NZRPA Alumni
The NZRPA Alumni allows past and overseas based professional players to remain members or join the New Zealand Rugby Players’ Association. NZRPA Alumni will be able to take advantage of the player services offered to NZRPA members and specifically the Professional Transitional Program.
The NZRPA and players have worked hard to get the NZRPA to a point where we can properly cater for our Alumni – in fact many overseas based and past players were instrumental in forming and developing the NZRPA over the last several years. A real focus of our work is assisting players to identify their pathways to success, both on and off the field. It is about where the players and their families are in 15-20 years time. It is our hope that through this initiative players will be able to maintain their links to their fellow players, the NZRPA, the services and assistance it provides, and the game itself.
There is no membership fee. For a past or overseas based professional player to become a member of the NZRPA or confirm their existing membership they need to apply here and email david.gibson@nzrpa.co.nz.
Professional Transition Program
Through its Professional Transition Program the NZRPA offers those players who have finished or are nearing the end or their Professional Rugby career a network of specialist providers who can assist in providing a solid starting point and positive first step into the next stage of theirs and their families lives.
Career Planning
Professional Players operate in a high performance environment learn a variety of skills, attributes and values that are transferable and hugely respected in other employment sectors. Through the NZRPA you can access the opportunity to meet with a quality career advisor who has an understanding of the Professional Rugby environment and what is required to be successful in the next stage of life.
- Develop a professional, comprehensive Curriculum Vitae and Career Plan that clearly identifies the practical steps, tangible skills and up skilling required to meet your career goals
Financial Planning
Professional Players have the opportunity to earn a reasonable level of income early in their working lives but for almost all players the reality is that this income decreases towards the end of their playing careers and reduces significantly immediately after retirement from professional rugby – players need to plan for this. Through the NZRPA you will get the opportunity to access a credible and skilled Chartered Accountant and / or Personal Bank Manager who understands your financial needs during this transitional phase and can help you prepare, plan and best manage your financial affairs.
- Undergo a full Financial Audit with a Chartered Accountant and develop a workable and tailored Financial Plan
- Undergo a review of your banking arrangements with a view to tailoring a banking package to suit your needs
Personal Planning
Professional players and their families undergo a major transition both during and after retiring from professional rugby that involves a number of unique challenges. Through the NZRPA you will be able to access a network of providers that can assist you and your family during this time.
- Assistance with a any rugby contractual issues arising out of your retirement and transition.
- Preferential and tailored health, life and general insurance packages through the NZRPA principle business partner TOWER.
- Access to a network of lawyers familiar with the professional sporting environment who can assist with property transactions, estate planning, wills and other personal legal requirements.
- Support through the NZRPA Benevolent and Welfare Fund in the event of any unforeseen or unfortunate events resulting in hardship.
- Through the NZRPA access to a network of specialists skilled in assisting individuals with personal, relationship or other behavioural challenges.
- Access to rugby specific medical rehabilitation advice.
- Access to other NZRPA Preferential Rates and Player Benefits.
- Access to certain NZRPA Functions and Events.
