Rajan Simons, the Marketing and Fund Development Manager at the Bermuda Cricket Board, has been awarded a scholarship to further her education in sports.

Simons will join the World Academy of Sports postgraduate class of 2022 in international sports management, through the University of London, after being the sole recipient of a full-tuition scholarship through the International Cricket Council.

The online certification is a globally-recognised qualification with an intake of students made up of Olympians, Paralympians as well as international and national sport federation representatives across a range of sports.

Simons currently holds a Bachelor's degree in Journalism, a Masters in Public Relations and has been with the Bermuda Cricket Board since June 2019. She became the first female to travel with the senior men’s national team to Antigua as assistant manager in November last year.

“I am extremely excited to study International Sports Management and join this diverse cohort of global sports professionals,” Simons said yesterday.

“To be allowed the opportunity to learn from others and network in this capacity is humbling.

“I must express gratitude to the ICC, especially Fara Gorsi and the Americas regional team, my BCB colleagues and the executive board for their continuous support, always encouraging me to do more and imagine a future in sports beyond my current position.”

Simons added: “Being a woman in a male-dominated industry has been a challenging, but rewarding, learning experience. I am looking forward to continuing to contribute to the growth, development and culture of cricket in Bermuda, while hopefully inspiring more ladies to get involved with our local sports organisations.”

Calvin Blankendal, BCB Executive Director, added: "The Bermuda Cricket Board wishes to thank the ICC for having awarded Ms Rajan Simons a full scholarship to the World Academy of Sport International Sports Management programme.

"Rájan has enhanced the marketing and fund development profile and donor relationship management of the BCB. We believe that the programme will increase her understanding of the sports management aspects in relation to her multifaceted role within our organisation.

“It is also inspiring to see diversity, by having more women placed in executive sports management positions."