Rabbitohs first grade players Dave Tyrrell and Jason Clark are helping the next wave of Rabbitohs to prepare for life after football in their role as mentors for the 'Trading up with the NRL' program.
The NRL operates the program through funding received from the Australian Government, and has a focus on increasing the retention and completion rates of Australian apprentices who are also involved in Rugby League.
At the Rabbitohs, NYC players such as Hayden Preece and Dominic Timteo are currently being mentored by Tyrrell and Clark – both of whom have had experience as tradies (electrician and carpenter respectively).
Mentors, such as Tyrrell and Clark, must have had experience in a Rugby League environment (NRL) and should have started or completed an apprenticeship or had similar relevant experience. They draw on this experience along with a range of strategies to build re lationships with mentees, employer groups, parents and the Club.
The program is part of the wider Careerwise program that has been designed to enhance performance, to help our athletes play a better game on the field and in every area of life, including work, school and further education.
Every club has a qualified Career Coach whose job it is to deliver the CareerWise program and help players plan for life after sport. The program is delivered to players of all ages from elite juniors (U16s and U18s) to State League players, U20s and NRL players.
Based on best practice in career development, the program is there as support through every age and stage. It will help players make well-informed choices about their future career. It will also help
pave the way for the future by helping players engage in work, study, work experience, volunteer work and networking that will help them make a smooth transition from professional athlete to professional something-else.
This article first appeared on rabbitohs.com.au
Video courtesy of rabbitohs.com.au
