PRA
Sound Grounding
This month saw the inaugural PRA Academy Induction Day at Loughborough University, aimed at first year Academy players contracted to the Guinness Premiership clubs. Devised and organised by the Professional Rugby Players’ Association (PRA), the day is set to become an annual event. Guest speakers from the RFU, Premier Rugby, and media law specialists Schillings were joined by representatives from the PRA’s playing insurance partner, Towergate tlc, financial services partner, HSBC, insurance partners, ProSport Insure and car partner, Mercedes Benz UK. Former England international Leon Lloyd also shared his experiences of what it takes to be a top professional. The PRA’s lead Player Development Manager, Tim Nicholls said, “Our aim is to give a sound grounding in the professional game and to guide players’ personal development. The support and input of our event partners, the RFU and Premier Rugby, ensured the Academy players received a consistent.” PRA CEO, Damian Hopley said: “The PRA believes that providing the relevant information and advice for players at the very outset will be hugely beneficial to them in the short and long term.” England U20s Coach, Martin Haag, one of the guest speakers, said: “There were several players attending who have the potential to play for England in the future, and they need to understand what it takes to be an international player. They may not need some of the information immediately, but need it they will.” Premier Rugby Commercial Director, Jon Varney, also a guest speaker, said, “It’s important that players understand what the league is trying to achieve and how it derives its revenues. They also need to understand what supporters value about the Premiership as, after the players, supporters are the most important component and main consumers of the game.” Chris York, a first year Academy player at Harlequins said: “The day made us all realise how much there is to know and consider when it comes to being a good professional, and a big part of that is what you do outside playing and training. It has certainly highlighted to me that there are things I need to address if I’m going to make sure I have a successful career in rugby and afterwards.”
