GRPF Beyond The Game - RUPA Application 2025

BEYOND THE GAME AUSTRALIA GLOBAL RUGBY PLAYERS FOUNDATION GRANT APPLICATION

BETTER PEOPLE BETTER PLAYERS BETTER LIVES

GLOBAL RUGBY PLAYERS FOUNDATION SUBMISSION SUBMITTED BY:

THE RUGBY UNION PLAYERS’ ASSOCIATION (RUPA) ABN: 61 115 979 068 10 MALLET STREET CAMPERDOWN SYDNEY NSW 2050

CONTENTS CONTENTS EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

4

COMPANY PROFILE

5

THE ADVANTAGE LINE

6

RUPA PLAYER SERVICES

8

RUPA BOARD

10

RUPA STAFF

11

EXPERTISE AND TRACKING

12

PAST PLAYER SURVEY

14

PAST PLAYER TESTIMONIALS

15

BEYOND THE GAME PROGRAM

17

BTG COMMITTEE

18

PROGRAM PLAN BEYOND THE GAME CAMP

19

PROGRAM PLAN TELUS HEALTH & WELLBEING

22

COMMUNICATIONS PLAN

26

ADDITIONAL RESEARCH

27

BUDGET

28

CONCLUSION

29

3

EXECUTIVE EXECUTIVESUMMARY SUMMARY RUPA is delighted to have the opportunity to submit an application to partner with Global Rugby Players Foundation (GRPF), to provide past players with amplified support to better their lives. In recognizing the unique challenges faced by former players in an Australian context, RUPA has developed an evidence-based support program in alignment with our mutual mission to help players achieve their potential, beyond the game.

In June 2025, for the purpose of understanding core past player needs in a current climate, RUPA collected data from a survey sent to over 1000 former Australian rugby union players, which highlighted many areas for improved transitional support. The proposed application utilizes these findings to develop a robust program in assisting them on a long-term scale. In direct alignment line with GRPF’s Investment Principles, RUPA has created a framework that aims to proactively support players through the following program initiatives: Delivered in partnership with RUPA’s partners, players in their early transition phase will attend a ‘Beyond The Game’ development camp in Sydney, where they are provided with comprehensive support services and resources to empower them to face post-rugby challenges, particularly those associated with ‘loss of identity’.

Delivered in partnership with Rugby AU’s EAP Provider, TELUS Health, past players are given the opportunity to attend a health and wellbeing exhibition, where they are provided with oneon-one and group medical appointments.

The Beyond the Game program will be open to all past player RUPA members, which currently includes those who were contracted full-time in Super Rugby, Sevens, and the Wallaroos during the professional era. There is a clear intention to broaden the program in the future to include Super W players as they become full-time athletes.

4

ABOUT RUPA ABOUTRUPA The Rugby Union Players’ Association (RUPA) was established in October 1995 by a united playing group, following the global shift of Rugby Union from amateur to professional sport. The creation of RUPA marked a pivotal moment in Australian Rugby, as players recognised the need for an independent body that could represent their collective voice, safeguard their interests, and support their long-term wellbeing

MISSIO PURPOSESE MISSIONN&&PURPO RUPA’s core mission is to promote and protect the interests of Australia’s professional Rugby players, both during their playing careers and as they transition into life beyond the game. The association exists to ensure that players have access to fair working conditions, a safe and supportive professional environment, and robust career development opportunities.

MEMBE RSHIP MEMBERSHIP RUPA represents 100% of Australia’s full-time professional Rugby players, including members of the Wallabies, Wallaroos, Super Rugby clubs, and Australia’s national Sevens programs. The association also actively supports emerging and past players through targeted initiatives and services.

KEY ONS FUNCTIONS KEYFUNCTI RUPA undertakes a wide range of functions on behalf of its members, including but not limited to: Collective Bargaining: Negotiating the collective bargaining agreement (CBA) with Rugby Australia and other stakeholders to secure fair remuneration, benefits, and workplace rights.

Player Development and Transition: Delivering evidence-based programs that focus on education, career readiness, financial literacy, mental wellbeing, and personal development, ensuring players are equipped for life after Rugby.

Health and Wellbeing: Advocating for best practice medical care, injury management, mental health support, and access to specialist services throughout and beyond a player's career.

Legal and Contractual Support: Providing guidance and advocacy in areas such as contracts, disputes, integrity matters, and intellectual property rights.

5

THE THEADVANTAGE ADVANTAGELINE LINEPROGAM PROGAM Strategic Alignment RUPA is an active member of both the International Rugby Players (IRP) and World Rugby, ensuring operations align with international best practice and that the voice of Australian players is represented on the global stage.

Since its inception, RUPA has played an instrumental role in shaping the professional Rugby landscape in Australia through The Advantage Line Program. Through proactive advocacy, the program delivers meaningful reforms in player welfare, financial sustainability, and post-career opportunities. The program continues to evolve alongside the game and core needs of players, guided by its founding principle: to act in the best interests of the players - past, present and future. The program is implemented within each club by a full-time Player Development Manager who works closely with the playing group around 6 key pillars: Career & Education, Wellbeing, Financial Management, Cultural Awareness, Personal Toolkit and Integrity & Obligations.

