The Rugby League Players’ Association (RLPA) has launched a new content series promoting career development opportunities for players and the importance of planning for life after footy.
The Career Development Q&A will each week feature a player who has engaged in meaningful development opportunities away from the field, 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 1 of the Career Development Q&A features Wests Tigers star and RLPA Player Advisory Group member, Chris Lawrence.
Q1 What off field development are you completing or have completed?
I’m currently completing Bachelor of Commerce majoring in sports administration. I have a business One Wellbeing which inspires and empowers athletes and business leaders to live their best life. This is done through athlete education programs and corporate performance, mindset and resilience workshops.
I have a passion for business and sharing my knowledge of how to overcome setbacks, when placed in high pressure environments. I want to share my knowledge with other athletes about the benefits of engaging in something away from sport.
Q3 Did you always have this career path in mind?
I always had a passion and interest in these areas.
Q4 Have you utilised any support available to players through the NRL-RLPA Wellbeing and Education program?
I have utilised education grants through the NRL-RLPA Wellbeing and Education program.
Q5 What plans or goals do you have for post-retirement?
I want to grow and build my business to have an impact on the lives of people struggling with adversity. I would also like to share my knowledge with as many athletes as possible so they can maximise their careers.
Q6 If you could give yourself one piece of career advice back in your rookie year what would it be?
Listen and learn from those who have been there and done it. The two best pieces of advice I have been given:
if you only do what you have always done, you will only get what you have always got
success leave clues – learn from successful people
Q7 How important is it for players and the industry to prioritise career development opportunities?
It is very important, because I believe it helps on-field performance and you need to maximise the opportunities provided while they are available.
Q8 How have the skills you have developed through playing NRL helped with your educational development?
It has helped with my focus and discipline in sticking to development opportunities away from sport.
"Given I've been around for 14-15 seasons I feel like I have a responsibility to make sure the playing group is looked after as much as possible and realistically try to reduce the blow for clubs." — @chrislawrence04
Q9 How important is having the support of your coach and football staff when pursuing education options?
It is very important to have the support of your club.
Q10 Was there a time you felt like giving up on your studies and if so, what helped you keep going?
I stopped doing a bachelor or exercise science early in my career. I stopped this because of a lack of support. I found other things that were flexible and provided support.
Stay tuned for next week’s Career Development Q&A with another member of the RLPA Player Advisory Group!
