Bermuda’s two teams are in action on the opening day of the Rugby Americas North Sevens at Larry Gomes Stadium in Trinidad & Tobago today.

The men are the first to take to the field against Mexico at 9.22am local time before they face Canada at 1pm. Barbados will the first opponents for the women’s team at 11.56am before they take on the host nation at 3.34pm.

Tomorrow, the men square off with Barbados, while the women will play Jamaica before taking on Guyana.

The men’s team finished fifth in the competition in 2024 after beating Cayman Islands 10-5 in the Plate final but will be looking to go one better this year, with a top-four finish guaranteeing a qualifying spot at the Central American and Caribbean Games

Jason Hendrie, the Bermuda Rugby Football Union rugby operations director, who has travelled as team manager, believes Bermuda’s players are ready to deliver strong performances.

“We’re ready to show exactly what we can do,” Hendrie said.

“Preparation has been strong, the energy is high and the boys are fired up to compete with Mexico and Canada.

“We know the challenge ahead is massive, but this group is ready to go for it and excited to prove what we can do on the big stage.”

The women are making a return to regional competition after a two-year absence. Coach Andy Crichton has a number of the squad playing rugby overseas, and believes that factor can make a huge difference.

Gillian Cross, the women’s team manager, has expressed excitement about making a return to international competition.

“After two years away, we are excited to see the girls back,” she said.

“What we hope for is simple, that they play with heart, pride and real intent. Most importantly, we want them to have fun, trust their training and enjoy every moment of the experience.

“No matter the result, stepping out there together is already a win.”

Veteran player, Kelli Nusum, who coached the former Bermuda Longtails Girls Academy before the Covid-19 pandemic, is eager to get back into the international scene.

“Tomorrow gives us the opportunity to put our knowledge into action and unite as a cohesive team, she said.

“With our diverse experiences and unique strengths, each of us has the chance to excel at our own levels and contribute to the team. If, at the end of the day, everyone feels proud knowing they gave their best, it will be a successful day.”