The Annual Police Rugby Duckett Memorial matches will take place on Saturday, January 10th, 2026, at the Police Recreational Club in Prospect, marking the ceremonial opening of Bermuda’s 2025–2026 domestic rugby season. The fixture will see both the Men’s and Women’s Police rugby teams take on the Teachers in the first league matches of the new campaign, continuing one of the island’s longest-standing sporting traditions.
The annual club day is held in memory of George Duckett, a former Commissioner of Police who was assassinated in 1972. Widely regarded as a larger-than-life figure, Mr. Duckett was known for his commanding presence, deep connection to the community, and unwavering passion for rugby. In 1973, the Bermuda Police Rugby Section established an annual memorial match in his honour – an event that has since become the longest-running memorial game in Bermuda rugby history.
Speaking ahead of the fixture, Police Rugby Club Chairman Adam Richards said the Duckett Memorial continues to hold special meaning for players and supporters alike.
“Saturday is a huge day for the Police Rugby Club. The Duckett Memorial event is always well supported and this year will provide an opportunity for the club to host the kick-off to the new season. The Duckett Memorial provides a fantastic opportunity for Bermuda’s rugby community to get together and celebrate our sport. We look forward to welcoming everyone again this year.”
The Police Rugby Club extends an open invitation to serving officers, former colleagues, and rugby supporters across the island to attend and show their respect by supporting this longstanding sporting tradition. Refreshments will be available pitch-side throughout the afternoon, with food and drinks continuing upstairs at the Police Recreational Club following the matches.
Schedule of matches – Saturday, January 10th, 2026
12.30pm – Women’s Game 1: Police v Teachers
1.30pm – Women’s Game 2: Renegades v Mariners
2.30pm – Walking Rugby
3.00pm – Men’s Match: BPRFC First XV v Teachers
4.30pm – Trophy presentation on the field
7.00pm onwards – Dinner, drinks and court at the Police Recreational Club
A notable addition to this year’s Duckett Memorial programme is Walking Rugby, a new initiative designed to re-engage former players, veterans of the game, and those seeking a more accessible way to remain active within the rugby community. Played at a walking pace, the format removes contact and sprinting while retaining the core elements of passing, movement, spatial awareness and competition.
The concept has been developed to support longevity in the sport, offering an inclusive and social alternative for players who may have stepped away due to injury, age, or changing physical demands. No prior experience is required, and the emphasis is firmly on enjoyment, participation, and community connection.
Bermuda Rugby’s Operations Director Jason Hendrie said the introduction of Walking Rugby reflects a broader ambition to keep people involved in the game at every stage of life.
“Walking Rugby gives us a chance to welcome back players who still love the sport but want to be smarter about their bodies,” Hendrie said. “It’s competitive, social, and inclusive, and it opens the door for veterans, newcomers, and anyone looking to stay active without the physical toll of the traditional game. Our aspiration is for Walking Rugby to become a regular feature within the domestic landscape.”
The Duckett Memorial fixtures serve as the traditional prelude to the domestic rugby season, setting the tone for the months ahead. A full domestic fixture announcement for the 2025–2026 season will follow in due course.
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