RPA Impact & Insights Report - 2025/26 - Report - Page 25

45%
of retired players said
they struggled with
their identity after
leaving the game
95%
said they wanted
some form of physical
support during the
first two to three years
after retirement
“
LEADERSHIP PERSPECTIVE
Ethan Waller, Former PREM Rugby Player, now Financial Planner at Titan Wealth
Retirement isn’t a light switch. You don’t suddenly turn off being who you were.
It’s much more of a dimmer, and it happens over time.
That’s the best way I can describe my experience of retiring from professional rugby. Like a lot
of players, I thought I was prepared for it, but the reality was very different. The first six months
were tough. There was definitely a loss of purpose and, at times, I found myself drifting.
Looking back, preparing for life after rugby while I was still playing made a massive difference.
I tried all sorts of things throughout my career – personal training, studying for a degree and
running businesses – and, just as importantly, I discovered what wasn’t for me. If I hadn’t done
that, those first few months after retirement would have been even tougher, and I’m not sure
I’d be in the position I am today, genuinely enjoying this next chapter of my career.
The RPA played a huge part in that journey. It gave me the opportunity to explore different
paths while I was still playing, but the support didn’t stop when I retired. Those regular checkins and conversations helped me stay connected to the game while I worked out what the next
version of me looked like. You’re not suddenly a different person overnight, and having people
who understand that makes a huge difference.
My advice to current players is simple: enjoy every minute of your rugby career, but say yes to
every opportunity that comes your way. You never know what might spark your interest or lead
to your next career. The earlier you start preparing for life after rugby, the more choices you’ll
have when the final whistle comes.
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