For Players
RUPA offers industry-leading Training & Education (T&E) Grants for current and recently retired players as an incentive to pursue study options away from Rugby.
The scheme was introduced in 2001 and has provided professional players with over $5.5 million in reimbursement grants since it has been in operation. The scheme recognises that players have a finite time as professionals to prepare for their next careers and, through the Player Development Program, RUPA are proud to support the ongoing education and future aspirations of our members.
Each year, Super Rugby, Sevens Members and eligible RUPA Players' Alumni members are able to seek reimbursement for their previous year’s training and education expenses, in accordance with respective player meeting the following criteria (all reimbursements are retrospective:
- At least passing their subjects/courses;
-Providing evidence of completion and payment; and
- Being within the scope of reimbursement eligibility
To find out who is eligible, what you are eligible to claim and how the career cap works.
For more information, speak to your Player Development Manager (PDM) or contact James Holbeck.
Each Super Rugby franchise has a Player Development Manager (PDM) embedded in the team. The PDM is there to run the Player Development Program and to work with its members on off-field individual development plans.
Providing financial services to contracted players. Players have access to one-on-one sessions with BDO financial specialists, in consultation with their PDM, at VIP pricing. BDO also offer each Super Rugby Team group seminars on financial literacy to assist them in understanding more about savings, investments, tax, super and financial identity.
Click here to access BDO's Athlete Tax Deductions Info Pack
For more information contact Ananya Bhindi
London Academy of Trading (LAT) is an award-winning, triple-accredited provider of a financial trading education in courses such as cryptocurrency, trading psychology, equity investing, wealth management etc. Through this partnership, RUPA members (past and present) will have access to a variety of LAT's programs at VIP pricing, including short courses, diplomas, and advanced certifications.
To access VIP Pricing, contact Ananya Bhindi
Providing both players with one-on-one OR group appointments with recruitment specialists to develop vocational skills in CV writing, LinkedIn, networking and career development, to assist them in their transition journey. Robert Walters also provide players with a toolbox of resources in identifying other areas of career interest outside of rugby. For more information, please contact Ananya Bhindi
See below resources from Robert Walters designed specifically for RUPA members to assist in building their vocational skills:
Each club has access to RUPA's commercial network, to leverage connections and eventual job opportunities post rugby. RUPA hosts annual networking events within each club for players who are interested in connecting with industry leaders and maximising opportunities for life off the field.
Click here to hear from players on their experiences at RUPA's Career Networking Sessions.
Past and present RUPA Members, as well as their family members, have access to VIP pricing, negotiated specifically for RUPA members. The PaxAnimi® service includes all legal advice and guidance to form and execute wills (including testamentary trusts), powers of attorney and guardianship documents, online.
To access VIP Pricing, contact Ananya Bhindi.
Players have access to VIP pricing to complete The MTQPlus Assessment, a robust psychometric tool designed to measure mental toughness, an essential trait for success in high-pressure environments such as professional sports. MTQPlus evaluates four key components: Control, Commitment, Challenge, and Confidence. These elements collectively contribute to an individual's ability to handle stress, overcome challenges, stay committed to goals, and maintain self-belief.
To access VIP Pricing, contact Ananya Bhindi
Free skin checks are offered to all Super Rugby contracted players through local providers.
Access to VIP Pricing on CARVE Eyewear products, available to past and present players, and their families. ContactAnanya Bhindi to access.
With offices in more than 130 countries, Gallagher is one of the leading insurance brokerage, risk management and employee benefits companies in the world. Click here to read more.
Contact Alex Grygiel for further information.
Contact Alex Grygiel for further information.
RUPA and Rugby Australia has partnered with Telus Health to offer players and their families confidential services and counselling.
Contact your PDM for further information.
Players have access to confidential clinical psychology session.
Contact your PDM for further information.
Players have access to VIP pricing at Harvey Norman.
To access VIP Pricing, contact Ananya Bhindi
The World Rugby Brain Health Service, is a program funded by World Rugby designed to support former players' brain health. It offers a comprehensive assessment process, including an online questionnaire and consultation with a trained practitioner, to identify any potential needs for further medical evaluation. The service is available to any retired players who competed at an international or Super Rugby level. Click here to sign up and complete the assessment.
To access more specialised player benefits, contact your PDM.
