News

Beyond the Game

Supporting Rugby Players Through Retirement and Beyond

Rugby Players Ireland is proud to announce the expansion of its support services for retired rugby players with the launch of Beyond the Game. This new initiative, supported by the Global Rugby Players Foundation (GRPF), aims to provide proactive, tailored assistance for players transitioning into life after professional or international rugby.

Led by Dr Deirdre Lyons who will act as a dedicated resource for former players, the programme is responsible for the strategy and development of GRPF initiatives in Ireland. Beyond the Game focuses on four key pillars: Change, Care, Connection, and Community, ensuring that former players receive comprehensive support in all aspects of their post-rugby lives through tailored transition support, career mentoring, and resources that promote mental, physical, social and financial wellbeing,

“We understand that the transition from professional rugby can be challenging,” said Dr Lyons. “Beyond the Game ensures that every player has access to resources that empower them to embrace new opportunities and navigate the changes that come with leaving the game.”

“By offering a range of local solutions, we’ll help them adjust to the change, provide access to care, harness a community of former players to encourage positive impact and social inclusion, and connect them back to old networks and establish new ones.”

Beyond the Game offers a comprehensive package to help players thrive in retirement.

A Global Effort: The Role of the Global Rugby Players Foundation

Beyond the Game is supported by the Global Rugby Players Foundation (GRPF), a new charitable organisation founded by 10 prominent former and current rugby stars, including Dan Carter, Jonny Wilkinson, Rachael Burford, and Siya Kolisi. GRPF’s mission is to help players around the world navigate from the period of adjust that follows the transition from professional rugby to life after sport, through locally tailored, holistic support programmes.

Chaired by former Wallabies captain George Gregan and led by CEO Sara Heath, the GRPF ensures players, regardless of their location, have access to vital resources like mental health support, career coaching, and physical wellbeing programmes.

Support for Players, On and Off the Field

Through the partnership with GRPF, Beyond the Game will provide players with support in the following ways:

• On-the-ground funding for local players’ associations and partners.
• Mental and physical health programmes, including proactive support for wellbeing.
• Career and business coaching to help players define and pursue new career paths.
• Community support via a dedicated app, keeping players connected globally.
• Partnership programmes to create opportunities with organisations and sponsors.

For players, leaving the game is not an end – it’s the beginning of a new journey. With Beyond the Game, Rugby Players Ireland and the Global Rugby Players Foundation are ensuring that every player can step into the next phase of their lives with confidence, purpose, and the support they deserve.

If you are a former professional or international level rugby player and would like to request a call back, click here. 

Watch our launch video here.