The Rugby Players Association (RPA) is pleased to announce that James Haskell has been appointed Vice Chair of Restart Rugby, the Official Charity of the RPA.

Restart Rugby is dedicated to supporting professional rugby players suffering from serious injury, illness, or hardship. They provide 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. Plus, they offer emotional support to help with mental health issues, by providing a 24/7 Confidential Counselling Service. Haskell got involved with the charity back in 2020 as one of the of trustees and has now taken on the role as Vice Chair, a first for the charity.

Haskell is one of the best-known rugby players and sportspeople in the UK. Having played 77 times for his country, as well as playing around the world and for the British and Irish Lions, James is known as much for his ability on the field as his personality off it.

Having retired from professional sport in 2019, the former Wasps and Northampton flanker has embarked on a career as a podcaster, presenter, and professional DJ. He hosts The Good, The Bad and The Rugby, which averages around 150K listeners per weekly episode and it is one of the biggest sports podcasts in the world. He is also a Top 10 Sunday Times bestselling author for his smash-hit autobiography, What A Flanker. His 2021 follow-up, Ruck Me, has also become a huge success and this year, is launching a new book ‘Approach Without caution. A guide to navigating the modern world’.

On his appointment as Vice Chair, Haskell said: “As a former rugby player, I’ve seen first-hand the huge impact the game can have on players’ physical and emotional wellbeing. That’s why I’m extremely proud to be appointed Vice Chair for Restart, helping to ensure that Restart can continue to be a lifeline for players experiencing their toughest times.”

Jeremy Beard, Chair of Restart Rugby, said: “I am delighted that James has agreed to take on the role of Vice Chair of Restart Rugby. James’ passion and commitment to the cause of the charity over the last three years as a trustee has been second to none, and he has consistently used his public platform to promote the vital work we do. I know James is committed to continue this for the benefit of current and former players, and his voice will be a great asset to Restart as we look to secure more funds to provide support to an increasing number of players.”