The Rugby Players' Association (RPA) is a trade union representing elite rugby rugby union players in England. The RPA is the representative body and collective voice of elite rugby players in England and represents more than 600 male and female current rugby players, as well as more than 100 former players. They support, promote & protect past, present & future elite rugby players in England. Their vision is for players to be valued and respected as partners in a united game.

Overview

RPA members qualify for a wide range of benefits, including: independent representation; legal advice; personal and professional development; playing insurance; education; confidential counselling; transition support; and more. Members can also access the support of a charity, Restart, in the event of serious illness, injury or hardship. Their aims as stated on their website are: AUTHENTIC: Our agenda is co-created with our members. We work to build honest relationships and seek to add value to every room we enter. The RPA will always act with integrity. DRIVEN: Stepping forward to create positive change. We wish to be re-evaluated. We are passionate about Rugby Union, working relentlessly to create a united game. OPEN: We work to build a more inclusive game, empowering players to speak up about things that matter to them. We are agile, adaptable and transparent, always wanting feedback. SUPPORTIVE: We exist to support players past, present and future. We are caring and dependable, always working behind the scenes. Our team goes above and beyond for each other and our members. The RPA was founded by professional player Damian Hopley, who was forced to early retirement after an injury. The RPA announced that Hopley was to leave the organisation after 24 years in charge of the company. His last day was on Monday 15 August, with a visit to Wasps. On 16 January 2023, it was announced that Christian Day, was elected the new General Secretary of the RPA, following an election to the membership.

Current board

The following rugby union professionals playing in England make up the current RPA Players' Board, as of the 2024-25 season.

Awards

The following have been recognised at the annual RPA Awards, as voted on by professional rugby union players in England, since 2010:

15 Under 23

The following teams represent the 15 Under 23, consisting of the top players in England aged 23 and under, as selected by voters, each year since 2022:

Hall of Fame

The following players, coaches, officials, administrators and commentators have been inducted into the RPA Hall of Fame: