The Bermuda Rugby Football Union is excited to announce the appointment of James Clarke as the new full-time Rugby Operations Director. This significant role marks the first full-time rugby officer since the pre-COVID era, when Patrick Calow served as Youth Development Officer in collaboration with the Family Centre. Clarke’s appointment represents a critical step in the BRFU’s renewed commitment to growing the sport in Bermuda, driving participation, and ensuring rugby’s long-term success on the island.
Clarke, a seasoned rugby professional with extensive international and domestic coaching experience, will be responsible for increasing rugby participation across all levels, with a particular focus on development of youth rugby and rugby in schools. His role includes driving initiatives that improve access and inclusion, developing pathways from grassroots to international competition, and leading the growth of women’s rugby. Clarke will also oversee the organization of high-quality coaching programs and tournaments while working closely with schools, rugby clubs, and the local community.
“I am delighted to finally be here in Bermuda and very grateful for the warm reception that I’ve received so far,” Clarke said. “Bermuda has a rich rugby history, and I look forward to playing my part in its continued success by helping to grow and develop the game at grassroots level and strengthening links and pathways through to the domestic and international game. Rugby is a game for all, and I hope to develop the inclusivity and diversity within the game here in Bermuda so that more people get to enjoy our great sport at all ages and levels.”
James Clarke, who has an impressive background in coaching and rugby development, is well-equipped for the role. His achievements include obtaining the England Rugby Advanced Coaching Award (Level 3) and the England Rugby Director of Rugby Award. Clarke has been a driving force behind the growth of rugby at Queen Elizabeth’s School in Barnet, where he served as Head of Rugby and organized one of the largest school rugby tournaments in the UK for seven years. His international experience includes coaching various teams for Jamaica Rugby, including the Men’s 15s and U18/U19 7s teams, and serving as the Director of Rugby for Finchley RFC.
Dan Roberts, Assistant Head of KS4 and Rugby Coach at Warwick Academy, expressed his enthusiasm for Clarke’s appointment:
In his new role, Clarke’s key responsibilities will include supporting player retention and growth, developing strategies for player engagement at the U16 to U23 levels, and delivering youth coaching programs for participants ranging from U12 to U18. He will also lead efforts to grow women’s rugby and promote inclusion and equality across all areas of the sport. Clarke will work closely with schools to organize annual tournaments and foster collaboration between Bermuda’s rugby clubs and international competition pathways.
Gemma Godfrey, President of the BRFU, expressed her excitement over Clarke’s appointment said, “We are absolutely thrilled to welcome James Clarke to Bermuda as our Rugby Operations Director. This appointment is the result of over a year of hard work and a global recruitment effort. I want to thank my fellow executive officers Nick West and Gillian Cross for the unending support and time they have given to this process, as well as several of our most dedicated rugby coaches in Patrick Calow, Dan Roberts, and Chris Naylor for their contributions during the interview process. A special thanks also goes to Maceo Dill from the Department of Youth & Sport for his guidance and participation during the interviews, as well as to Expertise for their invaluable support throughout the process. With James on board, we are confident that Bermuda rugby will continue to grow and thrive.”
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