Volunteering in the America’s Cup through the First Mates programme presented by XL Catlin, is a once in a lifetime opportunity for residents to be on the front line with the America’s Cup.

Whether you are an avid community volunteer or it is your first time, you do not need prior experience to get involved. Becoming a First Mate is your chance to learn a lot about the 35th America’s Cup as well as network and make fantastic connections.

Here are three reasons why you might consider becoming a First Mate:

1) This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for you to be involved in a massive global sporting event. You will see first-hand what is involved in creating a world-class experience and it is a rare opportunity to be part of such a large and important support team. Even if you are not 100 per cent sure about your availability or area of interest, register anyway before the November 30 deadline, it would be a shame to miss out.

2) This is a unique opportunity that allows Bermudians to contribute first hand to the event’s success, be a part of the excitement and develop new skills and gain invaluable experience and connections. If you are out of work, jump on-board because you never know who you will meet and what may come of those new connections. First Mates will be on the water as marshals, in the media centre helping overseas media, in the VIP lounges catering to guests and much more.

3) For the 35th America’s Cup we welcome the world to Bermuda. What better way than having Bermuda’s famous charm at the forefront? We are known for being the friendliest, most hospitable people in the world, so why not show that off next summer during AC35? Bermudians have the power to make this the best America’s Cup event ever and by volunteering we can step up to the challenge.

The First Mates programme is looking for up to 1,000 volunteers to play an integral role in welcoming the world to Bermuda in 2017 for the 35th America’s Cup which starts on May 26 and runs through the end of June 2017.

If you are passionate, energetic and talented, and would like to become an ambassador of the America’s Cup, visit www.americascup.com/volunteers and register your interest.

If you’re still undecided about whether or not to get involved, here are some of the roles we need filled for what will be a truly awesome experience.

Guest Services — You love engaging with people and you are friendly, outgoing, and service-oriented. Support the Guest Services team by providing a courteous, informative and helpful service to spectators. Roles include welcoming visitors, informing them about activities in the America’s Cup Village and guiding them to locations. Multiple languages are an asset.

Hospitality — You are friendly, outgoing and a service enthusiast, always going the extra mile to create value and ensure satisfaction for guests! Support the Hospitality team to deliver a smooth and efficient hospitality programme for all guests, helping them enjoy a first-class experience.

Media Operations Support — Would you like to learn from the inside how the media work during an international sporting event? Would you enjoy interacting with media representatives from around the world? If you are passionate about all things related to media and communications then support the Media Operations team to ensure the smooth and efficient running of the Media Centre. Multiple languages an asset.

On-Water Operations Support — You have a strong knowledge of local waters in Bermuda and prior experience on the water of sailing, racing and / or powerboat driving. You also possess excellent interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to report issues. Support the On the Water Operations team to ensure the safety of spectators and competitors, helping ensure spectator boats are in the right place on the water. There are also opportunities to join the Shore Crew, for those with knowledge of anchors and chains who have ability to handle weights and heavy equipment.

The deadline for registration is November 30 and more detailed information about your assignments will be available from February next year.