Bermudians across the Island and throughout the US have poured in emails wishing Bermudian New York Giants linebacker, Antonio Pierce, good luck in his first Super Bowl appearance.

He is the first Bermudian to play in the prestigious event and is the second Bermudian behind Ralph (Rocky) Thompson to wear a Giants uniform. Mr. Pierce, 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 on February 3.

The Royal Gazette asked Bermudians to send their good luck messages for Mr. Pierce. The following are a few of those messages.

Pat Barboza said: "I am normally a 'died in the wool' Dan Marino fan, and thus the Dolphins, who don't seem to have faired very well since Dan retired.

"However, ever since I found out that Antonio's father and family are Bermudians, I have been a loyal fan of his and have watched every Giant game, pulling for them all the way, and they have won almost every game since I started watching!

"I am usually a very lucky person and perhaps some of my 'Luck' has rubbed off on them."

"We in Bermuda are so proud of Antonio, not only because of his determination to do his best, but I see that he has a camp for young boys and is helping the footballers of the future to achieve their potential. "I personally will be sending my 'vibes' for an upset win over the Patriots in the Superbowl and will be watching Antonio and his defence team as they try to pull off the 'Biggest Underdog Win' in NFL history!"

Dennis Paul also backs Mr. Pierce and said: "As a Bermudian who has lived in the United States of America for a number of years, I enthusiastically offer my best wishes to Mr. Pierce and the New York Giants in their quest for a Super Bowl title on February 3. All of us as Bermudians should see this as another example that hard work and perseverance does pay off."

Anne and Mike are also proud of Mr. Pierce and said: "It is always great and gives one a good feeling when one sees one who is born on the Island of Bermuda and who was fortunate enough to be brought to the USA and permitted to excel as a human being. Go New York Giants, Go Antonio Pierce, Go the U.S.A.!"

* Do you want to send a good luck message? E-mail mpearman@royalgazette.bm and we will forward them to Antonio.