While North Village captured the coveted FA Cup for the 12th time on Sunday, Rhys Pedro achieved his own personal milestone by becoming the youngest match official in the men’s FA Cup final at the age of 14.

Pedro and Clinton Hayward were assistants to Amaury Majors, with another up-and-coming referee, Isaiah O’Brien, the fourth official.

“When I was first informed of being selected as one of the officials for the FA Cup final, I was initially nervous, however, it soon gave way to excitement and a feeling of pride,” Pedro said.

“Standing in front of the crowd before the game, I was overwhelmed with a mixture of pride, fear and excitement, especially as it was my first time officiating at Flora Duffy Stadium.

“As the game began, all of those feelings of doubt and nervousness slipped away and I focused solely on the game.

“If I had to give any advice to other young people that were thinking of trying out officiating, it would be to ignore all the people who doubt you and instead focus on improving day by day, bit by bit and you will succeed.

“There is a lot to learn and remember, but Bermuda has some amazing instructors and fellow referees who are always willing to help provide guidance.

“You also pick up a lot of useful life skills, such as teamwork, communication and being able to confidently make big decisions.”

According to the Bermuda Football Association, Pedro has been a match official for only two years and started officiating in the men’s league during this season.

“Pedro is a graduate of the programme at Warwick Academy, organised by BFA in conjunction with the school,” the BFA said.

“The programme offered training through international instructors. Since receiving the initial qualification through that course, he has attended several additional courses offered through the BFA referee committee, with international Fifa assessors and mentors coming to the island.

“Rhys has already set his sights on being a centre referee in a First Division game within the next year and qualifying as a Fifa-listed official.”