|
|
 |
|
Monday, June 16, 2025
|
|
Bermuda Set for RAN Men's U19 XVs Challenge in Mexico
|
Rugby Americas North (RAN) has announced that the 2025 RAN Men’s Under 19 XVs Tournament will return to FC Total in Querétaro, México, from July 9th to 12th. Bermuda will enter the competition ranked second after their strong performance last year.
Federación Méxicana de Rugby earned the bid to host this event through 2026, building on their successful hosting of the 2024 competition.
This year's tournament format will feature a single bracket of Men’s Under 19 competition across the three days. This change comes as a reflection of the significant growth in the women’s game across the region, with full international test matches now in full swing for nations such as Jamaica, Mexico, and Trinidad & Tobago.
All six participating countries – including a returning age-grade United States side, making its appearance as part of USA Rugby’s national team pathway after a long hiatus – will compete in a round-robin format on Wednesday, July 9th, and Thursday, July 10th. These initial matches will determine the seeding for the Finals, which are scheduled for July 12th. Jamaica, having missed out on the 2024 competition due to severe weather, is eager to resurface amongst the group.
The rankings heading into the tournament are based on last year’s performance:
#1 USA
#2 Bermuda
#3 Trinidad & Tobago
#4 México
#5 Cayman Islands
#6 Jamaica
Bermuda will be looking to build on their number two ranking from last year and make a strong impression against competitive regional opponents. Full tournament schedule and broadcast information are expected to be released at a later date.
|
|
|
Friday, June 13, 2025
|
|
Bermuda Rugby Teams Face Tough Start in Cayman Islands
|
A weekend of competitive rugby between Bermuda and the Cayman Islands has kicked off, with both Bermudian national teams experiencing challenging encounters on the opening day at the Truman Bodden Sports Complex.
This series of matches echoes past tours, similar to Bermuda's successful Conyers Cup defence in 2010 and the national rugby teams' visit in 2013, reinforcing a strong regional rivalry. Youth matches between the two nations are scheduled to follow on Saturday.
In the women's encounter, the Cayman Islands Women’s team took to their home pitch and secured a victory over the Bermuda Women’s team. The scoreline indicates a tough outing for the Bermudian ladies against their regional counterparts.
Following the women's match, the Bermuda Men’s team went up against a familiar face in former coach Jamie Barnwell, who now coaches the Cayman Islands. Barnwell's knowledge of the Bermudian setup seemingly paid dividends, as his Cayman Islands side defeated Bermuda 18-10.
After only 9 Minutes cayman went ahead 3 - 0 with Harry Clark connecting with a Penalty Kick, Khabir Dill gave Bermuda the lead with a Try and Ja'kee Simone connected on the Conversion for Bermuda to take a 7 - 3 lead after 19 minutes, but Cayman fought back with a Try from Tommy Kehoe, but the Conversion was missed and Cayman Islands took a 8-7 lead to the break.
The second half began with Clark kicking another Penalty for Cayman Islands to extend their lead to 11 - 7 after 41 minutes, Hadleigh Tucker connected on a Penalty Kick to pull Bermuda within 1 point after 65 minutes, but four minutes later Michael Wilson scored a Try for Cayman Islands, and Eddie Westin connected on the Conversion for the 18 - 10 win.
Despite the losses on the opening day, the Bermudian teams will be looking to regroup and learn from these experiences as the weekend of rugby continues. The upcoming youth matches will also provide valuable development opportunities for the next generation of Bermudian rugby talent.
|
|
|
Thursday, June 12, 2025
|
|
Rugby Heads to Cayman in Landmark Multi-Team Tour
|
More than 125 players will represent Bermuda in the Cayman Islands this weekend, as the island’s rugby community comes together for one of the largest and most exciting tours in recent memory, featuring a full weekend of international rugby, youth development, and historic firsts.
This combined tour sees Bermuda’s Men’s XVs National Team face off against Cayman in a Rugby Americas North (RAN) International, while the Women’s National Team will make history by playing their first-ever international in a 10s format. Alongside the senior fixtures, three youth squads, boys U12 and U14, and a newly-formed U14 girls contact team, will also represent Bermuda in a series of youth matches against Cayman’s developing talent.
