Bermuda men’s rugby coach Brian Archibald is eagerly anticipating a Rugby Americas North clash with Cayman Islands on Friday night (9.30pm Bermuda time).

Archibald, whose side lost 44-12 to Cayman at the National Sports Centre last May, is looking to make the match count with it being the only XVs game played by the national team this year.

“This is a big fixture for us, not just because it’s an RAN qualifier, but because we’re rebuilding momentum after a few difficult years,” Archibald said.

“The squad has put in the work and we’re excited to test ourselves in front of a big crowd and show what Bermuda rugby is about.”

A huge contingent from the island has headed to Cayman, with the senior women’s team, the boys under-12 squad and under-14s boys and girls tasting action against Cayman, who’s programme is overseen by former Bermuda coach Jamie Barnwell.

While the seniors take to the field on Friday at Truman Bodden Sports Complex, the junior matches started on Thursday and will be played throughout the weekend at club grounds.

The senior women, coached by Alvin Harvey and Deneka Borden, are playing ten-a-side rugby and Apryl Jackson, one of the players, expressed her excitement about the opportunity to play a format they are not accustomed to.

“It means a lot to be playing on such a big stage while also making history,” she said.

“We’ve been putting in the work as a squad, and now we’re excited to test ourselves in this new format and see what we’re capable of.”

According to the Bermuda Rugby Football Union, this is the first time the island has fielded a girls team to compete abroad following the launch of a contact rugby league in January.

“The squad features players from across the island, including public and private schools, many of whom are new to the sport but eager to represent Bermuda on the international stage,” the BRFU said.

Napri Pitt-Gray, of Warwick Academy, and Priya Dill, a student at Sandys Secondary Middle School, are the co-captains of the schools team.

“I love that rugby lets me be physical in a disciplined and positive way,” Pitt-Gray said. “It’s truly a team sport and everyone gets the chance to contribute.”

Dill is relishing the chance to interact with other players and sharing her passion for the game.

“I’m looking forward to the whole experience of the tour, especially meeting other players who love the game as much as I do,” she said.

Rob Steinhoff, the boys under-14 coach, praised the group’s camaraderie and development.

“We have a wonderful group of boys from a range of schools who’ve really come together as a team,” he said.

“Travelling to compete is about more than just the game. It’s about building character and forming lifelong bonds.”

Gemma Godfrey, the BRFU president, praised the Cayman Rugby Football Union for its commitment to developing the game in the region.

“This tour is about more than just matches,” she said. “It’s a celebration of how far our rugby community has come

“It’s also a powerful step forward in our commitment to growing the game. We’re incredibly proud of the players representing Bermuda, from our youngest debutants to our seasoned internationals.

“The tour is being supported by generous contributions from sponsors, local supporters and CRFU, who have helped provide accommodation and logistical support.

“Additional funding support is being raised to ensure every player, regardless of financial background, has the opportunity to participate.

“We’re incredibly grateful to CRFU for their partnership, generosity and support in making this tour possible.

“Their belief in regional rugby and commitment to growing the game at every level has helped create an unforgettable opportunity for our players, and we’re proud to share the field with them.”