Annual Report 2024

The Players’

ANNUAL 2024 www.myplayers.co.za

CONTENTS

The Players’ Annual 2024 Chairperson’s Report......................................................................................................... 2 CEO Report........................................................................................................................................... 4 A word of thanks........................................................................................................................ 6 About us .................................................................................................................................................... 8 Organisational structure .......................................................................................... 10 Financial overview ................................................................................................................ 14 Commercial division .......................................................................................................... 16 Commercial development .................................................................................... 18 Industrial affairs .......................................................................................................................... 20 Player affairs ...................................................................................................................................... 22 Player development .......................................................................................................... 24 Communications ..................................................................................................................... 32 Financial services .................................................................................................................... 34 The Players’ Charity ............................................................................................................ 38 MyPlayers Awards .................................................................................................................. 40

South African Rugby Players’ Organisation

PUBLICATION DISCLAIMER: Please note that the content in this publication is intended for the recipient/organisation to whom the publication is distributed. The information contained herein is not authorised to be published on any public media platform unless the prior consent of the issuer of the publication is obtained.

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Chairperson’s Report Jean de Villiers INTRODUCTION The rugby landscape is evolving rapidly. South African teams are playing more rugby than ever, with increasingly competitive competitions and tournaments demanding peak performance year-round. While this is a testament to the sport’s growing appeal and our players’ incredible skill, it places immense pressure on player welfare and workload.

As someone who has lived the life of a professional player, I know how critical it is to find the balance between maximising performance on the field and ensuring players’ health and well-being off the field. Player load management is no longer just a buzzword — it’s a vital pillar for sustaining our sport. Thankfully, this has been recognised at the highest levels of rugby and I want to acknowledge the remarkable work being done to prioritise player safety and welfare globally and here at home.

PLAYER WELFARE: A GLOBAL PRIORITY World Rugby continues to set the standard in prioritising player safety and welfare. Their unwavering commitment to creating a safer, more sustainable game is commendable, and the innovative measures set to take effect in 2025 reflect this dedication. These initiatives include a 60-second conversion limit, 30-second setups for lineouts and scrums, and a play-on rule for uncontested lineouts, all designed to maintain game pace. Enhanced protection for scrum-halves and a streamlined TMO protocol further prioritise player safety while improving decision-making and overall viewing experience.

I also want to highlight SARU’s alignment with World Rugby’s vision. SARU has played a

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vital role in adopting these global standards, ensuring that player safety and welfare remain at the forefront locally. This commitment exemplifies the power of collaboration between national unions and the sport’s governing bodies.

Our players: The unsung heroes None of these advancements would matter without the incredible resilience and dedication of our players. Transitioning into extended schedules and competing in multiple high-level tournaments is no small feat.

I want to recognise and thank our players for the sacrifices they’ve made, especially during a time of the year traditionally reserved for family and rest. Competing during the holiday season is not easy, but they’ve handled this responsibility with professionalism and pride.

Their ability to adapt, perform and elevate the standard of rugby across all competitions has been truly remarkable.

WOMEN’S RUGBY: A RISING FORCE One of the most exciting developments in South African rugby is the rapid rise of women’s rugby.

With each match, our women’s teams are breaking barriers, improving performance and capturing the imagination of fans across the country.

Their achievements in 2024, under the guidance of their new coaching staff, have laid the groundwork for an even brighter future. The talent pool is extraordinary and the upward trajectory is undeniable. At MyPlayers, we are committed to supporting their interests, ensuring they get the recognition they deserve and helping them achieve even greater success.

We’re particularly proud to see their hard work pay off as they prepare for the 2025 Rugby World Cup.

CELEBRATING TEAM SUCCESSES This year, South African rugby has once again proven its strength on the international stage. The Sharks’ triumph in the EPCR Challenge Cup was a monumental achievement, showing that our teams can go toe-to-toe with some of the best in Europe. Their victory, along with their Currie Cup win, highlighted the depth of talent in our system.

South Africa is the only country in the world to play rugby year-round - a distinctive position that brings both exciting opportunities and unique challenges. While this showcases our unmatched commitment to the sport, it also places additional pressure on our teams and players, requiring us to remain vigilant about managing player load and maintaining performance.

CLOSING THOUGHTS As rugby continues to thrive globally, South Africa is experiencing the same remarkable growth. But to sustain this progress, we need to work together. Collaboration between players, unions, teams, and governing bodies is crucial.

By addressing challenges as a united front, we can keep the game moving forward while protecting the heart of rugby — our players.

I want to end by celebrating the remarkable achievements of our national teams: › Congratulations to the Springboks for their continued excellence. › A round of applause to our provincial teams for their stellar performances. › Well done to the Blitzboks for securing an Olympic bronze medal and the Cape Town Sevens title. › And, of course, best wishes to the Springbok Women as they prepare for the 2025 Rugby World Cup. Thank you to everyone — players, administrators and fans — for your contributions to this incredible journey. Together, we are shaping a future for South African rugby that is both bright and sustainable.

Jean de Villiers Chairperson, MyPlayers

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CEO Report Eugene Henning

South African rugby is at an extraordinary crossroads. Our game is evolving in exciting and challenging ways as we navigate new territories and set new standards. With provincial teams competing in northern hemisphere tournaments and the national team maintaining a southern hemisphere calendar, we are reshaping the very face of rugby.

As back-to-back Rugby World Cup champions, the weight of international expectations drives us toward a new level of excellence. The introduction of new competitions and the demands they bring reflect a changing rugby landscape. While the challenges are significant, so are the opportunities. What is most encouraging is how everyone in the industry — from players to administrators — has embraced this transformation. This journey is far from over; we are only halfway there, but together, we are creating a brighter future for South Af rican rugby.

