RPA put on networking night

By Mark Stevens

Members of the Exeter Chiefs squad were recently given an insight into the world of commerce and the skills required to succeed in business at specially arranged Business Club Networking Evening set up by the Rugby Players’ Association.

Held at Saphire Living Space in the city, senior and academy players were able to engage in conversation with representatives from over 50 local businesses, whilst at the same time developing their network of contacts.

The RPA Business Club Networking Evenings are held across the country for players from each Aviva Premiership Club as part of The RPA Player Development Programme (PDP).

Not all players know what they want to do once their playing career comes to an end and the RPA evenings are designed to help them make initial contacts and explore interests they may have. The programme aims to individually assist players in their personal and professional development and provides them with the skills and information needed to help them decide about their future careers.

RPA Player Development Manager for Exeter, Josh Frape, who was instrumental in staging the event, believes that opportunities like these are invaluable to players. He said: “The night was designed to be fun and relaxed, but also with a real cross section of businesses delivering some great insight and important messages."

As well as a special Q&A session with RPA Players Rep Haydn Thomas and former Chiefs lock Chris Bentley, the setting also allowed prop Hoani Tui to show off his culinary skills.

Commenting on the night, Chiefs hooker Greg Bateman said: "This was a great event for the lads. Business, like rugby, is all about teamwork and it is so interesting to hear from people who run their own businesses about the needs and skill sets required to succeed in business.

"It was an excellent example of the connections between our rugby club and local businesses who have the sort of knowledge and experience which is invaluable to help inform our players and provide guidance for the inevitable transition into life after rugby."