The Career Development Q&A is an RLPA content series that promotes career development opportunities for players and the importance of planning for life after footy.
Each article will feature an NRL player who has engaged in meaningful development opportunities away from the field, while also providing an insight for other players and the industry about their journey.
The content series also highlights academic achievements from within the playing group, many of which have utilised the support available through the NRL-RLPA Wellbeing and Education program.
The series returns this week with a spotlight on a Cronulla-Sharks young gun.
Part 13 of the Career Development Q&A features Cronulla Sharks playmaker, Connor Tracey.
Q1 What off field development are you completing or have completed?
Last year I completed a Bachelor of Accounting and Financial Services (which took five years). This year I am studying for the Level 1 CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) exam.
Q2 Why did you choose this field?
I have always enjoyed analytical problem-solving and the financial markets. This made the financial industry appealing to me.
Q3 Did you always have this career path in mind?
My goal was always to play NRL. To work in finance post-footy has been my goal since I have started studying.
Q4 Have you utilised any support available to players through the NRL-RLPA Wellbeing and Education program?
In my first few years of University I used the NRL mentor program and I was given a tutor. Financially, the education grants have made studying very accessible.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CDUxJCYDMaf/
Q5 What plans or goals do you have for post-retirement?
I definitely want to work in the finance industry. At the moment my goal is to work in Investment Banking (which is why I am studying the CFA).
Q6 How important is it for players and the industry to prioritise career development opportunities?
It is vital to ensure young players have access to degrees and courses that allow them to transition successfully post-NRL. Our career after footy will be much longer than our playing career.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CEfrgx0DuFQ/
Q7 How have the skills you have developed through playing NRL helped with your educational development?
Discipline is a major skill needed in order to play / train at NRL level, this is transferrable into having the discipline to study.
Q8 How important is having the support of your coach and football staff when pursuing education options?
It is very important. I have had to ask for days off or to change training times in order to attend Uni or exams and both clubs I have been at understand the importance of studying.
In the sheds with Connor Tracey after his first starting appearance this year#UpUp
Q9 What is something you are currently doing away from the field that you are most proud of?
My current study for the CFA takes up most of my spare time. It is known as the hardest finance exam in the world and requires 300 hours of study. The amount of content it covers is super challenging and it only has a 40% pass rate!
Read more Career Development Q&As from across the NRL below:
