Former Davis Cup tennis player David Thomas has been named as Bermuda’s chef de mission for the Junior Pan American Games.

The event in Paraguay in August is only the second Junior Pan Am Games after Cali, Colombia in 2021, when Bermuda was represented by 11 athletes and cyclist Kaden Hopkins brought won a silver medal in the time-trial.

Thomas is delighted to have been given the responsibility to lead a team of Bermuda’s young athletes at a major Games.

“I'm extremely grateful for the opportunity to lead Team Bermuda into what promises to be an exceptional sporting festival celebrating the best that our region has to offer,” Thomas said.

“The athletes must be at the heart of all decision-making and it's not lost on me that Peter Dunne and his stellar team at the BOA have placed their trust in my ability to help foster the most ideal competitive environment for our young athletes to succeed.

“Although new to this specific role, I'm confident that between my past competitive experiences, mentors, and BOA insights, I'll be well-equipped to give our athletes the best support to compete at their highest levels.”

Peter Dunne, president of the Bermuda Olympic Association is confident that Thomas has the attributes needed to be successful in the role.

“We are thrilled that David is willing to take on this important role for our team that will head to Asunción this summer,” Dunne said.

“He brings a calm management style, and his experience as a performance athlete gives him insight into the needs of athletes at this level. We are confident that David will do a fantastic job in looking after the interests of our team in Paraguay.”

Thomas is this week participating in the chef de mission seminar in Asunción, where he will have the opportunity to visit the housing and competition sites, learn about the transportation and meal programmes, and advocate for the services which Team Bermuda will require.