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.
Part 18 of the Career Development Q&A features Nat Butcher from the Sydney Roosters.
Q1 What off field development are you completing or have completed?
I am completing a Bachelor of Business Administration at ACU. I have completed Cert IV and a Diploma in Business with EABS.
Q2 Why did you choose this field?
I chose this field because I enjoy learning all facets of a business.
Q3 Did you always have this career path in mind?
No, I was not sure exactly what I wanted to do after football.
After finishing high school, I had my mind set on playing NRL and now that I am, it’s great to be able to start using this time to decide what I want to do after football.
Q4 Have you utilised any support available to players through the NRL-RLPA Wellbeing and Education program?
I have utilised the Education grants available to players.
Q5 What plans or goals do you have for post-retirement?
I’m not sure yet. The great thing about studying business is that it is a broad topic and I’m sure over the next few years I’ll figure it out.
Ahead of his 50th NRL appearance, Nat Butcher talks to RoostersTV about his first milestone and the clash with the Storm 🐓 #EastsToWinhttps://t.co/NjI73BuD3c
Q6 How important is it for players and the industry to prioritise career development opportunities?
I think it’s very important. Rugby league is a short career compared to the rest of your working life and I believe it’s important for players to utilise the NRL-RLPA wellbeing and education programs and plan for their careers after football.
Q7 How have the skills you have developed through playing NRL helped with your educational development?
Having the ability to work hard has been the biggest skill I’ve learned while playing NRL. I believe people can achieve whatever they want if they work hard enough for it.
https://www.instagram.com/p/B3RvyPfhX57/
Q8 How important is having the support of your coach and football staff when pursuing education options?
It is very important. Coach always says better people make better players and we have his full support along with the rest of the football staff in pursuing our education.
Q9 Was there a time you felt like giving up on your studies and if so, what helped you keep going?
Yes, about midway through each assessment I feel like giving up but I have a great support group around me in the football staff at the club and the ACU staff that help me get through it.
Check out the previous Career Development Q&As below!
