As you may well be aware, the Eterlast RPA Awards 2022 returned with a bang last month after a two year hiatus.

Nearly 800 guests gathered at Evolution London to celebrate the rugby achievements and milestones of recent years and importantly, raise much needed funds for Restart, the official charity of the Rugby Players Association.  

Restart provides financial and practical support to players and their families during difficult times, including help with the cost of medical treatment, rehabilitation equipment and disability support. We’re also there when players need emotional support to help with mental health issues, by providing a 24/7 Confidential Counselling Service.

Following the cancellation of the Awards, amongst almost all other charity events in 2020 and 2021 due to the pandemic, fundraising was almost non-existent which threatened the very future of Restart and its’ vital work with our players.

The Eterlast RPA Awards therefore presented Restart with an invaluable opportunity to make up for huge losses over the last two years. As a charity that receives no government or lottery funding, we are completely reliant on the success of fundraising events such as the Awards.

Funds have now been reconciled and to say we have been totally blown away by the kindness and generosity of all attendees is an understatement. A staggering £160,500 was raised on the evening to support players in need. This huge achievement was only possible with external support of our partners, prize donors and of course our incredible guests who attended the evening.

We wanted to say a sincere and thank you for your generous contributions. These funds will enable Restart to continue delivering vital support to players faced with serious injury, illness or hardship.

Thank you for helping us give back to the players, who give their all to the game we love.