Bermuda Police Rugby Football Club have confirmed their leadership group for the 2027 campaign, appointing Frans Smit and Alice Craig as men’s and ladies’ captains respectively.
The appointments form the core of a refreshed leadership structure at the club, as domestic rugby continues its concerted push to rebuild playing numbers across the island following the disruption of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Smit takes the reins of the men’s side alongside vice-captains Jason Chlup and Simon Thompson, while Craig will be supported in the ladies’ set-up by vice-captains Hannah Veitch and Anna McLeod.
The announcements mark the first major moves under newly appointed BPRFC chairman Dylan Marshall, who backed the pair to uphold the club’s long-standing heritage.
"It is a privilege to welcome Frans and Alice into these important leadership roles," Marshall said.
"Bermuda Police Rugby Football Club has a deep and proud history, and many great players have previously occupied the positions they now assume. Both roles carry considerable responsibility, but I am confident that Frans and Alice will embrace the challenge.
"They have exemplary records representing the Police and have consistently demonstrated their commitment, character and dedication to the club."
The fresh appointments arrive against a backdrop of wider rebuilding efforts within Bermudian rugby. While player turnout—particularly among younger age grades—faced a sharp downturn in the wake of the pandemic, club officials report encouraging early signs of recovery.
Marshall is keen to convert that emerging momentum into sustained numbers across both contact and non-contact formats.
"Rugby participation, especially the younger generation, in Bermuda has dwindled since Covid, but we are now starting to see encouraging signs of a resurgence," Marshall said.
"We want to build on that momentum and remind people that there is a place at the club for everyone, whether they are experienced players, returning to the game or trying rugby for the first time."
As part of the club's recruitment drive, Police are also expanding access to touch rugby during training sessions, providing an entry point for newcomers and social players looking for a non-contact alternative.
"Touch rugby provides a non-tackling alternative and is an excellent way to become involved in the sport," Marshall added. "Rugby offers great fitness, camaraderie, a wide range of social events and, most importantly, genuine enjoyment.
"We would be delighted to hear from anyone who wants to come along, meet the club and give the game a try."
With leadership confirmed across both squads, Police enter the 2027 domestic season aiming to pair competitive ambition on the pitch with a central role in driving the island's rugby revival off it.
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