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PLAYER CARE
GAIN LINE:
SUPPORTING RUGBY’S ELITE Luke Cheyne, one of eight Development Managers who deliver Gain Line, the Rugby Players Association’s (RPA) Personal Development Programme for professional players within English Rugby, discusses positive change and support during the coronavirus pandemic. Since its inception in 1998, the RPA have become the collective voice of professional rugby players within England, supporting players throughout their sporting career and beyond, focusing primarily on player welfare, personal development, and career transition. Luke currently works closely with players at Harlequins and England Mens 7’s. having previously delivered the Gain Line programme at both Leicester Tigers and Northampton Saints. What guidance and initiatives does the RPA Gain Line Programme provide for players? “The RPA Gain Line Programme has led a positive cultural change in players, clubs and the game by consistently prioritising the needs of the person behind the player. National player engagement in their own personal development has grown from 30 per cent in 2010, to a record high of 91 per cent in 2020, the fourth consecutive year over 80 per cent. ISSUE TWELVE ★ SEPTEMBER 2020
“It is a vital provision, backed by the game, to help players proactively develop as people while playing, support their wellbeing, prepare for their lives after rugby and benefit performance. Over 80 per cent of players state the programme benefits their on-pitch performance. “From induction to transition, players are supported individually throughout their career by their Mental Health First Aid trained Development Manager. They provide guidance and access to a network of specialists across a range of areas including wellbeing, career exploration, education, financial awareness, life, and professional skills. This includes creating bespoke initiatives such as the Career Insights programme, Academy Induction Day, Transition Pathway,
LiftTheWeight mental health campaign and the RADAR self-assessment tool. “The Rugby Players’ Association also has an official charity, Restart Rugby, which provides financial and practical support to players and their families facing hardship, including help with the cost of medical treatment, rehabilitation equipment, counselling, education, and career transition. Restart is also there when players need emotional support by providing access to a 24/7 confidential counselling service.” How has the RPA been supporting players during the coronavirus pandemic? “During lockdown, we have seen an unprecedented 150 per cent increase in player interactions with our Development Managers. We have also seen a record 91
