In a proactive move to address the escalating concern of gambling-related issues among rugby players, the Rugby Players Association (RPA), Rugby Football Union (RFU), and Premiership Rugby (PRL) have forged a strategic four-year partnership with Epic. This alliance aims to implement a comprehensive educational program centered around gambling awareness, extending their commitment beyond the pitch to the well-being of players.
Year One and Three:
In the inaugural and third years of the program, the focus will be on delivering targeted education to elite players across various tiers of the sport. Premiership clubs, Championship clubs, the Red Roses squad, and both the England Sevens men’s and women’s teams will benefit from specialized training sessions. These sessions will emphasize recognizing signs of problem gambling, understanding the potential harm, and providing essential guidance on seeking assistance.
Year Two and Four:
The second and fourth years of the program will broaden its scope to include regional academies catering to young athletes aged 16 to 18. Additionally, attention will be directed towards women’s rugby, encompassing all women’s Premier 15s clubs and their younger player populations. By reaching out to these burgeoning talents, the initiative aims to instill a culture of responsible behavior surrounding gambling from an early stage in their careers.
Expert Perspectives:
Richard Bryan, the RPA Player Welfare Director, underscores the significance of this partnership, emphasizing the evolution from the initial program launched in 2017. The collaboration with Epic, RFU, and PRL marks a significant stride forward in safeguarding the well-being of players both on and off the field.
John Millington, Director of Sports Partnerships at Epic Risk Management, echoes Bryan’s sentiment, expressing enthusiasm for the expanded scope of their work within the rugby community. The collective effort reflects a commendable joined-up approach, highlighting the commitment of all stakeholders towards addressing this pressing issue proactively.
The collaborative effort between RPA, RFU, PRL, and Epic represents a proactive approach to address the growing concern of gambling-related harm within rugby. By implementing a structured, multi-year educational program, the initiative aims to equip players across all levels with the knowledge and resources necessary to navigate the complexities of gambling responsibly. This holistic approach not only underscores the commitment to player welfare but also sets a precedent for collaborative action within the broader sports community. As the program unfolds over the next four years, it holds the promise of fostering a culture of awareness, resilience, and support, ensuring that rugby remains a safe and inclusive environment for all its participants.