PROGRAM PROGRAMOUTCOMES OUTCOMES The program works with

The program aims to

players to develop a long-

produce people who

term life plan across

are better equipped

multiple interconnected

and fortified for the

pillars, and this further

challenges of life

allows participants to

including living within

recognise how Rugby is

the unusual context of

integrated into their

being a professional

greater life goals.

Rugby player.

The program has mutually beneficial outcomes for

The program aims to

both the player and for the

develop well-rounded

game in Australia, as

players who are able to

research demonstrates that

drive their own success

those athletes who engage

while also being

in off-field professional

comfortable in seeking

development tend to

help and being

remain in the game for

resourceful.

longer and at a higher level.

6

For each of the RUPA pillars, there is a foundational set of outcomes that PDM’s drive in each of their clubs. The launching pad of the program starts at the Buildcorp Induction Camp for first year contracted players. The induction process is designed to increase a players capacity to adapt to their new high-performance environment.

The Advantage Line program focuses on creating skills for life that underpin being better rugby players and better people. Part of this is creating well-rounded individuals who are able to understand their goals, and then allowing the program to provide the skills and support to help each person move towards them. Individual goals are not just set within rugby, but helping players to envision what a life after rugby looks like. From as early as the induction process, they are asked to consider the values they would like to hold in driving their life forward, and develop strategies to the challenges that lie ahead in high-performance environments.

The Advantage Line ensures that every player: Is provided with financial management skills to enable them to make the most of their money.

Receives regular mental health awareness training and coping skills to deal with the challenges of high-performance environments.

Has access to a level of complimentary psychological support to deal with issues around mental health, gambling, alcohol, disordered eating, etc.

Has access to a training and education reimbursement for their professional development.

Has a support person, through the PDM, embedded within the team who remains an independent and confidential resource.

Is provided with cultural awareness training to enable environments that drive a sense of belonging for people from all cultures.

Is provided with the opportunity to develop goal-setting skills that help form healthy habits and drive a vision for rugby & life.

Is provided with a career/recruitment expert to develop potential career opportunities for life after rugby, if appropriate.

7

RUPA PL RUPAPLA PLAYER DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

TELUS HEALTH

PDM's will provide assistance to you such as wellbeing, mental health support, career advice, transitioning, career exploration and planning etc.

Access to 6 counselling sessions per issue from Rugby AU’s Partner, TELUS Health.

Download the TELUS Health One app

LONDON ACADEMY OF TRADING

BDO

Access to VIP pricing for short courses, diplomas, and advanced certifications in financial trading.

Financial planning consultations and financial health checks from RUPA's partner BDO, are delivered at VIP pricing from financial specialists.

HARVEY NORMAN DISCOUNT

ROBERT WALTERS Access one on one career counselling with Robert Walters, in consultation with your PDM.

Players have access to VIP pricing at Harvey Norman.

8

AYER RESOURCES LAYER RESOURCES(CURRENT) (CURRENT) MOLEMAP

TRAINING AND EDUCATION GRANT

All players have access to complimentary skin cancer checks, delivered by MoleMap.

All CPS and WTS players have access to up to $5000 per year.

The reimbursement can be used towards approved extracurricular activities such as university courses, short courses, white cards, etc.

EVERYTHING MENTAL TOUGHNESS

CAREER-ENDING INSURANCE

Access to VIP pricing to complete the MTQPlus assessment test.

If you suffer a career ending injury, the insurance is there to safeguard this event.

OAKLEY AND CARVE PRODUCTS

NETWORKING EVENTS

All players have access to VIP pricing on Oakley and Carve products.

All players have access to RUPA’s professional network of industry leaders, to further create career options for life after rugby.

9

RUPA RUPABOARD BOARD

10

RUPA RUPASTAFF STAFF

11

EXPERTISE EXPERTISEAND ANDTRACKING TRACKING PDM’s work closely with players across their career to develop individual plans to assist them during their career and when it’s time to prepare for life beyond the game. Recent initiatives include the appointment of Robert Walters Australia as RUPA’s Official Recruitment Partner who have assisted six past players into finding new careers through their professional network in the past 2 years. They also deliver vocational career workshops to develop a player’s CV, interview skills and tips for networking. Throughout the partnership, their message to players remains consistent:

PROFESSIONAL PROFESSIONALATHLETES ATHLETESPOSSESS POSSESSMANY MANYTRANSFERABLE TRANSFERABLESKILLS SKILLSTHAT THATALL ALLEMPLOYERS EMPLOYERSFIND FIND VALUE VALUEININ RUPA currently provides players with an exit interview when leaving a club to head overseas or transitioning. This interview acts as a planning document to allow players to set goals into their next chapter of life and for their Player Development Manager to understand what support will be needed. RUPA then provides players with a complimentary one-on-one appointment with Robert Walters, who assist them in scouting new career options, with a view on securing employment.

Following this, RUPA provides players with a transition booklet that includes some of the experiences of past players as well as a suite of support services that are available through RUPA’s partnerships. It also includes a link to mental health support (6 complimentary counselling sessions), through Rugby Australia’s Employment Assistance Program (EAP), TELUS Health. A social mapping exercise is also included to help players understand their social identity and support networks. The player is then provided with access to the World Rugby Brain Health Assessment, where they undergo a health screening process to recommend modifiable lifestyle habits with a view to improving quality of life, or providing referrals for further testing if required.

