A squad of Bermuda’s finest grapplers is heading to New Jersey this week to compete in the continent’s biggest grappling tournament. The group, which includes the country’s top male and female athletes, will face off against some of the best talent from the United States, Canada and beyond.

The event, held at the Prudential Center in Newark, attracts more than 50 teams from across North America. For the Bermudian team, the competition is a chance to measure themselves against high‑level opponents, gain international experience and bring home potential medals for the island.

The athletes, all of whom train at the local Olympic Centre, have been preparing for months. Coach Darren Thompson, who has guided the team since 2019, said the trip is also a cultural exchange: "It’s a chance for our young fighters to see how the sport is practiced in the U.S., meet their peers and bring back new techniques and strategies.

The trip is supported by the Bermuda Sports Council, which has provided travel and accommodation funding. Local fans are encouraged to follow the bouts via live streams, and the council plans to host a viewing event back in Hamilton after the competition.

Bermuda’s participation underscores the growing presence of the island in global grappling circles and may inspire a new generation of athletes to pursue the sport on the international stage.