Tofilau Avii Hits Out at Parents and Supporters who Assaulted a Referee

2026-03-23 - 19:04

Samoa International Referee, Afoa Tofilau Avii Faalupega Magele, has hit out to defend a 16-year-old rugby assistant referee who was verbally abused and physically attacked during a school boy match last week. The young referee was an Assistant Match Official running as a linesman during the Avele College vs Aleipata College U16 boys rugby match last week. According to Afoa Tofilau, the young, enthusiastic referee was physically assaulted by parents and spectators. “Collared by a parent and punched by a spectator” the young match official then “fell to the ground” during the assault. Tofilau Avii says we must demand accountability and calls for zero-tolerance towards the abuse of officials. “This is NOT passion for the game,” writes Tofilau. “This is criminal behavior and a disgrace to our community.” “These young officials are learning, just like the players. Is this what we want youth sports to look like?” Samoa’s international representative referee who herself also a rugby coach, says the incident at last week’s school boy match is a wake-up call and it is time for action. “I coach my players to respect the referee – not just because I’m a referee too, but because I know that as a Coach, I am not perfect either.” Tofilau says this abuse by parents and supporters is making it difficult to recruit and maintain referees in Samoa. “To the ‘fans’ and parents who think this is acceptable: You are the reason refs are quitting in droves. We need to do better as a community. Sport is for the kids, not for grown adults to lose their humanity.” Tofilau offers encouragement to the young match official who was assaulted. “Keep your head held high.” “Your courage to step onto that field at such a young age is exactly what this game needs. We are all behind you!” The incident has led to strong reactions on social media from the community, with many calling out this behaviour as having no place in school sports. “Mataga le faatupu vevesi o nei matua i taaloga a fanau.” “These adults who create trouble at children’s games, instead of supporting and guiding them.” Tofilau confirms they are finalising a report and letter to be submitted to the Zone A Competition Committee for review of the incident and actions to follow.