12

AWARENESS AWARENESS--2025 2025PAST PASTPLAYER PLAYERSURVEY SURVEY Key Findings In June 2025, RUPA distributed the ‘Beyond The Game – Past Player Support Survey’ to the entire database of former professional players from the past 30 years. The primary aim of the survey was to gather actionable insights into the current needs of past players in order to inform the development of a tailored support program that responds to those findings and aligns with GRPF’s investment principles.

The survey was delivered via email and promoted through RUPA’s digital communication channels, ensuring accessibility across its national network. A total of 76 responses were received from past players located across Australia, representing a wide range of ages, playing eras, and post-rugby experiences. Preliminary analysis of the results highlighted significant demand for increased health and wellbeing services, as well as a more structured program for assisting players as they depart rugby in the early transition phase.

100% of respondents expressed interest into accessing specialised health and wellbeing expos in a group setting. Below outlines a breakdown of the specific medical services that were of most interest:

70 60 50

%

40 30 20 10

Vi si Pr on ev en ta tio Lu n ng H ea lth N ut rit io n ry

ju In

H

Br ai

n

H

ea lth ea rt H ea lth Sk in Ca nc Sl er ee p H ea lth

0

13

It is important to note that changes to an athlete’s social group memberships throughout the process of transition directly influences their sense of self or identity, which can be critical for an athlete’s health and wellbeing. A recent study done on elite cricket players (Rees et al, 2022), revealed that former players who belonged to social/support groups, had significant positive changes to their general health and performance.

This is evident through many players commenting on the benefits of ‘community’ through ‘past players helping other past players’, and creating a cycle of support. The strong response around brain health and heart health, reflects increased awareness and concern around the long-term effects of concussion and cardiac issues associated with retiring from elite sport. Skin cancer checks, sleep health and vision were also highly ranked. In addition, injuries acquired during playing careers were found to impact wellbeing years after with one player stating: “My injuries from playing have impacted my wellbeing/standard of living for years afterwards.

I have some difficulty playing with my first child and finding hobbies that will keep me healthy.

I also developed unhealthy eating habits / poor knowledge of proper diet away from the game, and am only starting to get back to a healthier weight years after playing. More work needs to be done for post-playing health and safety.”

Other data collected focused on building fundamental ‘skills for life’ around managing finances, vocational development, career progression and upskilling, with players interested in the following learnings: 60

50

%

40

30

20

10

Pu b

g ki n ea

lic

Sp

Co u

rs

es

g tin hi n ac Co

in

14

g

ng

In ve s

ki

g/

N

ng M

en to r

Sa vi

& g in

et w or

on ey M

m op

ev el

D dg et

Bu

Le ad

er s

hi p

Bu

yi n

g

Pr op

er t

en t

y

0

PAST PASTPLAYER PLAYERTESTIMONIALS TESTIMONIALS “SOME “SOME OF OF THE THE MOST MOST IMPORTANT IMPORTANT CONVERSATIONS CONVERSATIONS I’VE I’VE HAD HAD SINCE SINCE RETIRING RETIRING HAVE HAVE HAPPENED HAPPENED AT AT THOSE THOSE PAST PAST PLAYER PLAYER BREAKFASTS. BREAKFASTS. THEY’VE THEY’VE HELPED HELPED ME ME RECONNECT, RECONNECT, SHARE SHARE STUFF, STUFF, AND AND REALISE REALISE I’M I’M NOT NOT ALONE ALONE IN IN THE THE UPS UPS AND AND DOWNS DOWNS AFTER AFTER FOOTY.” FOOTY.”

“THE “THE TRANSITION/NETWORKING TRANSITION/NETWORKING NIGHT NIGHT WAS WAS AN AN AMAZING AMAZING EVENT EVENT AT AT ROBERT ROBERT WALTERS, WALTERS, IT IT ALLOWED ALLOWED THE THE OLDER OLDER BOYS BOYS IN IN THE THE SQUAD SQUAD TO TO MAKE MAKE SOME SOME NETWORKS NETWORKS AND AND CONNECTIONS CONNECTIONS FROM FROM A A WIDE WIDE RANGE RANGE OF OF PROFESSIONALS PROFESSIONALS IN IN DIFFERING DIFFERING INDUSTRIES. INDUSTRIES. CAN'T CAN'T THANK THANK RUPA RUPA AND AND ALL ALL THOSE THOSE THAT THAT WERE WERE THERE THERE ENOUGH ENOUGH FOR FOR PUTTING PUTTING IT IT TOGETHER.” TOGETHER.”