PLAYER LOAD ARBITRATION The arbitration MyPlayers conducted around player load was a necessary milestone in this journey. Players are now competing year-round, with expanded commitments across multiple competitions. This context made the arbitration essential to ensure players received adequate rest and recovery. The successful outcome — individualised rest periods for players — is a testament to the collaborative effort across the industry.

This isn’t about boasting but about recognising the importance of safeguarding our players’ health and ensuring they can perform at their best in this demanding new rugby calendar.

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IMPROVED TRAVEL PROVISIONS A significant development for our teams competing in the URC is the introduction of business class and premium economy travel. Given that South African teams travel far more frequently than their European counterparts, this step was both necessary and impactful. While European teams may travel once per season, our teams typically travel three or four times and ensuring their comfort on these long journeys was imperative.

COMMITMENT TO WORLD RUGBY’S PLAYER LOAD GUIDELINES World Rugby is currently developing a player load framework to guide best practices across the sport. This is a major step forward, crafted with input from global experts. South Africa has already committed to adopting these guidelines once finalised.

This proactive stance underscores the industry’s dedication to creating a sustainable playing environment. For players, this commitment ensures they operate in a system prioritising their welfare.

SUPPORTING MATCH OFFICIALS This year marked our first full year of representing match officials, an exciting new chapter for MyPlayers. We are close to finalising an industrial collective agreement for these officials and earlier this year, we completed their collective commercial rights agreement.

This agreement represents an historic moment and we approach it as a positive step forward for the game and for those who dedicate themselves to ensuring its integrity on the field.

STRENGTHENING COMMERCIAL PROGRAMMES Our commercial programmes have seen significant growth, which directly benefits the players.

This success is closely tied to the remarkable performances of our national team, the competitiveness of our URC teams and the diligent efforts of SARU at a rights retail level.

The increase in rights transgressions remains a challenge. Together with SARU, we have managed this constructively, engaging corporates, players and agents to maintain the integrity and value of these commercial rights.

INVESTING IN PLAYER DATA One of our strategic focuses for the future is the collection and utilisation of player data. By understanding the players’ world — on and off the field — we can better address their welfare, development and overall needs.

To achieve this, we are building a data platform that will provide comprehensive insights into players’ lives and careers. This initiative represents a significant investment in their future and will allow us to make meaningful contributions to the rugby industry as a whole.

PLAYER AFFAIRS This year saw a significant increase in off-field player representation, particularly during disciplinary matters. Our ability to provide players with access to a skilled legal panel is a reflection of our commitment to supporting them in every aspect of their professional lives.

FINANCIAL HEALTH The Rugby Players’ Pension Fund remains healthy and continues to grow. Additionally, our internal reserve fund for medical aid has ensured that all players are covered, which is a vital aspect of player welfare.

MyPlayers remains in a strong financial position. While our budget is managed prudently, we continue to expand our services and deliver significant value to the players we represent.

PLAYER DEVELOPMENT

one mentorship and an ever-expanding bursary fund. Each year, players graduate with qualifications made possible through this fund.

We are also seeing increased utilisation of the mental health helpline, reflecting the pressures these young athletes face. It is a reminder of the importance of providing robust support systems to help players manage the demands of their careers.

CONCLUSION I want to express my gratitude to SARU, SAREO, agents, players, MyPlayers staff, player development managers, commercial partners, administrators, high-performance staff, coaches and the fans. Your collective effort and support is what makes progress possible.

As we continue to navigate this transformative period in South African rugby, let’s remember the importance of collaboration. Together, we can grow the game while ensuring the welfare of the players who make it all possible.

To the Springboks, provincial teams, Blitzboks and Springbok Women — thank you for your incredible contributions this year. We wish the women the very best for the 2025 Rugby World Cup and look forward to another successful season for all our teams.

Eugene Henning CEO, MyPlayers

Our Player Development Programme has grown in leaps and bounds, offering one-on-

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A Word of Thanks TO THE PLAYERS As we reflect on our rugby journey of 2024. This past year has been a testament to the dedication, determination, pride and sheer excellence of our players. To the Springboks, whose relentless pursuit of greatness knows no bounds - we say thank you for entertaining us and making the nation proud.

A resounding thank you to all teams: to the Blitzboks, thank you for an exciting Olympics campaign, to the Springbok Women - it has been an honour to see your grow and grow with every match, we are excited to see you participate in the 2025 Rugby World Cup, we’re positive we will see great things from you. To the Sharks on their EPCR and Currie Cup wins,

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MYPL AYE RS | The Rugby Players’ Organisation

to the Boland Kavaliers successfully defended their Carling Currie Cup First Division title. The SWD Eagirls were crowned champions of the 2024 Women’s First Division, the Bulls Daisies won their Women’s Premier Division when they successfully defended their title.

To every player who stepped onto the field, showcasing skill, resilience and sportsmanship: your unwavering commitment to the game has brought joy to many fans. Thank you, one and all for being part of this incredible rugby journey.

TO THE INDUSTRY To our valued stakeholders, we extend our heartfelt gratitude for your unwavering support and contributions. To the dedicated coaches and support staff, thank you for your tireless efforts behind the scenes, ensuring our players were equipped to perform at the highest level. A special mention to the high-performance divisions, whose expertise and commitment have been instrumental in preparing our players for excellence on the global stage. To our commercial partners, your investment is a testament to your belief in the potential of rugby. Your collaboration empowers us to innovate, grow and leave a lasting impact on the sport’s global landscape. To our media partners, thank you for capturing the heart and essence of our rugby journey, sharing it with passion and authenticity. Finally, we acknowledge SARU, SAREO and every other role player whose contributions have been integral to our collective success.

TO THE BENEFIT PARTNERS MyPlayers is fortunate enough to have partners who continue to enhance the service and product offerings we can extend to our players. We want to express our gratitude and appreciation to the following partners, who are still part of the MyPlayers family as we now conclude this reporting cycle. To those whose agreements with MyPlayers have already concluded, we thank you. A special thanks to PlaySmart, Opro and Nicki de Villiers Dietitians, who served as benefit partners and to e-Models, Versus Socks and Krystle Kustanovich who have joined our growing list of partners.

