Brumbies Players Connect with Future Career Pathways at RUPA Networking Evening
In addition to the Waratahs networking event on Tuesday night, the entire Brumbies playing group also came together for a meaningful RUPA Careers Networking Session held in Canberra. The event was part of RUPA’s ongoing commitment to provide players with professional networks to support their career options after rugby.
Over the course of the evening, players engaged in conversations with a diverse and experienced group of industry professionals spanning finance, business, startups, construction, education, technology/IT, community services, government, small business, and hospitality. The networking format allowed players to rotate between representatives, enabling rich, informal conversations where they could ask questions, seek guidance, and learn about various career paths, industries, and personal journeys.
There was strong representation from RUPA’s key partners, including BDO and Robert Walters, both of whom have consistently supported RUPA’s vision to empower players in planning for their futures. Brumbies corporate supporters also showed exceptional commitment to player welfare and development, with representatives attending from RSM, Construction Control, Capital Holdings, DXC, Sunny Homes, Callida Consulting, Milestone Financial, The Dock, Two Before Ten, Canberra Innovation Network, Marist College, Canberra Grammar School, Marymead, and Make the Time.
A unique highlight of the night was the presence of past Brumbies players Matt To’omua, Ben Alexander, Sam Norton-Knight, and Jerry Yanuyanutawa. Drawing from their own experiences transitioning from elite sport into successful post-rugby careers, they shared personal insights and practical advice. Their stories resonated deeply with the current playing group and served as powerful reminders that while rugby careers may be finite, the skills developed through sport resilience, leadership, discipline, teamwork are highly transferrable and valued across industries.
Feedback from players was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing how grateful they were for the chance to connect with such a wide range of professionals in a relaxed and supportive setting. Several players made meaningful connections that could translate into internships, mentoring relationships, or even future employment opportunities.
RUPA would like to thank all the attending organisations and individuals for generously donating their time and energy to support our players. Their involvement is a powerful demonstration of how sport and business can work together to create sustainable, fulfilling pathways for athletes beyond their sporting careers.