-BEN -BEN ALEXANDER ALEXANDER (WALLABY (WALLABY #825) #825)

HUGH HUGH SINCLAIR SINCLAIR (FORMER (FORMER RUPA RUPA PLAYER PLAYER DIRECTOR) DIRECTOR)

“HAVING “HAVING THE THE RIGHT RIGHT PEOPLE PEOPLE IN IN YOUR YOUR CORNER CORNER DURING DURING THAT THAT TIME TIME IS IS INVALUABLE. INVALUABLE. IT’S IT’S NOT NOT JUST JUST ABOUT ABOUT CONNECTING CONNECTING WITH WITH FORMER FORMER PLAYERS PLAYERS OR OR INDUSTRY STAKEHOLDERS IT’S ABOUT INDUSTRY STAKEHOLDERS - IT’S ABOUT KNOWING KNOWING THAT THAT THERE THERE IS IS GENUINE GENUINE CARE CARE FOR FOR YOU YOU BEYOND BEYOND THE THE GAME. GAME. A A HOLISTIC HOLISTIC APPROACH APPROACH THAT THAT SUPPORTS SUPPORTS YOUR YOUR FINANCIAL, FINANCIAL, PHYSICAL, PHYSICAL, AND AND EMOTIONAL EMOTIONAL WELLBEING WELLBEING GIVES GIVES YOU YOU THE THE CONFIDENCE CONFIDENCE TO TO GROW GROW INTO INTO THE THE BEST BEST VERSION VERSION OF OF YOURSELF YOURSELF IN IN THE THE NEXT NEXT PHASE PHASE OF OF LIFE. LIFE.

“THE “THE RUPA RUPA AUSSIE AUSSIE 7’S 7’S EVENT EVENT PROVIDED PROVIDED AN AN EXCELLENT EXCELLENT OPPORTUNITY OPPORTUNITY TO TO EXPAND EXPAND MY MY NETWORK NETWORK BEYOND BEYOND RUGBY. RUGBY. LEVERAGING LEVERAGING RUPA’S RUPA’S EXTENSIVE EXTENSIVE CONNECTIONS, CONNECTIONS, THEY THEY CURATED CURATED A A SELECTION SELECTION OF OF INDUSTRY INDUSTRY LEADERS, LEADERS, TAILORED TAILORED TO TO THE THE AUSSIE AUSSIE 7’S 7’S PLAYERS PLAYERS INTERESTS. INTERESTS. FOLLOWING FOLLOWING ADDITIONAL ADDITIONAL MEETINGS MEETINGS AFTER AFTER THE THE NETWORKING NETWORKING EVENT, EVENT, II WAS WAS ABLE ABLE TO TO SECURE SECURE FUTURE FUTURE EMPLOYMENT EMPLOYMENT AT AT CBA, CBA, THANKS THANKS TO TO THE THE RELATIONSHIP RELATIONSHIP II DEVELOPED. DEVELOPED.

INITIATIVES INITIATIVES LIKE LIKE THESE THESE SHOW SHOW THAT THAT YOU’RE YOU’RE NOT NOT FORGOTTEN FORGOTTEN ONCE ONCE THE THE BOOTS BOOTS ARE ARE HUNG HUNG UP. UP. YOU’RE YOU’RE STILL STILL PART PART OF OF THE THE RUGBY RUGBY FAMILY, FAMILY, AND AND THAT MAKES A HUGE DIFFERENCE.” THAT MAKES A HUGE DIFFERENCE.”

II HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND RECOMMEND ENGAGING ENGAGING AND AND UTILIZING UTILIZING RUPA’S RUPA’S SUPPORT SUPPORT SERVICES SERVICES AVAILABLE AVAILABLE TO TO PLAYERS PLAYERS LOOKING LOOKING TO TO GROW GROW THEIR THEIR NETWORK NETWORK OUTSIDE OUTSIDE OF OF RUGBY.” RUGBY.”

-JAMES -JAMES HANSON HANSON (WALLABY (WALLABY #865) #865)

NICK NICK MALOUF MALOUF (FORMER (FORMER RUGBY RUGBY SEVENS SEVENS CAPTAIN) CAPTAIN)

15

A BEYOND THE GAME CAMP WOULD BE A GREAT INITIATIVE. HELP PLAYERS TRANSITION INTO THEIR NEXT PHASE. MAYBE GET PAST PLAYERS FROM A VARIETY OF INDUSTRIES TO COME SPEAK?

I LOVE THIS. PLAYERS NEED HELP TRANSITIONING AND ALL THE THINGS MENTIONED COULD BE VALUABLE TO SO MANY. I WOULD ALSO LIKE TO GET MY PILOTS LICENSE FOR SPRAYING AND COMMERCIAL FLYING.

FACILITATING SUPPORT AND COMMUNITY FOR PEOPLE GOING THROUGH TRANSITION FROM PLAYING RUGBY INTO GENERAL LIFE WOULD BE GREAT. PROVIDING OPPORTUNITIES FOR GUYS TO CONNECT AND HAVE A SENSE OF PLACE AS THAT IS OFTEN A BIG HOLE LEFT WHEN GOING THROUGH THAT CHANGE.

I BELIEVE THERE COULD BE A BETTER RELATIONSHIP WITH THE WORLD PLAYERS ASSOCIATION AND RUPA, WHICH WOULD SEE COHESIVE PROGRAMS THAT ASSIST AUSTRALIAN PLAYERS RETIRING OVERSEAS AND TRANSITIONING BACK TO AUSTRALIA.

