The Bermuda Rugby Football Union celebrated its Men’s 7s squad’s strong performance and fifth-place finish at the Rugby Americas North competition in Trinidad and Tobago.
A spokesperson said, “The Bermuda Rugby Football Union is proud to celebrate the achievements and resilience of its Men’s 7s squad following their participation in the Rugby Americas North [RAN] Men’s Sevens competition, held at the Larry Gomes Stadium in Trinidad and Tobago. This year’s tournament featured 52 matches played over three days, an extended format that saw a shift from previous RAN Sevens tournament taking place over two days. The event also served as a qualification opportunity for the 2024 World Rugby Challenger Series, adding to the high stakes.
“This fully Bermudian squad, featuring several debutants and a young core, faced one of its toughest tests yet in this highly competitive arena. With significant turnover in the team due to the retirement of several experienced players, the tournament presented an invaluable opportunity for this developing group to come together and gain vital experience on the international stage.”
“It was an incredibly challenging competition, and the standard of play from all the teams was remarkably high,” said Captain Hadleigh Tucker. “Each game was very physical and fast-paced, but we found our rhythm in the playoffs. We had to dig deep to stay on top of Barbados and Cayman, securing fifth place and the plate final. The boys left it all on the field, and I’m immensely proud of the effort we put in.”
The spokesperson said, “The tournament tested the team’s mettle, with conditions ranging from scorching heat to violent downpours. Bermuda’s players rose to the occasion, showing grit and determination throughout the three-day event. Notably, Khabir Dill and Ben Greene made their international debuts, earning their first caps for Bermuda with commendable performances.”
RAN 7s Men’s Tier 1 Tournament 5th place Plate winners, Jahniko Francis, Jamie Baum, Alex Brown, Dzuri Gill, Hadleigh Tucker [captain], Rory O’Kelly Lynch, Alex Doyling, Ben Green, Tyler Kendall, Antonio Perinchief-Leader, Khabir [KJ] Dill & Aiden Kendall.
Jonathan Cassidy, Director of 7s, expressed his pride in the team’s efforts, “It was incredible to watch the boys come together and compete in Trinidad. This tournament has been a vital step in their growth as a squad, and I’m optimistic about what the future holds as these players continue to develop. Their determination and camaraderie were inspiring.”
Cassidy continued, “I would very much like to give a special mention to the player-led coaching group and the broader training squad that helped prepare the team for this competition, namely our off-pitch leadership, Dzuri Gill, Hadleigh Tucker, Alex Brown, Rory O’Kelly-Lynch and Aldo Campbell.”
The spokesperson said, “On pitch, everyone stepped up to lead to some extent, with special mentions for Jahniko Francis, Robin Brickell, Robbie Reid and Lucas Nyamoto, who also assumed the Head Coach role for the tournament itself, and did an amazing job.
“We have a new, solid foundation of players and staff to build towards next year, and beyond – and this is incredibly exciting for this young, promising squad.
“We would also like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Paradise Mobile for their support, which made the team’s participation in this prestigious tournament possible. Our thanks also goes to Front Yard for their fundraising support in the lead up to the tour.
“As Bermuda Rugby continues to rebuild, the success of this young team reflects a promising future for the sport on the island. The BRFU looks forward to fostering this talent and building on the momentum achieved at the RAN Men’s Sevens.”
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