Bermuda coach Vashun Blanchette says his players are aching to get their first taste of international experience competing in the Under-14 Caribbean Football Union Challenge Series qualifiers in Trinidad & Tobago.

The Gombey Warriors have been pitted in Tier II Group C along with Sint Maarten, St Lucia, Bonaire and Grenada, and are facing a hectic schedule that will see them play four matches in as many days.

“The boys are eagerly looking forward to their first exposure to international football over the next few days,” Blanchette told The Royal Gazette.

“The coaching staff are optimistic that the group of players selected will represent themselves and Bermuda well both on and off the field. It is our hope that they are able to perform at their level of capability on a consistent basis.”

Bermuda will begin their qualifying campaign against Bonaire today before taking on Grenada tomorrow, Sint Maarten on Sunday and St Lucia on Monday.

“We have not had the opportunity to assess any of the opponents but will do so when scheduling permits,” Blanchette added.

“However, our greater focus is on our own processes; noting that process often drives performance and improves our chances of gaining positive results.”

Bermuda’s 20-member squad departed for the Caribbean island on Tuesday, putting the final touches on their preparations ahead of today’s tournament opener.

“The team has settled well into the new environment,” Blanchette said.

The tournament, which concludes on August 24, will feature a group stage followed by the knockout rounds involving the three group winners and the best runner-up.

All matches are being streamed online on the Caribbean Football Union’s YouTube channel.