CREATING A NETWORKING PLATFORM FOR ALL PAST PLAYERS TO SEEK SPECIFIC AREAS OF INTEREST, SUPPORT OR PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT WOULD BE VALUABLE.

PLEASE CONTINUE TO PROVIDE OPPORTUNITIES FOR PAST PLAYERS TO ENGAGE. IT IS REALLY WORTHWHILE, ALTHOUGH PAST PLAYERS MAY NOT ALWAYS FEEL COMFORTABLE DEPENDING ON THEIR PERSONAL CIRCUMSTANCES AND FRAME OF MIND. I DON'T THINK YOU CAN FORCE THESE THINGS.

MY INJURIES FROM PLAYING HAVE IMPACTED MY WELLBEING/STANDARD OF LIVING FOR YEARS AFTERWARDS. I HAVE SOME DIFFICULTY PLAYING WITH MY FIRST CHILD AND FINDING HOBBIES THAT WILL KEEP ME HEALTHY. I ALSO DEVELOPED UNHEALTHY EATING HABITS / POOR KNOWLEDGE OF PROPER DIET AWAY FROM THE GAME, AND AM ONLY STARTING TO GET BACK TO A HEALTHIER WEIGHT YEARS AFTER PLAYING. MORE WORK NEEDS TO BE DONE FOR POST-PLAYING HEALTH AND SAFETY.

I THINK THE CAMP WOULD BE REALLY IMPORTANT FOR PLAYERS RETURNING HOME AFTER RETIRING FROM OVERSEAS. (IF THEY HAD A SOLID SUPER RUGBY CAREER IN AUS) 16

BEYOND BEYONDTHE THEGAME GAME PROGRAM PROGRAM The proposed program is structured into two-part initiatives, designed to directly address areas of past player needs, identified through the survey. It specifically targets two distinct groups: players within the early stages of retirement (within 1–3 years) and the broader cohort of past players seeking renewed direction, health and wellbeing support, or re-engagement.

The program also includes funding for Skoosh; a professional athlete wellbeing database to allow us to better track and monitor the development of players in transition. We can then measure the engagement across our Beyond the Game program. Having this database provides information for our quarterly reports to GRPF and is seen as critical in measuring the ongoing success of the program.

17

BEYOND BEYONDTHE THEGAME GAMECOMMITTEE COMMITTEE The Beyond the Game Committee (BTGC) is a player-led advisory group formed to guide the development and delivery of RUPA’s Beyond The Game Program, built with the voices of those it’s designed to serve and generate awareness.

Formation of the Beyond the Game Committee (BTGC)

PAST PLAYER REPRESENTATIVES (MORE TO BE CONFIRMED)

JAMES HANSON

ANANYA BHINDI

BEN ALEXANDER

JAMES HOLBECK

MOANA LEILUA

As the Implementation and

As both a Past Player and GM for

As the Implementation Lead for

Program Lead, Ananya will oversee

Player Development, James

RUPA’s new Past Player Support

the operational rollout, stakeholder

Holbeck will play a central role in

Program, Moana will assist in

coordination, and development of

shaping and delivering RUPA’s Past

the oversight of operational

the program. This role ensures that

Player Support Program in

rollout and past player

the program delivers against its

partnership with the Global Rugby

communications, focusing on

strategic objectives, remains

Players Foundation (GRPF).

relationship building and

player-led, and is grounded in

Leveraging his lived experience as

connection. As the current PDM

action-based practice. Ananya will

a former Wallaby, James will act as

for the Wallabies, Moana will

also lead the communication and

a past-player voice in all program

act as an additional lead point

logistics of national engagement

planning, ensuring initiatives are

of contact for players who

events as outlined in the proposal

aligned. James will also act as the

have recently retired and assist

(e.g., breakfasts, medical expos,

first point of contact for past-

them in their initial stages of

and social functions).

players seeking direct support or

the ‘Beyond The Game

mentoring from RUPA.

Program’.

18

PROGRAM PROGRAMPLAN PLAN--BEYOND BEYONDTHE THEGAME GAMECAMP CAMP Transitioning Players - Beyond The Game Camp The first component of the program focuses on transitional support for players considering their future and in an early transition stage (1-3 years). This is achieved through the delivery of a 1.5 day ‘Beyond The Game Camp’ in Sydney, where players participate in immersive workshops, peer learning & story telling sessions, and guided personal development planning, delivered in collaboration with RUPA’s partners and stakeholders. The camp aims to equip players with core skills for life and confidence to succeed off the field.

Players will be provided with the opportunity to gain a Global Certification in Project Management (delivered by partner Dr Dave Arthur from the Institute of Sport). The course is designed to facilitate a ‘project management approach’ to transition, and provide structure to existing transferable skills, while addressing the unique challenges of this major change. Past players from a variety of industries will also be present to share stories of their experience when departing rugby, and ultimately reframing the narrative of ‘transition’. This is vital in ensuring that players feel supported by not only RUPA, but other former players and generating the cycle of support.

Some of the offerings are listed below: Players will undergo a self-authoring and social identity mapping program to help understand themselves and their future self, while also examining how their past rugby experience has shaped who they are today (delivered in collaboration with former past players).