TO THE FANS As we celebrate a phenomenal year of rugby — marked by Rugby Championship glory and an Autumn Series triumph — we extend heartfelt thanks to the best fans in the world.

Thank you for standing behind the Springboks, cheering on the Blitzboks to Olympic bronze, and supporting the Springbok Women during their WXV2 campaign as they prepare for the 2025 Rugby World Cup. To those who backed our provincial teams in the URC, Currie Cup, and beyond, your passion fuels South African rugby.

Together, we celebrate unity, pride, and unforgettable moments.

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About Us OUR PURPOSE STATEMENT We believe rugby is more than just a game.

WHO WE ARE MyPlayers is the organisation for all the professional rugby players and match officials in South Africa. The organisation was established in 1997 with the main purpose of managing the collective interests of the players and later on also the match officials.

The prominent collective interests include intellectual property utilisation, core financial services requirements, industrial agreements and personal career development.

The organisation is owned by the professional players who, together with the match officials, form part of the strategic leadership by serving on the organisational structures.

Players serve on various leadership structures in the organisation, such as the MyPlayers Board, Players’ Trust, the Players’ Organisation (labour division) Executive Committee, and the Provincial Player Representative Group.

We represent and look after the collective interests of all the professional rugby players in South Af rica – both on and off the field.

OUR FOCUS › Protect and manage the collective intellectual property rights of professional rugby players; › Assist players with career advice and personal development opportunities, while preparing them for life outside of rugby; › Provide assistance and advice to the players on all their industrial matters; › Manage and administrate the core financial services requirements of the players; › Represent players on the various bodies such as the SARU Executive Committee; › Act as a constructive stakeholder in the South African rugby landscape to assist in growing the game and making it stronger.

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MYPL AYE RS | The Rugby Players’ Organisation

OUR MISSION STATEMENT We provide player-driven solutions to improve the lives of our members.

OUR VALUES RESPECT For ourselves and the players we serve LOYALTY We serve and work for the players ACCOMMODATION Accommodate players at all costs and benefit to them INTEGRITY Underpins everything we are and do

OUR SLOGAN Empowering players, contributing to the game CONTACT DETAILS ☎ 066 307 5474 ✉ info@my-player.com WORKING HOURS Monday – Friday 08:30 - 16:30 LOCATION Ground Floor Table Bay Building Tygerberg Office Park 163 Uys Krige Drive Plattekloof Cape Town

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Organisational structure MYPLAYERS GROUP BOARD Responsible for strategic development and directing and managing the operations of the group.

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Jean de Villiers

Eugene Henning

Lukhanyo Am

Aimee BarrettTheron

Nolusindiso Booi

Chairperson

CEO

Eben Etzebeth

Neethling Fouché

Adriaan (AJ) Jacobs

Patrick Lambie

Babalwa Latsha

Marius Louw

Frans Malherbe

Thurlow Marsh

Teboho ‘Oupa’ Mohojé

Ruan Nortje

Reinhard Nothnagel

Siviwe Soyizwapi

Marco van Staden

Impi Visser

Eloise Webb

MYPL AYER S | The Rugby Players’ Organisation

MYPLAYERS OPERATIONAL TEAM Oversees the day-to-day operations of MyPlayers and manages the products and services provided by the Players’ Organisation. Also responsible for the management of SARPA and The Players’ Trust.

Eugene Henning

Chief Executive Officer eugeneh@my-players.com +27 82 657 2908

Nicole Falconer

National Player Development Manager nicole@my-players.com +27 71 470 4901

David de Villiers

Mandisi Tshonti

Isma-eel Dollie

General Manager: Player Affairs mandisi@my-players.com +27 82 738 1377

National Player Relationship Manager ismaeel@my-players.com +27 84 484 4412

Laykin Rudolph

Réghana Harneker

Communications Manager laykin@my-players.com +27 72 875 5671

General Manager: Legal, Compliance and Governance reghana@my-players.com +27 83 231 6824

MyPlayers Financial Services david@my-players.com +27 82 460 2803

Finance Manager helga@my-players.com +27 21 887 5786

Helga Esau

Welmarie van der Spuy

Tracey Cable

Danika Groenewald

Lungiswa Kokose

Office Manager info@my-players.com +21 21 887 5786

Administrative Assistant danika@my-players.com +27 77 600 6180

Senior Financial Manager welmarie@my-players.com +27 72 826 0202

Office Assistant

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PROVINCIAL PLAYER REPRESENTATIVES The provincial player representatives serve as your player group’s direct link, intermediary and communication channel with MyPlayers.

Stedman Gans

Thurlow Marsh

Jeandré Rudolph

Reinhard Nothnagel

George Whitehead

Blue Bulls

Boland

Cheetahs

Golden Lions

Griquas

Robbie Petzer

Ryan Smit

Clinton Swart

James Venter

Impi Visser

Leopards

Pumas

Sharks

Springbok Sevens

Griffons

Eloise Webb Springbok Women’s Sevens

Neethling Fouché

Valentino Wellman

Western Province

Valke

MEMBERS WHO SERVED DURING THIS REPORTING PERIOD:

Onke Dubase Border

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Thato Mavundla Griffons

HP Swart Leopards

MYPL AYE RS | The Rugby Players’ Organisation

Francois Kleinhans Pumas

Werner Kok Sharks

PLAYER DEVELOPMENT MANAGERS Oversees the day-to-day operations of MyPlayers and manages the products and services provided by the Players’ Organisation. Also responsible for the management of SARPA and The Players’ Trust.

