As we approach the 6 month mark since these pilot programmes were launched, it’s time to take a closer look at how the first half of the year has gone.
Across the board, the overwhelming feedback is that players are incredibly grateful for the personal peer to peer connections that the pilots have provided. For many it has given them a sense of community and friendship that had been missed after leaving the game. One player from the MyPlayers programme comments that the sessions he is taking part in are “like being back in the changeroom”.
Rugby Players Ireland: Beyond The Game
The Beyond The Game (BTG) programme has had a lot of success through small, informal meet-ups between players. Several players have taken a liking to padel, organising to play against each other in small groups. As a result, Rugby Players Ireland (RPI) is exploring the options to make this part of the programme.
In terms of engagement, the BTG programme is being shared widely through the RPI newsletter with over 700 people receiving the monthly newsletter this quarter.
Overall, the programme is doing a tremendous job and is reaching more players than in Q1, a definite sign of progression.
The next steps for this programme remain similar to when it started; to access a greater number of players and form stronger relationships with the provincial clubs and women’s teams. Each of these with the ultimate aim of helping more former players.
New Zealand Rugby Association: The Aftermatch
The Aftermatch programme has had huge success through the use of 1:1 connections. Several players have contacted the PDM for this support and have relayed extremely positive feedback about their sessions.
Players in this programme are making full use of all the resources that are available to them which is fantastic to see. The career coaching sessions, in particular, have become very popular.
Maree Bowden, the PDM, notes:
“The biggest success so far for our programme is that players are aware that there is continued support for them in this space and they can reach out whenever they need something.”
The NZRPA now plan to use concise communication at consistent intervals throughout the coming months to stay top of mind and ensure that all players are aware of the support available.
Players from Fiji, Tonga and Samoa have reached out to share their interest in attending further sessions, connecting in person and helping other players. It’s great to see such willingness from fellow players as it emanates that sense of community that we are striving to create.
Continuing with the theme of this article, players in the Pacific Islands have also fed back that in person connection is a stand out benefit to the programme.
Coming up next for PRP is the delivery of agriculture and leadership sessions in Fiji, both of which are being delivered to match the needs of former players in that particular region.
MyPlayers South Africa: Beyond The Game
The Transition Support Pathway forums that exist in this programme have now become a primary focus, and have been transformative for players. They provide a safe space for players to be vulnerable and share their challenges and experiences. One player comments that the forum:
“shows how talking can bring clarity and help us navigate life more effectively”.
Players treasure these sessions as they feel supported and part of a network, just as they did when playing rugby.
As with other programmes, MyPlayers are experiencing grand success when players are met 1:1. Stronger rapport can be built and more significant progress is then made. They also note the importance of having in-person connection and as such are aiming to create more in-person engagements in the coming months.
Once again, lots of progress is being made and most importantly, lots of players are being helped. It’s clear to see the positive impact these pilot programmes are having and the next steps for each are inspiring.
Please do not hesitate to get in touch if you would like to get involved in the foundation in any way. Email us at communications@rugbyplayersfoundation.com and we will get back to you as soon as we can.
