalist and Hurricanes fan, supports her dream wholeheartedly. The family believes Deo's passion for rugby and her determination to officiate will lead her to success. They recognize that being a Fijian of Indian descent in the refereeing world is an uphill battle, but they are confident she will overcome obstacles and shatter barriers for other girls in their community.