Nicole Falconer

Kelly-Anne Ramsden

Sally Joubert

Blitzboks, Springbok Women 7s & 15s, Emerging and Non-Franchises

Bulls

Cheetahs

Claus Kempen

Bronwyn Dodds

Anina Coetzee

Griquas

Lions

Pumas

Kirsten van den Heerden Sharks

Alastair Theys Stormers

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MYPL AYERS | The Rugby Players’ Organisation

Financial Overview INCOME SOURCES

REVENUE ALLOCATION

› Investments › Financial services › Licensing programmes › Membership fees › Sponsorships › Collective commercial rights

› Percentage towards operations: 21% › Percentage towards distribution to the players: 79%

BREAKDOWN OF OPERATIONAL COSTS

Financial services 9,9%

Industrial (SARPA) 8,4%

Board, finances and admin costs 28,1%

Brand and communications 5%

Player affairs 8,1%

Player development programme 14,7%

PERCENTAGE NEEDED FOR EACH SEGMENT

Commercial 19,6%

Legal & Compliance 6,3%

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Commercial Division The Commercial Division is primarily responsible for overseeing and managing the collective rights of the players.

Amount per player per match if part of the Springbok Test-day team: › Appearances: R29 275

MyPlayers oversees and manages the Commercial Board, which secures the collective commercial rights of professional rugby players in South Af rica and ensures that the players receive appropriate remuneration for the use of their commercial rights. The Players’ Organisation also ensures that the usage of rights is available for commercialisation within the industry and that external parties receive prior consent from the Commercial Board when using these rights.

Amount per player for an appearance performed while in the Springbok squad (includes appearances for MyPlayers):

THE 2023/24 COLLECTIVE COMMERCIAL DISTRIBUTIONS TO PLAYERS Players received payments for the use of their rights by the South African rugby industry for commercial gain (number includes Sevens players).

TOTAL AMOUNT OF PLAYERS WHO RECEIVED PAYMENTS

824

NATIONAL PLAYERS Total amount distributed between Springboks and Blitzboks: SPRINGBOKS › Total distributions paid (incl. licensing fees): R31 423 332 › Matches: R52 087

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MYPL AYERS | The Rugby Players’ Organisation

BLITZBOKS › Total distributions paid: R6 260 819 › Tournaments: R20 000 Amount per tournament played in the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series › Squad: Capped: R89 519 › Squad: Uncapped: R62 664 Amount for being part of the senior national squad for six months or longer PROVINCIAL PLAYERS › Total amount distributed to provincial players: R31 148 322 MATCHES › Amount per player for SA-A, URC, EPCR match: R5 322 › Amount per Currie Cup Premier Division match: R3 193 › Amount per Currie Cup First Division match: R2 129 › Amount per provincial appearance: R1 500

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Commercial Development MyPlayers forms commercial partnerships with external third parties to develop licensing products and programmes. These programmes consist of player products or campaigns in which the overall objective is to promote the collective interest of the players within the market. Players receive a collective share of the royalties earned through these products and programmes.

COMMERCIAL DEALS BACK-TO-BACK by Burnet Media In the wake of the historic 2023 Rugby World Cup victory, SuperSport commentator Matthew Pearce partnered with Burnet Media to create the official commemorative book, Back-to-Back.

This captivating publication offers an insider’s perspective on the Springboks’ triumphant journey to back-to-back World Cup titles. Fully sanctioned and licensed by MyPlayers and SA Rugby, the book celebrates one of the greatest achievements in rugby history.

RUGBY WORLD CUP GAME by NACON A brand-new, heart-pounding action- and adrenaline-fueled Rugby World Cup game by NACON will be released in 2025.

UZUMBA FIGURINES The meticulously crafted and finely detailed figurines of the Springboks were made by Uzumba ahead of the 2023 Rugby World Cup. They showcase the players in dynamic poses frozen in moments of athleticism and proudly display South Africa’s authentic jerseys, logos, and meticulously replicated rugby gear commemorating the World Cup.

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Industrial Affairs The South African Rugby Players’ Association (SARPA) is the registered trade union for all the professional rugby players in South Africa, which enables this division of MyPlayers to look after players’ collective employment matters on a national and provincial level.

KEY EVENTS IN 2024 SARICA 2024 › Stakeholders reviewed and completed the signing of the 2024 South African Rugby Industry Collective Agreement on 25 March 2024. New changes introduced ensure ongoing support to the Industry to provide continuous access to the number of players necessary for the season and adequate budgets for contracting these players. Strengthened the focus on prioritising Player Welfare by introducing stricter rules and › First Addendum to 2024 SARICA › Following the completion of the arbitration process, parties to SARICA agreed to conclude a settlement agreement. The principles of the settlement are recorded in the first addendum to the 2024 SARICA. In summary, below are the most important principles, integral in shaping and managing player welfare with regard to player load management: ›› Leave, rest periods planning ›› Monitoring, application and provision of rest periods ›› World rugby player load management (guidelines) ›› International travel

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MYPL AYER S | The Rugby Players’ Organisation

› Match officials collective agreement Stakeholders made significant progress in drawing up primary employment benefits for the match officials. This provides much-needed comfort and protection of their collective commercial and industrial rights. Parties are in the final stages of negotiations and planning to produce the 1st draft early in 2025.

AGREEMENTS THAT WERE REVIEWED OR CONCLUDED IN 2023/24 › 2024 SARICA › First Addendum to 2024 SARICA (contracting model changes) › Sevens Olympics Bonus Agreement (Men and Women) › Springbok Sevens Remuneration Agreement (2024 – 2027) › Addendum to the Women Springboks Remuneration Agreement

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Player Affairs This division is responsible for building and maintaining strong and proficient relationships between the organisation and the players. The team endeavours to keep players informed about the latest developments within the organisation and industry.

2023/24 IN REVIEW ROADSHOWS AND VISITS The MyPlayers roadshow and union visits were conducted in person by National Player Relationship Manager, Isma-eel Dollie. He travelled to the different unions to onboard development players as members of the Players’ Organisation and briefed all players on player-related matters.

