The Beyond Rugby Bermuda programme is set to reap the rewards after partnering with the Bermuda Ball Hockey Association.

Following an impressive year for the BBHA in which it executed the successful ISBHF World Ball Hockey Masters Tournament in September, it has now partnered with the Beyond Rugby programme to help increase funding and development.

The Beyond Rugby programme, which focuses on middle and high school youngsters, is run in conjunction with the Family Centre and the Bermuda Rugby Football Union and focuses on using the core value of rugby to develop strong characteristics within Bermuda’s youth.

“The Bermuda Ball Hockey Association did an incredible job in hosting the World Ball Hockey Masters Tournament this year,” said Patrick Calow, the BRFU youth development officer. “It’s always amazing to see how sport can bring people together from around the world.

“We are incredibly appreciative that the BBHA have chosen to partner with Beyond Rugby to assist in developing our programme.”

In celebration of the bridging of these two sports, members of the Beyond Rugby programme were able to experience an evening of ball hockey. Learning from players active in the Bermuda ball hockey community, the Beyond Rugby group were exposed to ball handling and skill focused drills with an opportunity to play against each other and to watch a more experienced game between ball hockey players.

Ian Nash, of the BBHA, added, “The tournament really put Bermuda on the map as a destination that can support and now attract a very large sporting event like the masters that had over 600 players, support staff and families for an entire week.

“The feedback from the players all the way to the ISBHF President George Gortsos was amazing. Everyone said it was the best Masters they have ever attended.

“We believe working with Beyond Rugby and the development of the kids will help grow them as individuals and both sports here in Bermuda.”