Antonio Pierce's grandmother says she is happy her grandson has made his dream come true, despite not really understanding the game he plays.

Gwynith Burrows will be rooting for her New York Giants linebacker grandson to win on Super Bowl Sunday, even though she won't be attending the game.

Mr. Pierce is the first Bermudian to play in the prestigious event and is the second Bermudian behind Ralph (Rocky) Thompson to wear a Giants uniform.

The linebacker, whose father Cleo Burrows lives in Southampton, will now attempt to ruin the New England Patriots perfect season to claim Super Bowl XLII at the University of Phoenix Stadium in Arizona.

Mrs. Burrows said Antonio was a very quiet, easy going child and says he has not changed.

She said he would come down to visit from his home in California every summer and even went to summer camp at what is now TN Tatem Middle School.

She says she believes his interest in football began when he would come to Bermuda for the summer. "He might have played it before but I know he used to like it when he was here."

Although she has never seen her grandson play live and admits to not understanding the game, she does watch him on TV quite regularly and says she can see him better that way.

"I haven't seen him play live. It's a bit too much for me. But my children go."

Ms Burrows, who last saw Antonio early last year, says she spoke to him on Sunday when he was packing to get ready to leave for Arizona.

She said: "I'm very happy for him. That's what he had in his mind and he made so it so I'm very glad he did. I know he's excited."

Ms Burrows, who has lived in Southampton for the past 60 years, says all she can do is wish her grandson all the best as he plays the game of his life.

Her words of wisdom for aspiring athletes: "If they make up their mind to do something they want to do, just stick with it."

Giants' road mission: Page 18