Five Bermuda hopefuls are on a mission to turn professional with National Indoor Soccer League (NISL) champions Baltimore Blast.

Boulevard's Angelo Simmons, North Village's Logan Alexander, Somerset Eagles' Aquino Grant, Southampton Rangers' Aquino Grant and Devonshire Coolridge Durham have been set-up with trials by Blast player/coach, and Island Soccer League (ISL) commissioner, David Bascome.

The promising contingent will be put through their paces during Blast's pre-season try-outs next week and could also catch the eye of other NISL scouts who will be running the rule over the Bermuda five.

Apart from Alexander, who has just finished his studies abroad, the trialists all enjoyed standout performances for their respective ISL clubs last season and caught the eye of head honcho Bascome.

Bermuda under-23 international, Simmons, who is one of only two players to win successive ISL titles with the Storm, is excited about the opportunity to showcase his skills on a bigger stage.

"I'm very excited about the chance to go away and try to make it outside of Bermuda," said Simmons. "It's a reward for the guys from the ISL who played well and is a great opportunity.

"Obviously we will be trying to make the grade and get a deal of some sort and make a name for ourselves.

"The main thing is that you have to be fit, disciplined and just do what you have to do.

"You must work hard because there is always someone trying to do the same thing as we are, so the key will be working hard and doing what is necessary.

"Blazers won't be affected when I leave, we have enough depth and players capable of doing the job, so we will be alright."

Eagles new-boy Grant has made an impact early this season at White Hill Field, including scoring the winner against Dandy Town on Sunday to ensure his side stayed top of the Premier Division.

His Union team-mate Russell along with the Knights' Durham will also be given the opportunity win pro contracts at Blast. Both were selected for the 2009 ISL All-Star team.

Defender Alexander has taken a different route, having played at the University of Alabama-Birmingham (UAB).

He said he would love the chance to turn pro and follow in the footsteps of Bascome and John Barry Nusum, who plays for the Philadelphia KIXX.

"This is a great opportunity to have a chance to play professional," said Alexander. "David has full confidence in all five of us and we all have a chance of making it. Professional is professional whether it's indoor or outdoor.

"Everyone has seen how successful you can be playing indoor by looking at David's excellent career and where John Barry Nusum is today after playing indoor as well. This opportunity could open door for all of us.

"Playing in university has helped me grow as a player and I have learned so much more about the game from my coaches there and the players that were around me. I feel prepared for this opportunity, but now it's about giving my all and hoping for the best."