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League Ahead

About League Ahead

As part of the 2023 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), it was agreed that a new stand-alone entity, League Ahead, would be established to oversee and deliver wellbeing and education support for all contracted NRL and NRLW players.

With the continued growth of the game, there is an increased need for dedicated, NRL/NRLW player-focused support. League Ahead is funded from the players’ share of revenue and its purpose is to meet the evolving needs of current players through targeted wellbeing and education initiatives.

League Ahead is governed by a Board of Directors:

  • Independent Chair: Lynne Anderson
  • Director: Clint Newton (RLPA CEO)
  • Director: Deidre Anderson (RLPA Director)
  • Director: Andrew Abdo (NRL CEO)
  • Director: Gary Weiss (ARLC Commissioner)

Program Scope

League Ahead exists to promote and support the physical, cultural, intellectual, and mental wellbeing of contracted elite rugby league players.

This is achieved through leadership, expertise, and the coordinated delivery of programs and services via dedicated Wellbeing and Education Managers embedded at each NRL club.

Program Focus

These managers work directly with players to provide tailored support and resources across key areas, including:

  • Wellbeing and Mental Health
  • Career and Professional Development
  • Education
  • Cultural Support

Accessing Mental Health Support

If you are a current NRL or NRLW player and would like to access mental health support, help is available:

  1. In an Emergency:
    If the situation is urgent or life-threatening, please contact emergency services (000) immediately.
  2. Contact Your Club Wellbeing and Education Manager (WEM):
    Your WEM is your first point of contact for confidential mental health support and guidance.
  3. 24/7 Confidential Support – Telus Health:
    Phone: 1300 460 205 (Available 24/7)
    This is a confidential, non-identified counselling and support service available to all players and their immediate family members.
  4. Referral to a Mental Health Practitioner:
    Players have immediate access to six fully funded sessions with a trusted network of skilled, experienced and specialised mental health professionals who understand the unique demands and nuances of elite athletic career.

    To arrange a confidential referral to one of our network providers, please contact:

    • Dr Amy Joscelyne: ajoscelyne@leagueahead.com.au
    • Stephanie Clemmet: sclemmet@leagueahead.com.au

    Contacting League Ahead

    For any questions related to League Ahead, please contact:

    Justine Whipper
    Chief Executive Officer
    Jwhipper@leagueahead.com.au

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