This survey focusing on rugby union was conducted during the latter half of 2020. Unlike its predecessor, which was limited to Britain and Ireland, this survey broadened its horizons to encompass practitioners from Australia and New Zealand. This expansion was intentional, aiming to facilitate a comprehensive cross-country comparison, thereby providing a more global perspective on the issues at hand. It’s crucial to note that the objective behind these surveys isn’t to castigate or criticize the industry. Instead, they are designed to foster informed, objective discussions, especially concerning the often-debated topic of remuneration in sports performance.
While the British football survey raised eyebrows with its revelation that 57% of its respondents lacked professional accreditation, the rugby union survey paints a slightly brighter picture. Here, 46% of respondents have credentials from esteemed bodies like UKSCA, NSCA, ASCA, ESSA, or a combination thereof. This difference prompts questions about the emphasis on professional development and accreditation across different sports.
The rugby union survey, enriched by the contributions of 87 strength and conditioning coaches or sports scientists, offers a panoramic view of the industry’s landscape. Salaries, naturally, are a focal point. The average salary hovers around £44k ($85k), but several factors influence this figure. Senior roles and longer tenures in rugby are associated with higher remuneration. There are also discernible geographic disparities, with practitioners in England not only forming the majority of respondents but also commanding higher average salaries than their counterparts in other regions.
By illuminating these facets of the industry, the aspiration is to usher in greater transparency and, in turn, effect positive change. The ultimate goal is for this information to transcend the confines of industry insiders and reach the desks of decision-makers, catalyzing improvements in the welfare of rugby union practitioners across the globe.
For those intrigued by these insights, a summary version of the report is available for download. However, for a more in-depth exploration of the data and a comprehensive understanding, subscribe to Sportsmith Premium to access the full version.