News

Dallaglio asks for PRA funds

October 16 2008

Lawrence Dallaglio has called on the RFU and Premier Rugby to support the PRA, the English players' union, by endorsing a new funding deal currently on the table that will underpin the PRA's continued service to the game for the next five years.

Dallaglio's call was heard by an appreciative audience at the Foreign Office in London on Tuesday evening, where he was delivering the fourth annual Obolensky Lecture, sponsored by the Sunday Times.

The former Wasps and England captain, who retired last May after 18 years in the game, underlined the imperative for a well-funded and independent player's collective in English rugby, pointing out that the professional demands of today's game heightened the need for balance in players lives, and support for the growing number of injured players who have fallen victim to the increasing physical impact of the professional game - such as recently befell the unfortunate James Forrester.

"Players (need) to have interests outside of the sport to provide the necessary balance and perspective," said the 85-times capped Dallaglio.

"Rugby players are not machines. The balance between work and life is key."

"The shelf life of professional rugby players is decreasing and statistically, one player per club per season will have to retire prematurely due to injury.

"It is therefore essential that the game provides the necessary support to help these players to cope with the transition from professional sportsman to former sportsman.

"Much of this work is delivered through the PRA Player Development Programme which helps to provide players with support as they prepare for their careers after rugby."