Unlocking player well-being and success: A recap of our recent webinar

Last week, Rugby League Cares hosted an insightful webinar dedicated to the well-being of players, their families, partners, and parents.

The webinar featured experts Francis Stephenson (Transitions Manager), Bob Beswick (former player), and Paul Johnson (Player Welfare Manager at St. Helens), who shared invaluable insights on athletic career transitions, brain health, and the comprehensive well-being support available to players.

Key takeaways from the webinar:

Athletic End-of-Career Transitions: Francis Stephenson emphasized the importance of preparing for life after rugby. He highlighted the potential challenges players face during this transition, including emotional adjustment, financial difficulties, and mental health concerns. He also outlined the resources and support available through Rugby League Cares, such as career planning, education grants, and emotional support.

Brain Health and Concussion: Bob Beswick shared his personal experiences with concussion and its impact on his life and career. He stressed the importance of recognizing and managing concussion symptoms, advocating for open communication and adherence to return-to-play protocols.

Player Welfare and Support: Paul Johnson provided a glimpse into his role as a Player Welfare Manager, emphasizing the holistic approach to player well-being at St. Helens. He highlighted the importance of creating an environment where players feel valued, cared for, and supported both on and off the field.

The Unsung Heroes: Families as the Cornerstone of Athlete Well-being

The webinar underscored the vital role that parents, partners, and families play in supporting athletes, not just during their playing careers but also in the crucial transition period that follows retirement. They form the athlete's immediate support network, offering emotional backing, understanding, and encouragement when it's needed most. As Francis Stephenson aptly pointed out, families remain a constant even when other members of the athlete's support network, such as coaches and teammates, may become less accessible post-retirement. It is within this intimate circle that athletes often feel most comfortable expressing their concerns and anxieties, making families an indispensable pillar of their well-being.

Empowering Families: Knowledge is Key

Recognising the pivotal role of families, the webinar emphasized the importance of equipping them with the same information and resources provided to the athletes themselves. By understanding the challenges and opportunities associated with athletic transitions, brain health, and the available support systems, families can become informed advocates for their loved ones. They can encourage athletes to access the various programs and resources offered by Rugby League Cares, ensuring they receive the support they need to navigate the complexities of life during and after their sporting careers. In essence, empowered families contribute significantly to building a resilient and thriving athlete community.

What you can expect:

• Gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with athletic career transitions.
• Learn how to recognize and manage concussion symptoms effectively.
• Discover the comprehensive well-being support available to rugby league players and their families.
• Hear inspiring stories from former players and welfare professionals.
• Gain practical tips on supporting athletes throughout their careers and beyond.

Call to action:

We encourage you to watch the full webinar recording to gain a comprehensive understanding of the topics discussed. By investing your time in this valuable resource, you'll be equipped to support the rugby league players in your life and contribute to their overall well-being and success.

Rugby League Cares is committed to providing comprehensive support to players and their families. If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out. We're here to help!
In conclusion, the webinar provided a wealth of knowledge and insights into player well-being. By watching the full recording, you'll gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by rugby league players and their families. You'll also learn about the valuable resources and support available through Rugby League Cares. We encourage you to take advantage of this opportunity to enhance your knowledge and contribute to the well-being of those involved in the sport.