Twenty-three newly contracted Australian rugby players have gathered in Sydney for the 12 annual RUPA Induction Camp at St Andrew’s College.
In attendance are players across all five Australian Super Rugby teams and the National Sevens who have been offered their first full time or Extended Playing Squad (EPS) contract for 2015.
Last year the Camp involved players including Will Skelton, Alofa Alofa, Jack Debreczeni, Curtis Browning, Samu Kerevi and Adam Coleman.
In 2014, the camp includes five players from the Brumbies, four from the Waratahs, Rebels and Force, three from the Reds and, for the first time, three members of the women’s National Sevens squad.
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The camp is a core component of RUPA’s Player Development Program (PDP), which employs five Player Development Managers who work within each Australian Super Rugby team.
RUPA’s PDP is a proactive player-focused initiative that assists professionally contracted rugby players from the rookie level through to post retirement. The program offers support in all areas off the field, including education, professional training, mental health, career and financial matters.
Players arriving for RUPA camp
RUPA Chief Executive, Greg Harris said the camp provides an important introduction for players embarking on new careers as professional athletes.
“The induction camp is a good opportunity for the players to spend time with experts, who explain the key components of life as a professional rugby player.
“It is a vital part of RUPA’s operations to advise and support players on all elements of professional rugby, including financial matters, integrity and medical policies, cybersecurity, mental health, safety, travel and cultural diversity.
“Ensuring players understand RUPA’s Player Development Program from the outset will assist them to maximise their potential on and off the field throughout their careers,” Mr Harris said.
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