Rugby League Coaching Manuals

The Rugby League Players Association (RLPA) is currently seeking opinion from its Membership and key experts on how to address the issue of the alcohol culture in Rugby League.

The RLPA is of the opinion that the ‘ game’ has to take responsibility for where ‘game’ is  now – Administrators, Clubs, the NRL, Players and the Media.

 “Young men are one of the most troubled segments in today’s society, disproportionately appearing in crime, aggression and death statistics. 

"Accordingly, it is appropriate for the whole of Rugby League to take a good hard look at itself and learn about how we all help or hinder our young Players to become responsible men in regards to their alcohol consumption. 

"As well as the need to take into account the expectations of the community and how, as a code we treat members of that community, particularly women”, RLPA Managing Director, Matt Rodwell  said today.

“Society has a drinking problem, that at times is accentuated through sport. It is not an isolated NRL Player issue – you need only look at the recent Federal Government campaign for support”.

The RLPA is also keen to remind that Rugby League Players are among the most active sports people for community service  in Australia. Most Players are upstanding citizens who give so much of their time selflessly to the community. 

 Rodwell said “Whilst we do not shy away from the behavior of some Players, the RLPA is keen to reinforce that responsible alcohol consumption is a problem for only a minority of Players”.

“Accordingly, holding ourselves to a hastily arranged, lofty standard might do some good but a short term knee jerk reaction to a serious problem is  not what is required. Changing a deep-rooted culture is at the core of the solution” Rodwell said.

“To all those involved in Rugby League, the RLPA emphasize to take this opportunity to understand more about how collectively the drinking culture of Rugby League can be addressed  –  that of Players, the Administrators,  Clubs, members of the Media and even that of the Fans”.

“The responsible consumption of alcohol remains a key message in the ongoing education delivered to the Players”.