Player Development Programme

The RPA's Player Development Programme is designed to individually support, guide and assist its members in their personal and professional development, providing them with the opportunity to fulfill their potential and build a lasting legacy following retirement from the game. The programme works with players throughout and beyond their playing careers.

Key Focus Areas:

• Personal Development
• Life After Rugby
• Lifestyle Balance
• Education

Programme Initiatives include:

• Jobs for The Boys
• Academy Induction Day
• Education Grant
• Social Awareness Education Programme
• Personal & Professional Development Seminars

Each region has a Player Development Manager who is a one-stop shop for players requiring help, support or advice. Contact your PDM to discuss all of the services the RPA can offer members:

David Barnes Rugby Manager & Saracens M: 07931 334619 E: dbarnes@theRPA.co.uk

Tim Nicholls Head PDM, Sale & Worcester M: 07738 029161 E: tnicholls@theRPA.co.uk	Josh Frape PDM for Exeter & Gloucester M: 07725 142065 E: jfrape@theRPA.co.uk
Matt Allen PDM for Northampton Saints & Leicester Tigers M: 07912 541458 E: mallen@theRPA.co.uk	Ben McGregor PDM for Harlequins & London Wasps M: 07889 601 696 E: bmcgregor@theRPA.co.uk
Richard Bryan PDM for Bath & London Irish M: 07921 065 947 E: rbryan@theRPA.co.uk	Mandy Thompson PDM for Leeds & Newcastle M: 07889 601 709 E: mthompson@therpa.co.uk

Life After Rugby

The RPA's PDM's support players by providing a career planning service, education and vocational guidance and retirement support.

To assist us, the RPA use a network of rugby friendly employers and recruitment partners who support retiring players with work experience opportunities. These offer players an opportunity to establish links with employers and have a taste of the world of work.