The roadshow presentations covered these topics: › Pension fund – statements, two-pot system › Player welfare – leave, rest › Players’ app – new app introduced › MyPlayers benefits – new benefits › Membership CRAVEN WEEK ROADSHOW AND CAPTAIN’S DINNER Isma-eel Dollie represented MyPlayers at the under-18 Craven Week. The Captain’s Dinner was held on Thursday 27 June, at the Silverstar Casino in Krugersdorp. Former Springboks Rudy Paige and Juan de Jongh shared their stories and words of wisdom with the invited captains.

Aphelele Fassi showcasing the 2024 Craven Week brochure.

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MYPL AYERS | The Rugby Players’ Organisation

CHRIS BURGER PETRO JACKSON PLAYERS’ FUND CHARITY – GOLF DAY FUNDRAISER IN LONDON Deon Fourie handed over a cheque of R510 192 towards the Players Fund in September. (Read more on page 38 under Players’ Charity) MEMBERSHIP COVERAGE LEVELS

Isma-eel Dollie alongside Jean de Villiers and Deon Fourie during the Chris Burger Petro Jackson cheque handover.

For a player to receive the services and membership benefits provided by MyPlayers, they need to sign up for membership of MyPlayers and SARPA through the Players’ Affairs division.

As of September 2024, MyPlayers is representing › 773 professional rugby players › 493 senior players › 280 development players

ON-FIELD CITINGS AND DISCIPLINARY HEARINGS MyPlayers provides players with legal representation when they face disciplinary hearings at their union or when they receive an on-field citing such as a red or yellow card during a match.

PLAYERS HAVE ACCESS TO LEGAL REPRESENTATION FOR THE FOLLOWING:

Players represented by MyPlayers during on-field disciplinary hearings in 2023/24 › 19 cases

DOPING

PLAYER WELFARE (LOAD)

The annual roadshows to the different unions provide the organisation with the platform to create awareness amongst the players on doping and the negative consequences if they test positive. As it forms part of the membership benefit, the organisation provides players who tested positive for banned substances with legal representation during their hearing

Myplayers provides players with monthly updates on the minutes and games played as well as rest periods.

Players represented by MyPlayers in doping-related hearings in 2023/24 › 3 cases

MYPLAYERS APP ACCESS Queries, registration and app-related administration assistance to players to access the benefits

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MYPL AYE RS | The Rugby Players’ Organisation

Player Development The Player Development Division is responsible for designing and implementing the player development programme in line with international best practices that will support and benefit players for life during and after professional rugby. This division and its programme is designed to focus on the holistic development of each player, assisting them in becoming the best possible version of themselves, on and off the rugby field.

In professional sports, the focus has traditionally been on developing athletes’ physical skills and performance capabilities to excel in their respective sports. However, there is a growing recognition of the importance of supporting and developing athletes holistically, addressing not only their physical prowess but also their mental, emotional, and professional development. This holistic approach is crucial for preparing athletes for life beyond their sporting careers, ensuring they have the skills, resilience, and adaptability to transition successfully into traditional careers once their time on the field comes to an end.

Furthermore, this year, MyPlayers’ Development Division applied for funding f rom the Global Rugby Players Foundation for a retired-players’ support programme and was awarded the funding to design and implement a development programme for 30 retired players in South Af rica. Beyond the Game launched on the 12th of August 2024 and will be running for a 12-month period.

BEYOND THE GAME PROGRAMME OBJECTIVES: 1. Provide transition support: Assist retired players in navigating the challenges of transitioning f rom professional sports to life beyond the field, focusing on career planning, identity reformation, networking, and personal growth.

2. Promote holistic well-being: Enhance the mental and emotional well-being of retired players by providing access to mental-health services, wellness activities, one-onone coaching, and support networks.

3. Foster sustainable career development: Equip participants with the skills, knowledge, and resources needed to pursue sustainable careers or entrepreneurial ventures, ensuring long-term financial stability and personal fulfilment.

Watch a testimonial from one of the participants in Beyond the Game here: https://drive.google.com/ file/d/1KZZ-fu674wgavFD-dAzRK-_ AeL5V1W08/view?usp=sharing

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WELL-BEING

DUAL CAREER PATH

The player development programme is grounded in three pillars aimed at holistically developing players alongside their rugby careers.

PERSONAL GROWTH

KEY FOCUS AREAS OF PLAYER DEVELOPMENT

Through resources, education, workshops, and access to professionals, players are exposed to several educational and developmental opportunities to develop themselves alongside their rugby careers.

PLAYER DEVELOPMENT

THE 3 DEVELOPMENT PILLARS EXPLAINED PERSONAL GROWTH This developmental pillar covers all aspects of personal and professional development and is summarised as follows: a) Discover more about yourself › Personality assessments are available for players to learn more about themselves, their personalities, preferences, values, communication styles, etc. The results and debriefs are then utilised to commence the holistic development process, tailored specifically to each individual. b) Personal development plans › One-on-one sessions with a Player Development Manager to compile personal development plans are available to MyPlayers’ members. › Follow-up sessions are held with players to ensure the implementation of their “game plans” to succeed in life outside of rugby. › The focus areas of the personal development plans (specific to rugby players) are as follows:

Finance

Education

Identity

Career

Fun

HOLISTIC DEVELOPMENT

Well-being

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MYPL AYERS | The Rugby Players’ Organisation

Rugby

Health

c) Tailoring Development through needs analyses › Player surveys and the one-on-one sessions with Player Development Managers form the basis of a needs analysis for MyPlayers to gather information on players’ needs regarding topics for developmental presentations. › MyPlayers collaborates with various educational and developmental benefit partners to tailor presentations and workshops to address the diverse needs of the players.

DUAL CAREER PATHS This developmental pillar emphasises a more seamless pathway from actively playing to post-rugby careers.

