Life After Rugby: 282 retired players share their experiences and insights

Transitioning out of professional rugby brings change, adjustment and new opportunities. New research from the New Zealand Rugby Players’ Association (RPA) highlights the resilience and resourcefulness of players as they navigate life beyond the game.

Drawing on the experiences of 282 retired professional rugby players, the RPA's latest research explores the realities of leaving professional rugby, how players are tracking today, and the insights they would share with the next generation.

The findings paint an encouraging picture, with 77% of respondents reporting that life after rugby is going really well or okay. While the transition can take time, particularly as players adjust to new routines, careers and identities. The research highlights their ability to adapt, draw on their strengths and create new opportunities.

A consistent message received from former players is the value of making intentional use of their playing years. Having education and qualifications create options, financial preparation provides security, and strong networks open doors to opportunities beyond rugby.

As the players' organisation, the RPA exists to support players throughout their lives, not just during their professional rugby careers. Continuing to provide meaningful support, connection and opportunities beyond the game is central to who we are and what we do.

The experiences and insights generously shared by the 282 players who contributed to this research will help inform the RPA's ongoing work, to strengthen the support available to retired players and provide valuable lessons for those still playing.

Supporting players for life

Through The Aftermatch™, our specialist service for players navigating the transition out of professional rugby, retired players have access to dedicated Personal Development Managers, Maree Bowden and Fiona Brading, who provide personalised guidance, practical support and connections to help players navigate their next chapter.

Former players also retain access to the RPA's wider range of services, including:

• Career exploration and guidance: Career planning, CV preparation, LinkedIn profiles, interview preparation, connections to professional networks and opportunities.
• Health and wellbeing: Fully funded mental wellbeing sessions, medical advocacy, brain health education and connections to leading health specialists.
• Financial education and guidance: Access to the RPA's in-house independent Financial Educator, Clara Wiltshire, alongside financial education, practical guidance and connections to trusted professionals.
• Connection and community: Ongoing events, challenges and opportunities to maintain relationships and stay connected with the wider rugby community.

The Rugby Club

The Rugby Club is the virtual clubrooms for New Zealand's current and former professional rugby players, whether they're based in Aotearoa or anywhere around the world. Established by players, for players, it brings the player community together in one place, providing a way to stay connected, access support and services, share opportunities and maintain the relationships formed through the game.

The Club also features an extensive business network directory, connecting players with mentors, expertise and opportunities across the former player community. It provides a space for players to connect over shared interests, explore business opportunities, exchange knowledge and support one another, both professionally and personally.

Whether a player is still playing, has recently retired or has been out of the game for decades, The Rugby Club is theirs.

Join The Rugby Club

The RPA extends its sincere thanks to the 282 former players who contributed to this research. Their generosity in sharing their experiences, insights and advice will benefit current and future generations of players and help shape the support available to the wider rugby community.

Read the Retired Player Research Summary