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 19 of the Career Development Q&A features Reed Mahoney from the Parramatta Eels.
Q1 What off field development are you completing or have completed?
I have completed Cert III in Fitness, Cert III-IV Teacher’s Aide, Cert III-IV Small Business and Diploma of Business. I’m currently studying a Bachelor Sport Business at Australian College of Physical Education.
Q2 Why did you choose this field?
I enjoy the business side of things and wanted to know more and understand how it all works.
Q3 Did you always have this career path in mind?
No, I’m still unsure what I want to do after football. I’m gathering information from everywhere to find what I’ll do post-footy.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CBmwXKeJdDC/
Q4 Have you utilised any support available to players through the NRL-RLPA Wellbeing and Education program?
Yes, our welfare/well-being support officer at Parramatta has pushed me in the right direction to be proactive outside footy.
Q5 What plans or goals do you have for post-retirement?
I’m still unsure what I want to do. I’m just trying different things to see what I enjoy off the field. It could be something in business – either starting my own business or working in this space.
Q6 If you could give yourself one piece of career advice back in your rookie year what would it be?
Just to be proactive.
Q7 How important is it for players and the industry to prioritise career development opportunities?
It’s very important to be proactive with study or something you’re interested in to help you outside of rugby league.
Q8 How have the skills you have developed through playing NRL helped with your educational development?
Meeting people who want to help you off the field has given me motivation to do well for myself and my educational development.
Q9 How important is having the support of your coach and football staff when pursuing education options?
Yeah it’s really important, I think having that support gives you confidence in doing what you want to do in the education and development space.
Q10 Was there a time you felt like giving up on your studies and if so, what helped you keep going?
Yeah, I have my days where I struggle and don’t want to study but I have to think long-term and it’s in my best interests.
Great work @MahoneyReed! Reedy is the official ambassador for Eels charity partner Giant Steps!
Giant Steps was founded to help educate children and families experiencing autism, to alleviate associated stress & to guide in the achievement of measurable results. #PARRAdisepic.twitter.com/kO0V3zKbtB
Q11 What is something you are currently doing away from the field that you are most proud of? (e.g. career related activity, community work, supporting a charity or something people might not know about you)
I’m an ambassador at giant steps, I worked there when I was 18 for nearly two years and now, I’m able to help and give back.
Going to University was big for me as I’m not the smartest, but I know I can work hard to get it finished. Also being the first person in my family to attend University is something that I’m proud of.
