Today we speak to former professional rugby player, Rich Bryan. Having experienced the highs and lows of professional rugby (including having Rusty as a teammate at Bath), Rich’s playing career was ended by a difficult knee injury at the age of 30, resulting in a challenging career change that would test his resilience and mental well-being.

In 2011 Rich joined the Rugby Players Association (RPA) - the representative body and trade union for current and former elite male and female rugby players in England, and for the past 10 years he has held the position of Player Welfare Director. As well as advising members on legal issues, he also leads numerous player welfare-related programmes across a broad range of issues including head injuries, agents, insurance and mental well-being support.   

Rich shares his journey with us, and the wisdom he has gained through setbacks faced during his career, which he now uses in his work to advise and support within the professional ruby world.

In this episode:

08:26 Struggles with identity, on and off the pitch.

41:15 Reflecting on the challenges that come with transitions from professional sports. 

47:24 Facing new experiences, and navigating uncertainty with teamwork.

58:27 Importance of leadership in creating a positive environment.

01:02:04 The importance of strong support and resilience during transition.

You can connect with Rich Bryan here:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/rich-bryan-5a759412

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https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-bouncebackability-podcast/