Career Challenges and Preparation
Retiring from professional rugby, after years of single-minded dedication to the sport, can be a daunting and disorienting experience. The transition from the structured, adrenaline-fueled world of elite competition to the unknown beyond can leave many players struggling to find their footing. Gone are the daily training sessions, the camaraderie of the changing room, and the roar of the crowd – replaced by a sudden void that can be difficult to fill.
“The last two years have been the most testing and challenging for rugby union as a professional sport since the early days when everyone was flying blind,” says Christian Day, general secretary of the Rugby Players’ Association. “We’re trying to help with that.” And the need is significant, with estimates that at least 100 current Premiership squad members will soon be left without a contract due to the financial pressures facing the game.
The transition is not just about finding a new job or career path. It’s about redefining one’s sense of identity and purpose, navigating the shift from athlete to civilian, and finding meaningful ways to channel that competitive drive and passion. As Geoff Griffiths, a former player and now owner of a digital marketing agency, points out, “What happens in rugby, in particular, is that people get pushed into finance or brokerage… things where you’re classically going to be good at because of your transferable skills.” But what if those options don’t truly ignite the same fire?
Developing Transferable Skills
The key, says Griffiths, is to look beyond the obvious and explore the deeper wells of one’s potential. “The better you understand yourself while you’re in rugby, the better armed and equipped you are.” This means actively developing a diverse skillset that extends beyond the playing field.
As a player at Aberdeenshire RFC, you’ve undoubtedly honed valuable abilities in areas like teamwork, communication, problem-solving, and resilience. These “soft skills” are highly sought after in a wide range of industries, from business and entrepreneurship to coaching and community engagement. The challenge lies in recognizing and articulating how these transferable skills can be applied in a post-rugby career.
Education and Training Opportunities
Proactively seeking out educational and training opportunities can also be a game-changer. The RPA reports that 91% of Premiership players have expressed an interest in developing themselves beyond rugby, with 62% already enrolled in educational or vocational courses. This includes everything from business management and digital marketing to counseling and sports psychology.
“The sooner you do something the better,” advises Griffiths. “Anything’s better than it being too late.” Whether it’s earning a degree, completing a professional certification, or simply exploring new hobbies and interests, the key is to start the process of self-discovery and personal development while still actively playing.
Post-Career Opportunities
The transition out of rugby doesn’t have to mean the end of your involvement in the sport. In fact, many players have found fulfilling second careers within the rugby ecosystem itself.
Coaching and Mentoring Roles
Leveraging your deep understanding of the game, you could pursue coaching positions at the club, academy, or national team level. This allows you to continue sharing your expertise and passion while also helping to develop the next generation of rugby talent.
Matt Smith, the new Leicester Tigers Academy Head Coach, shares his experience: “It was very daunting, the fear of the unknown. Losing that structure and the close friendship group of a changing room was a big challenge. I felt a lack of identity.” However, Smith emphasizes the value of active work experience and mentoring, which have helped him navigate this transition.
Business and Entrepreneurship
For those with a more entrepreneurial spirit, the rugby community offers countless opportunities to apply your skills and knowledge in a business setting. From sports marketing and event management to sports nutrition and equipment development, the possibilities are diverse and exciting.
As Geoff Griffiths, a former player himself, explains, “I was talking to another guy who has just retired from the Premiership. He was saying that a lot of stuff around transition comes across as very negative. We want it to be a positive. The empowerment thing is massive.”
Community Engagement
Rugby has always been a sport deeply rooted in community. As a former player, you possess a unique understanding of the game’s impact and the ability to connect with players, fans, and local organizations. This makes you an invaluable asset in community-based roles, such as youth development programs, charitable initiatives, or sports governance.
By channeling your passion for the game into these community-focused endeavors, you can not only find personal fulfillment but also make a lasting impact on the sport you love.
Financial Management and Planning
One of the most pressing concerns for retiring rugby players is the need to ensure financial stability and security. The volatile nature of professional sports contracts and the relatively short careers in rugby mean that effective financial management is crucial.
Income Diversification
To avoid the pitfalls of relying solely on rugby earnings, it’s essential to explore opportunities for diversifying your income streams. This could involve investments, property, or even developing secondary revenue-generating activities during your playing days.
“Who’s making forever money in rugby?” poses Griffiths. “The financials aren’t really good enough to justify being all-in.” By proactively building a diversified financial portfolio, you can cushion the transition and maintain a comfortable standard of living.
Retirement Savings and Investment
Alongside income diversification, prioritizing retirement savings and strategic investment is key. Engaging with financial advisors and taking advantage of tax-efficient vehicles can help ensure your hard-earned earnings are working for you in the long run.
Tax and Legal Considerations
The complexities of professional sports contracts, endorsements, and potential business ventures require a thorough understanding of tax obligations and legal requirements. Seeking guidance from qualified financial and legal professionals can help you navigate these waters with confidence and minimize potential pitfalls.
Mental Health and Wellbeing
The transition from the high-intensity, adrenaline-fueled world of professional rugby to a more sedentary, office-based environment can take a significant toll on mental health. Addressing this aspect of the transition is crucial for achieving long-term fulfillment and happiness.
Coping with Identity Shift
The loss of the athlete identity can be deeply unsettling, leaving many players struggling to find a new sense of purpose and belonging. Acknowledging this shift and proactively exploring new sources of meaning and self-worth is essential.
As Geoff Griffiths notes, “I’ve got a couple of retired Premiership players who say they wish there was something like this before. One of them was bumbling his way through in a dead-end job that he didn’t really care about. Another told me he felt like he was just an academy player again.”
Maintaining Social Connections
The close-knit camaraderie of the rugby changing room is often irreplaceable, and the sudden loss of that support network can be acutely felt. Proactively nurturing existing friendships and building new social connections outside of rugby can be a powerful antidote to feelings of isolation.
Accessing Support Services
Fortunately, there are a growing number of resources and support services available to retiring rugby players. Organizations like the Rugby Players’ Association and charities like Switch the Play offer mentoring, counseling, and practical assistance to ease the transition.
As Matt Smith advises, “A sense that it is ok to feel anxious, everyone will struggle in some way and there is help out there if you are willing to find it.” Reaching out and accessing these support networks can be a crucial step in navigating the emotional challenges of retirement.
Conclusion
The transition from professional rugby to life after the game may be fraught with challenges, but it also presents a world of opportunities. By proactively developing transferable skills, exploring diverse career paths, and prioritizing financial, mental, and emotional wellbeing, retiring players can not only find fulfillment in the next chapter but also continue to make a positive impact on the sport they love.
As you embark on this journey, remember the wise words of Geoff Griffiths: “Retire to something, not from something.” With a clear vision, a willingness to adapt, and the support of the rugby community, the future beyond the playing field can be just as rewarding as the glory days on the pitch.
For more information and resources on life after rugby, be sure to visit the Aberdeenshire RFC website at www.aberdeenshirerfc.org.uk. Together, we can ensure that the legacy of the game extends far beyond the final whistle.