Dozens of Bermudians have sent messages wishing Bermudian linebacker for the New York Giants, Antonio Pierce good luck as he gets ready to play in Super Bowl XLII tomorrow.

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

Mr. Pierce, whose father Cleo Burrows lives in Southampton, is attempting to ruin the New England Patriots' perfect season come Super Bowl Sunday at the University of Phoenix Stadium in Arizona. (See good luck messages in story, Go Antonio Go)

Among the messages pouring in, Aquil Richardson's mother, Shahida Abdur-Rahim, is sending her well wishes to the young man who was good friends with her son.

She explained her son met the linebacker when they were preteens in summer camp and said they were very close friends up until recently. She added they boys were in and out of each other's homes during the summers and would often go to Mr. Pierce's father's home to go swimming at the dock.

"I know they were very close. He would bring him to the house. They kept in touch over the years", she said.

"Every time Antonio would come to Bermuda, he would look up Aquil."

Ms Abdur-Rahim said Mr. Pierce had even invited Mr. Richardson to come to New York to visit him, but her son was on stop list and unable to make the trip.

She said her son was "very proud" of Mr. Pierce and was always excited when he came to visit him on his trips to Bermuda.

"I really wish him well. I'm very proud of him and hope he keeps in touch."

In addition to Ms Abdur-Rahim, whose son was shot dead on Boxing Day, Bermudians across the Island and throughout the US and Canada sent in messages wishing Mr. Pierce the best of luck.

"A new spectator to the sport" said: "I just wanted to share my thoughts surrounding the excitement of Mr. Antonio Pierce and his participation in the Super Bowl. "I must admit, I have never followed American football. However, since learning of Antonio Pierce playing for the Giants, I am ecstatic that a Bermudian will be participating in such a prestigious event.

"Although I don't know Antonio and had never heard of him before, I am so proud of his accomplishments and wish him all the best in his career. What an honour for Antonio and Bermuda!

"His achievement is exemplary and there is no question that I will be supporting Antonio and the Giants."

Andrew Correia said: "Antonio, I will be behind you 100%. You guys CAN do it. Hit them with all you got and shake them up. I don't think the Patriots realise what a good team the Giants are. You have already made many Bermudians proud. All the best mate, KICK SOME ASS!"

Craig and Alice Curtis, Bermudians living in the "Big Apple, added: "As Bermudians living abroad in New York for many years now, we are exceptionally delighted to see Antonio and the Giants make it to the Superbowl.

"Although we don't know Antonio personally, we feel well connected to him and hope he and the entire team feel the love on February 3.

"It definitely makes us feel proud and at the end of the day knowing he is Bermudian and will represent in a positive way. What a fine example to lead by. There will be no greater feeling then when the Giants win the Superbowl XLII."