A financial health check, delivered by RUPA’s Official Audit and Tax Partner BDO, to cover areas including budgeting, savings, debt management, superannuation, and investment basics.

A career-readiness workshop from RUPA’s Official Recruitment Partner, Robert Walters, to develop CV and interview skills as well as a recruitment process to secure a new career (including potential employment at Robert Walters). They also offer participants one-on-one recruitment services.

Rugby AU’s EAP provider and partner, TELUS Health, will provide past players with an overall health check as well as access to the TELUS HealthONE app containing 6 free complimentary counselling/psychologist sessions, per wellbeing issue.

RUPA‘s Partner, iSport, will provide players with the option to opt into a Global Project Management course.

Click brochure to view a full breakdown of the course requirements ->

19

IMPLEMENTATION IMPLEMENTATION--BEYOND BEYONDTHE THEGAME GAMECAMP CAMP This experience is supported by ongoing structured follow ups by RUPA and iSport (for those players who opt in), both online and in person throughout the year to ensure that development progress is tracked. This is to ensure accountability, measure impact, and maintain connection.

In the survey, players outlined that ‘vulnerability’ would play a significant factor in lack of attendance. Reframing the narrative from a ‘transition camp’ to ‘high performance development, off the field’ will combat this through increased awareness that the experience is not about fixing problems, but about equipping elite athletes with the tools, networks, and mindset to thrive when they eventually leave rugby. Additionally, amplifying the narrative through RUPA’s past player representatives and other former players will position this as a proactive next step in their professional journey rather than a reactive response to retirement.

The implementation of RUPA’s Beyond the Game Camp is a multi-phase process designed to ensure that former professional players can access meaningful support mechanisms in a connected setting. The program’s effectiveness will be evaluated through surveys, focus groups, and reporting towards the end of the calendar year, with findings both informing and amplifying future program improvements.

Beyond The Game Camp - Implementation Plan 2025 - Phase 1 Task

Description

Lead

Timeline

Beyond The Game Working Group

Engage past player representatives, RUPA staff, BTG Committee

James Holbeck

1 Sept 2025

Co-Design Beyond The Game Camp Program

Structure 1.5-day format with commercial partners, workshops, peer sessions, and networking.

Ananya Bhindi

15 Sept 2025

Selection of Participants

Each year, PDM’s inform HQ of transitioning players and potential late career players, which is added to RUPA’s database. This includes players without contracts who haven’t yet decided their future.

RUPA Staff

22 Sept 2025

Contact Past Players from the past 3 years

- EMS communication (direct email) with personalised invitations and program overview.

- Detailed outline of what the camp involves.

Ananya Bhindi Moana Leilua

29 Sept 2025

Confirm Location & Dates

Secure venue for residential camp (Holiday Inn Potts Point and Tattersalls Club)

Ananya Bhindi

6 Oct 2025

20

IMPLEMENTATION IMPLEMENTATION--BEYOND BEYONDTHE THEGAME GAMECAMP CAMP Beyond The Game Camp - Implementation Plan 2025- Phase 2 Task

Description

Lead

Timeline

Finalise numbers

Finalise total numbers of past players attending (estimated 10-20 in 2025).

Ananya Bhindi

13 Oct 2025

Launch Communications Campaign

Use rebranded messaging to promote program: - "Beyond the Game" - "High performance development off the field"

Ananya Bhindi

20 Oct 2025

Engage Past Player Ambassadors

Communicate video testimonials of past player ambassadors endorsing the program

BTG Working Committee

3 Nov 2025

Host Info Session (Webinar)

Online Q&A to de-risk participation and answer questions

James Holbeck

10 Nov 2025

Beyond The Game Camp - Implementation Plan 2025 - Phase 3 Task

Description

Lead

Timeline

Deliver Beyond The Game Camp

1.5-day program: identity shift, financial and health check-ins, peer stories, goal-setting

BTG Working Committee

3 Dec 2025

Beyond The Game Camp Survey

Survey all attendees to be reviewed by the BTG Committee

Ananya Bhindi

3 Dec 2025

Annual BDO Rugby Players Lunch

All past players at camp to attend the Annual BDO Rugby Players Lunch to be presented on stage.

Ananya Bhindi

4 Dec 2025

Launch Follow-Up Schedule

Schedule 3–6 and 12-month check ins post camp

BTG Committee

5 Jan 2025

21

PROGRAM PROGRAMPLAN PLAN--HEALTH HEALTH&&WELLBEING WELLBEING TELUS Health Medical Expo - Health and Wellbeing Beyond The Game The second component of the program expands into preventative health and wellbeing services for wider past players, provided by TELUS Health, the provider of Rugby AU’s Employment Assistance Program (EAP). This will be targeted to the broader cohort of RUPA Past Players to keep them engaged and generate increased awareness around available support services. As highlighted in the survey, there is high demand for increased health and wellbeing support for past players and in particular, accessing them alongside former teammates. The medical element will be delivered through a series of health expos (spread over a half day), tailored for past players, that offer accessible and meaningful medical assessments. These will include skin cancer screenings, blood pressure monitoring, brain health education, heart health checks, and general wellbeing consultations.

As part of TELUS Health’s current arrangement with Rugby AU, all past players have access to 6 complimentary counselling sessions. RUPA endeavours that these expos will increase brand awareness and amplify the usage of this service.

