Premier Ewart Brown took time out from his daily schedule yesterday to salute Bermudian Super Bowl champion Antonio Pierce, whom he has described as a "distinguished man of excellence".

Pierce, the first Bermudian to appear in the Super Bowl and second local to slip on a New York Giants uniform, celebrated his team's recent upset win over New England Patriots in the Big Apple yesterday, with thousands lining the streets to catch a glimpse of their heroes.

Earlier this week Sports Minister El James declared Pierce as a "national hero" and a "role model" for others to follow.

Yesterday Premier Brown echoed his Minister's sentiments, telling The Royal Gazette: "Not only are we proud of him for winning the Super Bowl, but we're proud of the way he distinguished himself with his individual excellence on the field."

Sports Minister James has already hinted at the prospect of Government organising some sort of formal reception for Pierce when he decides to return to the birthplace of his father, Cleo Burrows, who resides in Southampton.

Government, however, has yet to divulge any details as such over the possibility of granting the New York Giant a formal gathering upon his return.

Sports Minister Mr. James said: "Antonio is a national hero at the moment and whenever he does decide to return to Bermuda we will give him the reception that he is due.

"I, like all of the Bermudians that watched the Super Bowl, had pride watching one of us play in one of the biggest sporting events on the sporting calendar."

Premier Brown, himself an avid sports fan, added: "I look forward to welcoming him back to Bermuda whenever he returns."