WE ARE LEAGUE AHEAD

At League Ahead, we back the full story - helping players grow through the game and move toward a clearer future.

We support every NRL and NRLW player to do more with their identity, mindset and future - and become more because of it.

We're not about doing things the way they've always been done. Our approach is authentic, future-focused, and co-designed with players themselves - because no two journeys look the same.

Our programs support real growth - putting players first as people, with a focus on mental fitness, life skills, career pathways and gender-responsive support that reflect player identity, values and goals.

We're not here to tick boxes or wait for transition. We're future-forward, helping players build momentum now and shape what's next on their own terms.

Because we believe when players are backed as people first, they thrive as athletes, leaders and changemakers.

ABOUT US

Our Mandate

As part of the 2023 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), League Ahead was established as an independent entity to oversee and deliver wellbeing and education support for all contracted NRL and NRLW players.

With the continued growth of the game, there is an increased need for dedicated, NRL/NRLW player-focused support. League Ahead is funded from the players' share of revenue and its purpose is to meet the evolving needs of current players through targeted wellbeing and education initiatives.

Our Governance

League Ahead operates with:

  • Independent board governance

  • Professional oversight and accountability

  • Evidence-based program design

  • Industry-leading privacy and data protection standards

  • Clear accountability to both NRL and RLPA while maintaining player-centred independence

WHAT WE DELIVER

Our Strategic Priorities

League Ahead delivers holistic player development services through four interconnected pillars:

  • Life Readiness - Practical life skills, financial literacy, and identity development that help players navigate life on and off the field

  • Mental Fitness - Proactive mental health care, stigma-free support access, and comprehensive wellbeing frameworks

  • Career Development - Education pathways, career planning, and transition support at every career stage

  • NRLW-Specific Support - Gender-responsive services addressing the unique context of women athletes and semi-professional competition

HOW WE WORK

System-Wide Collaboration

League Ahead serves as both direct service provider and system builder. We achieve impact through:

  • Partnership with Club WEMs: Supporting Wellbeing & Education Managers embedded at each club with frameworks, resources and professional development

  • Evidence-Based Practice: Co-designed programs informed by player voice, research and international best practice

  • Stakeholder Alignment:  Creating connections across clubs, NRL, RLPA and service providers

  • Quality Standards: Establishing consistent excellence while allowing club-specific flexibility

  • Innovation Leadership: Pioneering approaches that position rugby league as the global leader in athlete wellbeing.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY

League Ahead would like to acknowledge the traditional custodians of the lands across Australia and also the many Aboriginal Nations the game represents, where our clubs are located and where our players come from. We also wish to pay our respects to elders past, present and emerging.