Career Stages

› Due to the short lifespan of a professional rugby career compared to a traditional career, we encourage the overlap of development in dual career paths for players to have a more seamless transition. A dual career path does not necessarily imply an alternate career at a specified time, but rather that the individual considers the type of skills that can be transferable to an alternate career and then develops these skills whilst playing rugby. By doing so, we aim to develop players’ employability and transferable skill sets for life after rugby. › MyPlayers offers career guidance to all players interested in exploring possible career paths. Psychometric assessments are used

Ages 15-24 Exploration

Ages 25-44 Establishment

to determine personality, preferences, motivational workplace factors, and career interest fields. The results of these assessments are integrated into a report and recommendations are made to the players during oneon-one feedback sessions. By the end of October, eight players have received career guidance in 2024. › We also assist players to ensure they are “workplace-ready” by assisting them in drafting curricula vitae, sharing interview tips, and helping them with internship/job shadowing opportunities.

MyPlayers bursary & educational partners › MyPlayers offers several partial or full bursaries to support players needing financial assistance to pursue their formal education.

We also collaborate with partners offering players discounts on various academic and educational courses. This includes academic institutions offering both online and in-person courses (part-time or full-time), professionals, and coaches who can develop players’ entrepreneurial skills, business acumen, and other transferable skills, equipping players for transition and life outside of rugby. › The MyPlayers bursary programme was established in 2016. Players’ studies are funded and monitored by the Players’ Organisation.

The aim is to help players develop and excel in other facets of their life. By providing an opportunity for players to further their education, MyPlayers also ensures that they are equipped for life after retirement from rugby.

Ages 45-64 Maintenance

Ages 65+ Decline

Career Progression Typical career

Professional athlete career

Annual Report | 2024

27

Keketso Morabe

Chumisa Qawe

Ethan Fisher

THE 2024 RECIPIENTS OF THE MYPLAYERS’ BURSARY Lindelwa Gwala

BSc in Strength and Conditioning

Zintle Mpupha

Postgraduate Diploma in

SETANTA

Sport Development and Peace

UWC

Stedman Gans

Bachelor of Applied Social Science

SACAP

Regan Izaks

BSc in Strength and Conditioning

SETANTA

Sango Xamlashe

BCom Business Informatics

UNISA

Alulutho Tshakweni

Diploma in Marketing and Communications

UNISA

Keketso Morabe

BSc in Strength and Conditioning

SETANTA

Nadine Roos

BSc in Strength and Conditioning

SETANTA

Adrian Joubert

BCom Business Management

AKADEMIA

Asisispho Plaatjies

Bachelor of Administration

University of

Fort Hare

Chumisa Qawe

Short course: Professional Communication and Office Management

UCT

Nolusindiso Booi

Short course: Sport Massage

ETA

Sibusiso Sangweni

BA

Wits

Higher Certificate in Short-Term Insurance

Moonstone

Hendrik Petrus van Schoor

Business School

Ethan Fisher

Bachelor of Law

UNISA

Orateng Koikanyang

BCom Marketing

UNISA

Vernon Paulo

Diploma in Coaching Science

NWU

Munashe Mhere

BCom Marketing and Management Sciences

IMM

Andell Loubser

Diploma in Human Resource Management

Boston City

Munier Hartzenberg

Short course: Web Design

GetSmarter, UCT

Mfundo Ndhlovu

BCom Business Management

UNISA

Justin Geduld

BSc in Strength and Conditioning

SETANTA

Reinhardt Fortuin

Masters in Engineering Management

University of

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College

MYPL AYERS | The Rugby Players’ Organisation

Stellenbosch

“

Since January 2024 until the end of October, players have participated in over 50 individual sessions with psychologists through the mental health service line, shedding light on the profound impact of the challenges faced within our rugby community.

WELL-BEING This developmental pillar encompasses all aspects of mental and emotional health and well-being, with subcategories for specific issues like vulnerabilities and mental-health awareness. a) All MyPlayers members have access to a confidential, dedicated mental-health and well-being service line (076 349 3409). This service gives players access to over 15 qualified psychologists around the country. As part of the players’ MyPlayers membership benefits, they receive four f ree consultations with psychologists to be used when they want to better equip themselves to cope with acute stress, anxiety, depression or any well-being-related issues. b) Mental health and well-being awareness and education are conducted through our monthly development newsletters, specific group sessions and one-on-one sessions with the PDMs and NPDM.

Since June 2022, we have seen a significant increase in the use of our mental-health service line, highlighting a pressing need for comprehensive support in this domain. Since January 2024 until the end of October, players have participated in over 50 individual sessions with psychologists through the mental health service line, shedding light on the profound impact of the challenges faced within our rugby community. This increased uptake in the mental-health service line not only emphasises the growing recognition of mental health as an essential aspect of overall well-being, but also points out the critical role our organisation plays in providing a safe space for individuals grappling with psychological distress. Our unwavering commitment to fostering mental health and well-being remains paramount, driving us to fortify our resources and expand our support network to better support those in need.

GROUNDED IN THE NATIONAL PLAYER DEVELOPMENT (NPD) PROGRAMME The National Player Development Manager works together with Player Development Managers (PDMs) based at the five international and two domestic franchises (Bulls, Lions, Western Province, Sharks, Cheetahs, Griquas, and Pumas) to develop and maintain a standard player development f ramework. This ensures that all unions consistently address player development with material grounded in the three pillars, safeguarding the players’ development outside of rugby and when they move f rom one union to another.

We also assist players who are contracted to play overseas by connecting them to the lead PDM/RPA in that country to allow for a more seamless transition and continuation of their development journey.

Moreover, the continuously evolving network of development benefit partners speaks volumes about the department’s concerted efforts to forge meaningful collaborations, paving the way for a more comprehensive and holistic approach to talent cultivation. The unwavering focus on innovation and collaboration has laid a strong foundation for continued success and advancement in the realm of player development, with a key focus on a player-centric development programme.

