governance


our founders


Rachael Burford

Rachael Burford


"I’m really excited to be involved in the Global Rugby Players Foundation. This is a great opportunity to expand and develop support for those players who are transitioning off the pitch and into the next chapter of their career."

Dan Carter

Dan Carter


"What a huge honour it is to be a founder of the GRPF alongside some legends of the game. When you hang up the boots it presents various different challenges and we wanted to have a global support system for those players, no matter where you played, how many games you played professionally or how you exited the game. We’re here to support you."

Thierry Dusautoir

Thierry Dusautoir


"The GRPF has the ambition to be a key which opens the gates to a healthy and fulfilling future for any rugby player. I am proud to be part of this project and to show our solidarity goes beyond the game."

Census Johnston

Census Johnston


"Being a part of the GRPF allows me to share my experience of transitioning out of the game and also be a representation of our pacific people."

Siya Kolisi

Siya Kolisi


"When you stop (playing), you feel like you’re alone, and that’s what we want to try and help with… we want you to still have that camaraderie."

Richie McCaw

Richie McCaw


"I’m excited that I can contribute in a small way to launch this foundation, a foundation that will help other professional players thrive all over the globe when they hang up their boots."

Conrad Smith

Conrad Smith


"I wanted to be a founder because I believe rugby is all about teamwork, camaraderie and supporting your mates. And I don't think that needs to stop when your career finishes. That is what I believe the foundation is going to offer to fellow players, and that’s why I'm behind it."

Kristine Sommer

Kristine Sommer


"Life after rugby can be extremely challenging… that’s why we’ve created the GRPF. To have that strong sense of community, camaraderie, and networking for all players as they transition to that next chapter in their lives".

Jonny Wilkinson

Jonny Wilkinson


"I think the GRPF is an amazing opportunity for us all to come together to support each other towards uncovering what we’re truly capable of… we’re so much more than rugby players and there is so much incredible stuff still to come."

Sharni Williams

Sharni Williams


"I can’t wait to open up opportunities in an expanding women’s game and to give those that have stepped away access to resources they may not have had whilst playing. Together let’s reframe the concept of life after rugby."

The Role of The Founders

The Role of The Founders

The Role of The Founders

Vision and Mission Development:

Our Founders were heavily involved in creating our message. As rugby players themselves they understand deeply what is needed in this space and have directed the vision and mission accordingly.


Building Partnerships and Networks:

The Founders are able to use their vast rugby networks for the betterment of the foundation. Over their collective years of playing rugby they have connected with several people who may be willing to support this cause.


Public Relations and Advocacy:

Already advocates for the game of rugby, our Founders are now advocating for the

foundation too. Across social media and any events they may appear at, they have the

responsibility of representing the foundation.


Inspiring and Motivating Others:

As well-known former players, our Founders often inspire and encourage other former

players and supporters to engage with the foundation. Their personal passion and

commitment are vital to keeping momentum and enthusiasm high among participants and stakeholders.

Vision and Mission Development:

Our Founders were heavily involved in creating our message. As rugby players themselves they understand deeply what is needed in this space and have directed the vision and mission accordingly.


Building Partnerships and Networks:

The Founders are able to use their vast rugby networks for the betterment of the foundation. Over their collective years of playing rugby they have connected with several people who may be willing to support this cause.


Public Relations and Advocacy:

Already advocates for the game of rugby, our Founders are now advocating for the

foundation too. Across social media and any events they may appear at, they have the

responsibility of representing the foundation.


Inspiring and Motivating Others:

As well-known former players, our Founders often inspire and encourage other former

players and supporters to engage with the foundation. Their personal passion and

commitment are vital to keeping momentum and enthusiasm high among participants and stakeholders.

George Gregan

Chair

Natalie Frank

Trustee

Dan Carter

Trustee

Bill Beaumont GBE DL

Trustee

David Quinlan

Trustee

Sara Heath

CEO

Peter Brown

Board Advisor

Our Staff

Our Staff


Sara Heath

CEO

Sally Evans

Head of Operations and Business Development

Ben McGregor

Head of Global Programmes

Paul Evans

Funded Programmes Lead

Amy Salmon

Communications Manager

Want to keep in touch?

Want to keep in touch?

Want to keep in touch?

@2025 GRPF copyrights

Charity number 1204658

@2025 GRPF copyrights

Charity number 1204658

@2025 GRPF copyrights

Charity number 1204658