NZRPA Young Player Educational Progam

The NZRPA Young Player Educational Program is designed to educate young players on issues they need to be aware of as they prepare for or embark on a professional rugby playing career.

Typically these players will include Academy Players, National Age Grade Players and National and Regional Secondary Schools Players.

In delivering the program we involve the use of current and past professional players as well as relevant qualified professionals while involving parents and guardians.

Core areas the program looks to provide advice, guidance and support to young players include:

•  the NZRPA, its role and how best to utilize the player services it offers;
• Anti-doping including the provision of an anti-doping educational seminar and the opportunity to sign the pledge; 
• the Professional Development Program and the importance of holistic development;
• Agents including the NZRPA Agent Charter and NZRPA Background Paper on Agents;
• specific IRB regulations players need to be aware of i.e. eligibility;
• the contracting structure in New Zealand; and
• key considerations for a young player considering an academy agreement offer or Provincial Union Development Contract.

For further information please contact us.

The NZRPA has also developed resources which will help a young player to make sound decisions:

               Guide to Agent Approcahes and Contract Offers

               Guide to Considering an Academy Agreement or Playing Contract

               Background Paper on Agents

               Contracting Structure in New Zealand

               NZRPA Agent Charter