WHAT WE DO
The Rugby Players Association is the representative body and collective voice of professional rugby players in England. We represent more than 800 male and female current rugby players, as well as more than 400 former players.
It is our mission to support, promote and protect the interests of our members, from the moment they sign their first professional contracts, throughout their playing careers, and beyond as they embark on the next phase of their lives.
Our members enjoy a wide range of benefits, including: independent representation; legal advice; personal and professional development; playing insurance; education; confidential counselling; transition support; and much more. Members can also access the support of our official charity, Restart, in the event of serious illness, injury or hardship.
The RPA has also acted as the exclusive commercial representative of the England Team since 2004 and performs the following duties on behalf of Team England: Negotiation of the Elite Players Squad Contract, England and Saxons match fees, England team win bonuses and Image Rights payments with the RFU.
Our Aims:
- To safeguard the rights of players past, present and future
- To establish and maintain better conditions of employment
- To provide members with representation at the highest level of the game
- To provide financial or other assistance to our members suffering from serious injury, illness or hardship
- To assist with career and educational training for our members
- To promote the sport of rugby union in England
Interested in boosting your personal development? Join the R-P-A
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From our members
Mark Lambert
HEAD OF RUGBY POLICY
“The need for a trade union in the game has never been greater in my opinion. Not only does the RPA offer support and guidance in many areas, it also fights for the big issues that define the life of the modern professional rugby player.”
From our members
James Haskell
RPA Club Member, Former England, Northampton Saints + Wasps
“The biggest difficulty facing professional rugby players is what to do post career, as well as what to do to achieve life balance. The RPA’s help with the players at Wasps and also with me personally has been invaluable.”
From our members
Rob Vickerman
RPA CLUB MEMBER, Formerly England 7s + Newcastle Falcons
“As somebody who was forced to retire through injury, I can’t begin to describe how important planning for life after rugby was for me so that when the worst happened, I could continue to support my family.”
From our members
Christian Day
RPA Player Liaison Officer
“As our game continues to evolve and grow, it has never been more important for the players’ voices to be heard. It’s the only way to ensure our rights and welfare are protected. Through the RPA Players’ Board, we have a unique opportunity to shape the game and determine how it’s run.”
From our members
Tom Arscott
Newcastle Falcons
“When I most needed support and particularly legal advice, the RPA were there to help and provide guidance at a very difficult time.”
From our members
Ed Jackson
RPA CLUB MEMBER, Formerly WASPS + BATH RUGBY
“The support I have received from the RPA and Restart from day one has been incredible. It made such a difference to my recovery and how positive and motivated you see me today.”
From our members
Emily Scarratt
England
“As professional players it’s really important for us to always keep one eye on what career we are going to do post rugby so to be offered opportunities to gain experience and insight into a wide variety of industries through the RPA whilst still playing is invaluable.”
