Former Chicago Bears wide receiver Rickey Watts believes Antonio Pierce's presence in the Super Bowl could pave a path for young Bermudians to follow in his footsteps.

With Pierce's fame soaring to unprecedented heights, CedarBridge Academy athletic director Watts reckons more sons of the soil will be making an impact in the NFL before too long.

"Antonio playing in the Super Bowl is a huge shot in the arm for Bermuda," said Texan, Watts. "It's special because it will inspire these children and opens up an avenue for them.

"There are a lot of great athletes in Bermuda, and plenty at CedarBridge, who may not have body types suited for soccer or cricket, so football could be for the sport for them."

Watts, who starred for the Bears from 1979-1983, has monitored the Giants linebackers form closely this season and believes Pierce is one of the best in his position.

"To reach the Super Bowl is a phenomenal achievement," said Watts. "Regardless of whether you are from Bermuda or the US, the Super Bowl doesn't come along very often.

"Thankfully my wife is an NFL fan and she lets me watch the games so I've been following Antonio's progress all season.

"He's a tremendous athlete. Last Sunday I saw him take on two guys at the same time in a crucial play for the Giants. He's one of the fittest linebackers in the NFL and I would say he's one of the top ten in his position."

Watts, who holds the Bears record for receiving the longest touchdown pass, believes the Giants defence, captained by Pierce, could be the difference between the two teams.

"It's not all about the New England Patriots for me," he said. "You have to recognise the skill of the Giants, especially their defence and Antonio is a massive part of that. He'll be a huge factor for them. I really think it could be a close game."

Married to a Bermudian, Watts has lived on the Island for the past five years and wants more local youngsters to become fluent in the game he loves.

"I've been on the Island for five years and I'm married to a wonderful Bermudian woman," he said. "I love the place. If Antonio has any sense he'll come back here and settle down once he's retired."

Along with former NFL players Ron Davenport and Dale Butler, Watts will be running a training camp later this year as part of a youth scheme called Lead Bermuda.