More than 300 Intrust Super Premiership NSW players will come together in Sydney tomorrow (19 November) for NSWRL’s annual Semi-Pro Day, a program supporting NRL hopefuls competing in the state's premier competition.
Semi-Pro Day, to be held at the Australian College of Physical Education (ACPE) at Sydney Olympic Park, aims to assist in both personal and professional development, as well as providing players with invaluable life lessons as they juggle full-time work, heavy training loads and responsibilities of everyday life.
Former first graders Anthony Quinn and Paul Whatuira will join guest speakers including Tony Parsons, Paul Heptonstall and Ryan Porter, who will discuss topics including drug awareness, finance, mental health and concussion.
The players will also take part in 'theatre sports' - an engaging program that places players in real-life scenarios.
NSWRL Welfare and Education Officer, Greg Nichols, who formerly represented North Sydney in the NSW Cup, believes Semi-Pro Day assists players in balancing their lives.
“These programs are designed to acknowledge the efforts of our players and to help grow and develop their potential in every aspect of their lives,” Nichols said.
“Semi-Pro Day allows players to receive unique access and support and we want them to realise that they’re not alone in their quest to become NRL players.
“It’s such a tough pathway to make it to the NRL and most guys in their position have many things going on in their lives, including work, relationships and Rugby League.”