“This tour is about more than just matches. It’s a celebration of how far our rugby community has come,” said BRFU President Gemma Godfrey. “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.”
This will be the first time Bermuda has ever selected a national girl’s school team to compete abroad, a milestone following the launch of Bermuda’s inaugural girls’ contact rugby league in January. The U14 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.
“I love that rugby lets me be physical in a disciplined and positive way,” said co-captain Napri Pitt-Gray of Warwick Academy. “It’s truly a team sport – everyone gets the chance to contribute.”
Fellow co-captain Priya Dill, a student at Sandys Secondary Middle School, added, “I’m looking forward to the whole experience of the tour – especially meeting other players who love the game as much as I do.”
The boys’ U14 team is equally excited. Coach Rob Steinhoff 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.”
Head Coach of the Men’s XVs, Brian Archibald, believes the timing of the tour is crucial.
“This is a big fixture for us, not just because it’s a RAN qualifier, but because we’re rebuilding momentum after a few difficult years. 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.”
Women’s National Team player Apryl Jackson echoed the excitement, especially for the visibility the event will provide.
“It means a lot to be playing on such a big stage while also making history,” said Apryl Jackson. “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.”
The tour is being supported by generous contributions from sponsors, local supporters, and Cayman RFU, who have helped provide accommodations and logistical support. Additional funding support is being raised to ensure every player, regardless of financial background, has the opportunity to participate.
Godfrey continued: “We’re incredibly grateful to Cayman Rugby 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.”
The action kicks off on Friday, June 13 with “Cayman Big Game XI”, a showcase event featuring the men’s and women’s national sides under the lights at the Truman Bodden Sports Complex. Youth games will take place throughout the weekend, offering fans an inspiring glimpse into the future of rugby in the region.
|
|
|
Tuesday, June 03, 2025
|
|
Darrell's Manchester University Crowned Champions
|
Bermudian Satya Darrell and her University of Manchester Women's Rugby Football Club teammates have capped a truly remarkable 2024/25 season, being crowned the unbeaten champions of the BUCS Northern League Tier 2 and Northern Conference Cup winners.
This dual triumph represents a massive success for the club, which attributes its achievements to an incredible team of talented players and strong leadership, coupled with first-class support from their dedicated University of Manchester Women's Rugby Football Club (UMWRFC) family on the sidelines.
The accolades didn't stop there for the Manchester side. They were also proudly presented with this year’s Outstanding Club Award at the University Rugby Awards 2024/25. This prestigious award recognises excellence across all activities within the club.
On the pitch, their 1st XV's victory in the Northern Conference Cup was a testament to their skill and determination. Beyond the senior team's success, the club's 2nd XV has demonstrated exceptional commitment to player development. They have successfully recruited and retained new players through their innovative ‘Intro to Rugby Programme’, specifically designed to prepare newcomers for success when they step onto the pitch.
Furthermore, UMWRFC has shown a strong commitment to player welfare. They have actively supported the university’s concussion testing and physio services, enabling their members to return to play safely after injury, underscoring their holistic approach to rugby development.
Satya Darrell and her University of Manchester teammates have truly set a high standard, demonstrating both on-field dominance and exemplary club management throughout their unbeaten championship season.
|
|
|
Sunday, May 18, 2025
|
|
Hodgkins Leads Privateers U23 to Home Opener Triumph
|
Jamin Hodgkins captained the Privateers Rugby under-23 team in a commanding performance for their home opener at Wickwire Field, guiding his side to a significant victory over Rugby Ontario. The Privateers U23s proved too strong for their Canadian counterparts, running out convincing 37-26 winners.
Hodgkins' leadership on the pitch was evident as the Privateers U23s controlled the game, showcasing both attacking flair and defensive solidity. The team's performance in front of their home crowd at Wickwire Field will have delighted supporters, marking a positive start to their home campaign against international opposition.
|
|
|
|