“On behalf of TELUS Health, we are thrilled to have the opportunity to support Rugby Union Players’ Associations initiative for retired and past players. We are honoured to present a proposal for comprehensive health checks and health expo services tailored specifically to address the unique needs of your esteemed athletes.“ -TELUS Health TELUS Health is a national organization and will assist in providing RUPA with health experts to deliver the various appointments in each Super Rugby Province (Sydney, Canberra, Perth, Brisbane, whilst also including Melbourne). RUPA is proposing to run one of these events in each state in 2026.

CLICK CLICK BELOW BELOW TO TO ACCESS ACCESS TELUS TELUS HEALTH’S HEALTH’S PROPOSAL: PROPOSAL:

22

PROGRAM PROGRAMPLAN PLAN--HEALTH HEALTH&&WELLBEING WELLBEING RUPA aims to host these expos at each Super Rugby Club or at our national partnership offices in each state (i.e. BDO, Buildcorp, Robert Walters). Historically, liability concerns have limited club access for past players; however, health checks and structured engagement provide a safe, professional, and mutually beneficial framework for re-engagement. This fosters renewed identity, belonging, and community within the rugby ecosystem. RUPA is in the process of gaining legal advice for liability measures.

To ensure the health and wellbeing expos are relevant and reflective of the lived experiences of former professional rugby players, RUPA will co-design and deliver all elements in close collaboration with the Beyond The Game Committee. Through this model, members will take an active leadership role in shaping the program’s direction, contributing their insights, lived experience, and understanding of the long-term challenges faced by past players. Surveys will be sent to all attendees following each expo to gain insight into improvement points and areas of adjustment.

23

IMPLEMENTATION IMPLEMENTATION--HEALTH HEALTHAND ANDWELLBEING WELLBEING The implementation of the program will occur over a 12 month timeline, beginning with a collaborative planning and design phase involving RUPA staff, BTG Committee and TELUS Health Business Representatives. This will be followed by a detailed communications campaign to engage past players including using the BTG Committee to promote the expos to players.

The National TELUS Health Expos will be delivered in each Super Rugby province across 2026 with 1 per state initially. TELUS Health have a national footprint, making them a suitable organization in ensuring that each state receives top health and wellbeing practitioners.

Ongoing engagement will be maintained through follow-up communication, online forums, peer-led breakfast catch ups, networking events, and regular communications through calendarization to ensure players don’t miss out. The promotion of these events and engagement is outlined in more detail in the Communications Plan.

TELUS Health and Wellbeing Expo - Phase 1

Task

Description

Lead

Timeline

Engage Sydney Contact for Beyond The Game Camp

Calendarize December 3-4 for ‘test run’ of the expo in Sydney for the BTG Camp

BTG Working Committee

3 Nov 2025

Engage National TELUS Stakeholders

Liaise with all TELUS Health National departments to inform them of the program

Ananya Bhindi

10 Nov 2025

Engage Super Rugby Clubs

Liaise with all Super Rugby Clubs to secure event space

BTG Working Committee

14 Nov 2025

Create Calendar of Expos for 2026

Create a share calendar with a medical expo in each state for 2026

Ananya Bhindi

17 Nov 2025

Host Info Session (Webinar)

Online Q&A to de-risk participation and answer questions

BTW Working Committee

24 Nov 2025

24

IMPLEMENTATION IMPLEMENTATION--HEALTH HEALTHAND ANDWELLBEING WELLBEING TELUS Health and Wellbeing Expo - Phase 2 - 2026 Task

