Charlie Mulraine commented, “We are delighted to be working with the Professional Rugby Players’ Association and supporting their careers programme. As an ex-professional rugby player I am well aware of the demands placed on professional players and how there is rarely time to consider a life outside of the game. We are excited about the opportunity to help the players specifically tackle this issue. Mulraine Sport provides introductions to organisations across a number of different sectors, in the form of career open days and off season work experience.”

Jonty Watt runs a search and selection company specializing in the financial services, broking, dealing, and banking recruitment for City firms. Jonty is able to provide careers advice on ‘City jobs’ and also provide players with work opportunities and contacts.

Discussing the new partnership, Jonty Watt said, "I set up WATT Search and Selection to provide both banks and brokers a consultative headhunting service and as a keen (ex) rugby player I saw the similarities in qualities of successful brokers in the city and rugby players. After meeting with the PRA team, we formulated a mutually beneficial strategy of how I might help players find a route into the city, the jobs involved and to take away some of the mystery that shrouds it. 

I am overjoyed that the PRA have agreed to an association with WATT Search and Selection going forward, as professional rugby players are counted amongst a dwindling number of sportsmen who have both a team and an individual ethic, a universal respect from the outside world for the way the game is played and transferable skills for business life after their playing careers are over."

This announcement is the first phase of providing external support for players who are in the process of retiring from the game. Whilst it is difficult for players to gain work experience whilst playing professionally, the PRA hopes to establish relationships with organizations that can assist players in fulfilling ‘life after rugby’ ambitions which could include ‘off season’ internships and work experience.