Annual Report | 2024

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PLAYER DEVELOPMENT MANAGERS Nicole Falconer (née Hayes), MyPlayers National Player Development Manager, leads a core team of seven Player Development Managers (PDMs) stationed at different teams across South Af rica.

Nicole Falconer Blitzboks, Springbok Women (7s & 15s), Emerging and Non-Franchises nicole@my-players.com 071 470 4901 Anina Coetzee Pumas anina0801@gmail.com 082 454 1770 Sally Joubert Cheetahs sallymyplayers@gmail.com 081 305 8675 Kelly-Anne Ramsden Blue Bulls kelly@pushplayhub.co.za 063 670 2794 Kirsten van Heerden Sharks kirsten@newtonagency.co.za 084 800 3322 Claus Kempen Griquas claus.kempen@gmail.com 082 555 9746 Bronwyn Dodds Lions bronwyn@bdoddsconsulting.co.za 083 274 1110 Alastair Theys WP alastairtheys@gmail.com 083 532 7730

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MYPL AYERS | The Rugby Players’ Organisation

ONE-ON-ONE INTERACTIONS AND GROUP SESSIONS (JULY - OCTOBER 2024) › WhatsApp: 2 506 › One-on-one sessions (in-person): 347 › One-on-one sessions (online): 231 › Group sessions: 14

EDUCATIONAL BENEFIT PARTNERS

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Communications The Communications Division ensures effective two-way communication between MyPlayers, the players, industry stakeholders, other stakeholders, and the public. It is also responsible for managing the organisation’s digital communication platforms.

2024 COMMUNICATIONS OVERVIEW 2024 MYPLAYERS MAGAZINE In 2024, MyPlayers published its digital magazine in November.

Some of the topics included in the magazine: › Eben Etzebeth: Legend in the making › Springboks Steven Kitshoff and Kwagga Smith on entrepreneurship › Vincent Tshituka on leading the Sharks to Currie Cup victory › From injury to Olympic glory: Tristan Leyds’ inspiring journey › Leading the whistle: Aimee Barrett-Theron’s rise in rugby › Cindy Booi: Leading Bok Women to new heights › Claus Kempen: From PDM to Paralympic guide runner › Balancing Act: How Darian Hock manages rugby, law and family › Guiding the Bulls: Bernado Botha’s S&C impact › Behind the Ruck: A fresh rugby podcast by Juan and Rudy OTHER PUBLICATIONS IN 2024 › The Organisational Booklet › Craven Week Brochure › Springbok Starter Pack › The Players’ Guide

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MYPL AYERS | The Rugby Players’ Organisation

MYPLAYERS APP Launched in 2019, the MyPlayers app has become an essential communications tool between the Players’ Organisation and its members, serving as the primary platform to upload, review, and manage commercial payments to players.

In 2024, our developers introduced an entirely new MyPlayers app, enhancing both functionality and performance. This updated app includes exciting new features such as: LATEST UPDATES ON THE APP › New and improved MyPlayers App – Built for enhanced performance and a smoother user experience.

› My Annual Score Feature – Track your performance stats, including minutes and games played, development meetings attended, collective commercial earnings, pension fund contributions, and total rest weeks.

DIGITAL COMMUNICATIONS PLATFORMS @myplayersrugby @MyPlayersRugby MyPlayersRugby MyPlayers Rugby MyPlayers Rugby Whatsapp Communications +27 72 875 5671 www.myplayers.co.za

Annual Report | 2024

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Financial Services This division provides and assists with independent advice on the core group financial products available to South Africa’s professional rugby players. Product development, reviews, day-to-day administration and the management of these products are part of this function within the organisation. MyPlayers Financial Services has been up and running since 2014 and has shown tremendous growth and expansion in the services offered to players.

KEY INITIATIVES IN 2024

RUGBY PLAYERS’ PENSION FUND AND ADMINISTRATION PROVIDER REVIEW MyPlayers performed a full analysis and review of the Rugby Players’ Pension Fund in 2024.

The default investment portfolio and administration services done by Momentum FundsAtWork were investigated and compared with Peer Group Averages, specifically that of 10X and AllanGray. The performance and total costs of the Rugby Players’ Pension Fund continue to be the best offering to players, as found by the independent investment specialists, GraySwan.

This provides all players with the peace of mind that their growing retirement savings are well managed and, over time, creating above-average, market-related value.

HOLLARD APPOINTED AS NEW PLAYER INSURANCE COVER PROVIDER Hollard Corporate has been appointed to insure the risk of long-term and catastrophic injuries of all players f rom 1 January 2025.

A thorough review process was followed in 2024, analysing different insurance products from various providers. This ensures continued product relevance for the players’ injury needs through relevant criteria and cost analysis.

34

MYPL AYER S | The Rugby Players’ Organisation

National Player Relationship Manager, Isma-eel Dollie with Kurt-Lee Arendse.

THE PLAYERS’ CORE FINANCIAL PRODUCTS FOR 2024 IN REVIEW

Above: Financial literacy workshop with Lions Development players.

INJURY BENEFIT (MOMENTUM)

All professional rugby players in South Africa must be members of a medical aid scheme and gap cover before they are allowed to participate in professional rugby training and competition at their respective employers. MyPlayers has built strong relationships with various service providers and negotiated no underwriting requirements and free concessions for players. Simeka Health is our appointed specialist advisor. They continue to provide the players with advice regarding which schemes would be best suited to their needs as professional rugby players as well as for their individual needs.

This benefit is set up to protect the players’ income while they are unable to play rugby for a certain period due to an injury, illness or accident.