Description

Lead

Timeline

Deliver Brisbane Health & Wellbeing Expo

Half day at Queensland Reds HQ

BTG Working Committee

30 Jan 2026

Evaluation of Brisbane Expo

Communications to BTG Committee as well as survey to attendees

BTG Working Committee

6 Feb 2026

Deliver Perth Health & Wellbeing Expo

Half day at Western Force HQ

BTG Working Committee

20 Mar 2026

Evaluation of Perth Expo

Communications to BTG Committee as well as survey to attendees

BTG Working Committee

27 Mar 2026

Deliver ACT Health & Wellbeing Expo

Half day at Brumbies HQ

BTG Working Committee

30 Mar 2026

Evaluation of ACT Expo

Communications to BTG Committee as well as survey to attendees

BTG Working Committee

6 Apr 2026

Deliver Melbourne Health & Wellbeing Expo

Half day at BDO Office in Melbourne

BTG Working Committee

26 Jun 2026

Evaluation of Melbourne Expo

Communications to BTG Committee as well as survey to attendees

BTG Working Committee

3 Jul 2026

Deliver Sydney Health & Wellbeing Expo

Half day at NSW Waratahs HQ

BTG Working Committee

28 Aug 2026

Evaluation of Sydney Expo

Communications to BTG Committee as well as survey to attendees

BTG Working Committee

4 Sept 2026

25

COMMUNICATIONS COMMUNICATIONSPLAN PLAN Task

Description

Timeline

Task

PDM's Transitioning Players

WhatsApp

Quarterly Commercial Partners

Email Email

Past Players

Quarterly

Health and Wellbeing Expo

Annually

Breakfast/Networking

Biannually

RUPA Lunch

Annually

WhatsApp

Ad Hoc

GRPF

Public & Media

RUPA Staff & PDM’s

RUPA Board

The Advantage Line Newsletter

Timeline

Events held throughout the year

Quarterly

Email

Monthly

The Advantage line Newsletter

Quarterly

Social Media

Ad Hoc

Brief Meetings

Biannually

Email Updates & Digital Content

Ad Hoc

The Advantage Line Newsletter

Quarterly

Social Media

Weekly

The Advantage Line Newsletter

Quarterly

RUPA Website

Ad Hoc

Circular Meetings

Quarterly

Events

Quarterly

Email

Ad Hoc

Quarterly

The Advantage Line Newsletter

Social Media

Description

Weekly

Quarterly

RUPA Staff strategy

Biannually

Board Meetings

Quarterly

Circular Meetings

Monthly

The Advantage Line Newsletter

Quarterly

Alumni Ambassadors

International Rugby Players Committee (IRP)

26

Meetings

Biannually

The Advantage Line Newsletter

Quarterly

ALLY ALLY--ADDITIONAL ADDITIONALRESEARCH RESEARCH Career Readiness To support a smooth transition into the workforce, the program includes networking opportunities, resume development, and interview skills training. Research highlights the importance of preparing players for life beyond rugby, with a New Zealand Rugby Players Association study reporting that 60% of retired players took six months or longer to gain control over their lives. By partnering with experts like Dr Dave Arthur, who helps players articulate transferable skills developed in rugby, the program enhances players’ readiness to engage in meaningful employment.

Financial Wellbeing Financial instability is a key challenge for many transitioning athletes. According to a NZRPA study, 33% of players reported experiencing periods of financial hardship, and almost half experienced unemployment, with most of these cases lasting three months or longer. By integrating financial literacy education, personalized financial planning support, and access to relevant resources, the program helps players build long-term financial stability. Reducing financial stress also contributes to a smoother psychological and emotional transition.

Health and Wellbeing The physical and psychological health impacts of retirement from elite sport are significant.

Players forced to retire due to injury were found to be at increased risk of depression or feelings of despair. Additionally, research into elite women’s rugby players noted that a lack of physical activity post-retirement was associated with a perception of lower general health. To address this, the program includes ongoing health checks for all past players based on needs analysis and feedback. These include screening for sleep problems, brain health, skin cancer checks, and general health checks. By utilizing the same health and wellbeing provider, TELUS Health, these health checks can also be a conduit to the six complimentary psychological support consults, available to all past players.

Athletic Identity Having dedicated much of their lives to rugby, many athletes face a deep sense of loss, uncertainty, and disconnection as they leave behind their routine, team environment, and identity. To address this, RUPA will use research from University of Queensland’s “More Than Sport” (MTS) program, presented by Dr Tarli Young to RUPA Player Development Managers in 2024. This one-hour, online, self-paced program helps athletes navigate social identity change.

Participants in the research reported: Increased awareness of building and maintaining social group networks New knowledge and skills to manage identity in career transitions Strategies to cope with identity change and associated losses Additionally, participants will complete a self-authoring program that guides them in examining their past, present, and future selves, enabling them to reflect on how their rugby experience has shaped them, and how their values align with life after sport.

27

BUDGET BUDGET--INVESTMENT INVESTMENTBREAKDOWN BREAKDOWN

Please note that costs are variable and dependent on total attendees at each engagement. Estimated number of past players for each engagement as per above is 20.

28

CONCLUSION CONCLUSION In conclusion, this application highlights RUPA’s long-term commitment to the wellbeing of former professional rugby players, addressing the complex challenges they face after leaving the game. Created from the 2025 past player survey and aligning with the GRPF Investment Principles, the ‘Beyond The Game’ program is built on two initiatives that form the foundation of a nationally scalable support framework. The Beyond The Game Committee serves as the program’s core platform in ensuring the ‘player voice’ remains paramount as well as tracking the progress of players across their transition.

The first initiative is the ‘Beyond The Game’ Development Camp, delivered in partnership with RUPA’s stakeholders. This immersive, face-to-face program supports players in the early stages of their transition by addressing critical themes such as loss of identity, personal development, and future direction. Through targeted workshops, peer connection, and tailored resources, the camp raises awareness of the available support whilst reframes transition as a highperformance journey off the field, helping participants build clarity and confidence.

The second initiative being the Health and Wellbeing Exhibition, delivered in collaboration with TELUS Health. This event provides former players with access to medical professionals for oneon-one consultations and group sessions, creating a safe space to address both physical and mental health concerns. It ensures that players are connected to ongoing care pathways and feel supported in managing their long-term wellbeing needs.

Together with the support of allied partners, these initiatives form an evidence-led program designed to address the core needs of past players, whilst supported by clear implementation models. RUPA’s proposal not only demonstrates alignment with GRPF’s strategic priorities but also contributes to amplifying global effort to support athletes in being better people, better players and living better lives...beyond the game.

29

BEYOND THE GAME AUSTRALIA

BETTER PEOPLE BETTER PLAYERS BETTER LIVES