Bermuda’s male rugby team were not the only local outfit to enjoy success at the International Rugby 7s Tournament, with the Island’s women also putting their talent, toughness and guile on display.

A pair of sizeable wins over Rowan University combined with a similar number of hard-fought defeats against Colgate University were the team’s return, with the side having relished the chance to play meaningful matches against quality opponents.

With Title IX legislation continuing to force open doors via its requirement of gender equality in all aspects of publicly-funded education in the United States, the Bermuda Stars women took their moment to impress and, potentially, open up avenues for younger team members to stir interest within the ranks of visiting college recruiters.

While Bermuda featured its national senior team, captained by veteran Amanda Swan, and containing others that would qualify as ‘mature’ students, the stage provided the chance for younger members, such as teenage vice-captain Sarah Cross, to put their talent on display.

“It’s a good time for us to get out and get some game experience,” Bermuda captain Swan said.

“We only have one national team in Bermuda so, outside of playing against each other, this provides experience playing against good opposition.

“We obviously want to win, but it’s good practice, especially for our less experienced, younger players for them to get out and play games and for our young people, like Sarah, it provides opportunity and exposure.”

Cross, an 18-year-old who plays both hooker and scrum-half, was similarly excited to take on unfamiliar foes.

“Rugby has just become a part of my life,” said Cross, whose mother and sister also play the sport.

“I always want to play, no matter what it’s fun, so I come out and play. The physical contact hurts now and then, but it’s good experience and I want to play as long a I can and go as far as I can in the sport.

“Here, I have a great opportunity to show my talent and share my experiences with other people and have them share theirs with me, so that I’m aware of what to expect when I go to university.”