STATISTICS

MEDICAL AID AND GAP COVER (SIMEKA)

› Approximate number of players covered by the injury benefit - 887 › Number of injuries covered through injury insurance - injuries reported - 74 › Number of serious injuries in 2022/23 (> 3 months rehab period) - 37 › Average rehab period for serious injuries - 8 months

STATISTICS

› Approximate number of players advised on medical aid selection in 2024 - 598 › Approximate number of players advised on gap cover in 2024 - 920

Annual Report | 2024

35

Career guidance session with Springbok Women.

THE PLAYERS’ PENSION FUND The professional rugby players have their own retirement savings mechanism, the Players’ Pension Fund. Players contribute to the fund monthly. This fund allows players to benefit from additional tax deductions on contributions, performance reviews and a lower investment cost structure.

STATISTICS

› Number of players who contribute to the Players’ Pension Fund - 962 › Total approximate contribution to the Players’ Pension Fund in 2024 R80 million › Total Players’ Pension Fund value (anticipated 31 December 2024) R460 million

GRAYSWAN The players appointed an independent investment specialist, Grayswan, to analyse and review the performance and cost of the Rugby Players’ Pension Fund during 2024. In addition to this, GraySwan also assisted the MyPlayers Group Investment Committee with the group investment portfolio managed on behalf of the players.

SHORT-TERM INSURANCE: CAR AND HOME (CTRL) MyPlayers teamed up with Ctrl, an award-winning digital insurance provider to help rugby players with their car and home insurance needs. Ctrl provides real quotes from SA’s top insurers for players to compare. Their algorithm makes it easy to see which insurer is best suited to a player’s needs.

FINANCIAL SECTOR CONDUCT AUTHORITY (FSCA) The MyPlayers Financial Services division is an authorised financial services provider with the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSP46999).

For any comments or complaints about our service, members are invited to contact us at comments@my-players.com. We also provide contact details for the FAIS Ombud: 2nd Floor Orange Building Kasteel Park Office Park Cnr of Nossob and Jochemus Streets Erasmuskloof Pretoria +27 12 762 5000/ +27 12 470 9080 +27 12 470 9097/ +27 12 348 3447 P.O. Box 74571, Lynwood Ridge, 0040 info@faisombud.co.za www.faisombud.co.za

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MYPL AYER S | The Rugby Players’ Organisation

Annual Report | 2024

5

The Players’ Charity In 2013, South Af rica’s professional rugby players recognised the need to establish their own registered benefit organisation.

The Players’ Charity provides annual funding to support various charitable causes.. Managed by MyPlayers, the charity ensures that all donations align with the players’ mandate and governed by the Public Benefit Organisation Act.

Mandisi Tshonti and our Industrial Board President, Lukhanyo Am, presenting the Players’ Charity cheque.

2024 ACTIVATIONS

record-breaking R510 192 was raised and donated during a memorable Golf Day at De Zalze Golf Estate in Stellenbosch. Springbok and Stormers star, Deon Fourie, proudly presented the cheque to Fund Chairman Jean de Villiers, recognising the Fund’s exceptional work in supporting injured players and their families.

CHRIS BURGER PETRO JACKSON PLAYERS’ FUND

ANNUAL PLAYERS FUND WOMEN’S DAY BREAKFAST

The Chris Burger Petro Jackson Players’ Fund is a non-profit organisation dedicated to supporting seriously injured rugby players. On International Day of Charity (5 September 2024), a

On 15 August 2024, female staff of MyPlayers gathered at the Pepperclub Hotel in Cape Town to celebrate the annual Chris Burger Petro Jackson Players’ Fund Women’s Day breakfast. This inspiring event brought together guests for a morning of sisterhood and purpose, supporting the Fund’s ongoing work for injured rugby players. The breakfast event featured lively raffles, exciting prizes and a charity auction that drew generous bids from attendees,with all proceeds going towards the Players’ Fund. The MyPlayers team was proud to support this cause, sharing in the spirit of giving back and honouring the resilience of rugby players.

MyPlayers staff members, Danika Groenewald, Helga Esau, Nicole Falconer, Tracey Cable, Welmarie van der Spuy, Reghana Harneker, Laykin Rudolph and Lungi Kokose at the Chris Burger Petro Jackson Fund Women’s Day breakfast.

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MYPL AYER S | The Rugby Players’ Organisation

MyPlayers Awards The end of 2024 marked a proud milestone for MyPlayers as we celebrated the winners of this year’s awards. These remarkable individuals, representing categories such as Men’s Fifteens, Springbok Sevens and Springbok Women, were recognised by their peers for their exceptional contributions and dedication to the game throughout the year.

The MyPlayers Awards winners were announced via media release and social media in December 2024.

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2023 WINNERS

2024 WINNERS

Men’s Fifteen’s Players’ Player of the Year: EBEN ETZEBETH (other nominees, Kurt-Lee Arendse, Frans Malherbe, Manie Libbok, Damian Willemse)

Men’s Fifteen’s Players’ Player of the Year: CHESLIN KOLBE (other nominees, Eben Etzebeth, Damian de Allende, Ox Nche, Pieter-Steph du Toit)

Men’s Sevens Players’ Player of the Year: SHILTON VAN WYK (other nominees, Christie Grobbelaar, Ricardo Duarttee)

Men’s Sevens Players’ Player of the Year: SELVYN DAVIDS (other nominees, Quewin Nortje, Ryan Oosthuizen)

Women’s Players’ Player of the Year: RIGHTS MKHARI (other nominees, Nadine Roos, Babalwa Latsha)

Women’s Players’ Player of the Year: VAINAH UBISI (other nominees, Nadine Roos, Libbie Janse van Rensburg, Ayanda Malinga)

MYPL AYER S | The Rugby Players’ Organisation

info@my-players.com 066 307 5474 Tygerberg Business Park 163 Uys Krige Drive Plattekloof Cape Town South Africa WORKING HOURS Monday – Friday 08:30 – 16:30

South African Rugby Players’ Organisation

Empowering players, contributing to the game