Women In Rugby Careers: Where To Find Them

One of the hardest parts in todays job-seeking world can actually be finding the jobs that are out there and applying for them, especially if you're trying to break into the industry or you don't have any connections or networks. But, there are various avenues where you can find job opportunities relevant to rugby. Whether you are interested in coaching, sports management, marketing, or any other aspect of the sport, here are some places to look for rugby-related jobs:

1. Rugby Clubs and Organizations

One of the most obvious places to start your job search is with local, national or international rugby clubs and organizations. They often have openings for coaches, administrators, marketing professionals, and other roles displayed on their websites. Sending out emails or calling up any contact details you can find for the clubs is also worth the effort to get the most information. Each country’s rugby union, such as the RFU (England), NZRU (New Zealand), or SARU (South Africa), often has a careers section and premier rugby clubs sometimes list job opportunities on their official websites.

2. Sporting Goods Companies

Companies that manufacture and sell rugby equipment and apparel may have job openings in areas such as sales, marketing, product development, and more. Check out big rugby companies like Canterbury, Gilbert, Under Armour, Samurai and Akuma sports.

3. Sports Management and Recruitment Companies

Sports management firms that specialize in rugby may have job opportunities in areas such as talent representation, event management, and marketing. Look for agencies that work with rugby players and teams, particularly RFU registered agents. Specialised recruitment agencies such as Sports Recruitment International (SRi) and Sportspeople focus on executive search and recruitment for the global sports industry, including rugby.

4. Rugby Publications and Media Outlets

If you have a passion for writing or journalism, consider looking for job openings at rugby publications, websites, and media outlets. You could work as a sports journalist, editor, or content creator. Check out our post on social media for suggestions on accounts and companies in this area.

5. Rugby Events and Tournaments

Major rugby events and tournaments often hire staff on a temporary basis to assist with operations, marketing, hospitality, ticketing and more. Keep an eye out for job postings related to events like the Rugby World Cup (found here), Six Nations or even the Olympics/Paralympics (applications open far in advance).

6. Sports Job Boards

The next most obvious place to look would be platforms advertising sports jobs like Global Sports Jobs , Jobs in Sport, Sport Careers Agency. Search for rugby specific job listings, or try other sports out to build your portfolio/experience in the sporting world. For a less rugby or sport specific website where you can search using relevant keywords, there's always LinkedIn Jobs, Indeed, and Glassdoor Jobs (with company ratings & reviews).

7.Networking and Professional Associations

Attending rugby conferences and events (tournaments, networking meetings) often provides opportunities to connect with industry professionals. Joining rugby associations and groups or online communities on social media (see out other blog post) can be valuable for sharing ideas and job leads.

Using these resources, you can find a range of opportunities in healthcare, coaching, administration, marketing, media, and other roles connected to rugby. By exploring these avenues, connecting with likeminded individuals or companies in the sector and staying proactive in your job search, you can increase your chances of finding a rewarding career in the field of rugby. Good luck!