News

26/27 ISF Applications Now OPEN

Applications are now open for the 2026/27 Ireland Sports Fund Scholarships, giving professional rugby players across Ireland the opportunity to invest in their education, career development and life beyond the game.

Following a hugely successful inaugural year, the scholarship programme returns with the ambition of supporting even more players as they prepare for the next chapter of their lives. In its first year, the Ireland Sports Fund received more than 60 applications from players across the men’s and women’s game, with 11 scholarships awarded to support a wide range of educational and professional development opportunities.

Whether you’re pursuing a qualification, returning to education, developing new skills or exploring a career beyond rugby, the Ireland Sports Fund exists to help make those ambitions a reality.

The scholarship programme reflects a simple belief: while Irish rugby continues to thrive on the field, preparing players for life beyond the game is just as important. Investing in education and career development not only helps ease the transition from professional sport but also contributes to improved wellbeing, confidence and performance throughout a player’s career.

Key Information

• Applications close: Monday, 31 August 2026
• Open to contracted professional rugby players in Ireland and players retired within the past 12 months.
• Supports education, professional qualifications and career development opportunities.
• An application guide is available from Rugby Players Ireland.

Whether you’ve had a course in mind for years, are working towards a qualification or are simply beginning to think about what comes after rugby, we encourage you to apply.

Your rugby career won’t last forever. The skills, knowledge and experiences you develop alongside it will.

For further information or to request an application pack, please contact your PDM.