Jason Hendrie has been appointed as the new rugby operations director by the Bermuda Rugby Football Union.

The 39-year-old Scotsman has been identified as the man to spearhead the growth of the sport on the island, with Hendrie’s brief including growing the game from the ground up and strengthening pathways across all levels of play in Bermuda.

Gemma Godfrey, president of the BRFU, shared her enthusiasm about Hendrie’s appointment.

“Jason joins Bermuda Rugby at a time of continued renewal and purpose,” Godfrey said.

“His experience, compassion and enthusiasm for developing players at every level align perfectly with the values that guide our rugby community.

“We look forward to working alongside him as we build on the strong foundations that have shaped our game and continue to move forward together.

“Jason’s role will encompass delivering nationwide participation initiatives, expanding school and youth rugby programmes, advancing women’s rugby and building competitive pathways through to international level.

“Working closely with local clubs, schools and community partners, he will play a key role in shaping a sustainable future for rugby on the island.

“This appointment builds on the BRFU’s strategic investment in rugby development, supported by the Department of Sport & Recreation’s Sport Investment Programme.

“It underscores the union’s dedication to ensuring that Bermuda’s rugby community continues to thrive — fostering inclusion, excellence and opportunity for players of all ages and abilities.”

Hendrie, who arrives on island next week, expressed his eagerness to spearhead the development of rugby on the island.

“I’m incredibly proud to be appointed rugby operations director for the Bermuda Rugby Football Union,” he said.

“I’m excited to work alongside such knowledgeable and passionate people and to drive the growth of rugby across the country.

“I can’t wait to help strengthen the game at both grass roots and club level and inspire the next generation of players.”

Hendrie began playing the game at the age of 7, rising through the Selkirk youth system under notable coaches including former Scotland international John Rutherford.

Hendrie went on to represent Selkirk’s first XV at scrum half and wing, contributing to both a promotion-winning season and victory in the prestigious Kings of the Sevens tournament.

A knee injury led Hendrie to discover his passion for coaching while working with Selkirk’s U18s, a moment that shaped his future career.

He later served as head coach at Dalkeith RFC, leading the club to multiple promotions during a highly successful four-year tenure, before taking on the backs and attack coach role with Premiership side Kelso Rugby Club.

In recent years, Hendrie has made significant strides in grass roots and schools rugby as youth development officer at Dalkeith RFC, overseeing programmes across three high schools and 18 primary schools.

Under his leadership, participation surged, and the club established full junior teams from the ages of 3 to 18. His creation of the School of Rugby programme at Newbattle High School transformed the institution into a regional championship-winning rugby school.

Beyond his club success, Hendrie has served as head coach within Scottish Rugby’s Pathway Programme and Midlothian men’s team.

He was credited with playing an instrumental in advancing women’s rugby, leading teams to two national finals, winning one and helping players earn national caps.