Rugby Players Association announce milestone 'Fixed Academy Wage' for England's rookie stars
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The Rugby Players Association (RPA) and Premiership Rugby have announced a significant development in financial security for young players, with the introduction of a Fixed Academy Wage for full-time Premiership club rookies. This initiative, approved by the Professional Rugby Board (PRB), will take effect from the 2025/26 season and aims to provide young players with financial stability as they embark on their professional careers.
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Under the new system, academy players will receive fixed wages for their first two years in the professional setup:
- Rookie 1 (Under 19): £18,200* per year
- Rookie 2 (Under 20): £20,200* per year
This move is designed to offer young players a fair and consistent wage, allowing them to focus on their on-field performance without financial uncertainty. The initiative aligns with the RPA's broader mission to ensure English players receive the best possible support throughout their careers.
A Landmark Moment for Academy Players
Former Gloucester player and RPA Vice Chair, Harry Elrington, praised the decision, emphasizing its importance for young players coming through the ranks:
“The introduction of a new Premiership Rookie Fixed Academy Wage marks a pivotal moment for young players entering the game. These will have a positive impact throughout the league with the reassurance that all full-time players progressing through the academy system will receive a level of pay that allows them to focus on their rugby and development.”
RPA General Secretary Christian Day echoed these sentiments, highlighting the collaborative effort behind the initiative:
"We are delighted to complete this vital piece of work in collaboration with Premiership Rugby. One of the key targets for the RPA in becoming signatories to the Professional Game Partnership was to ensure that all full-time young players had the opportunity to perform at their best on the field of play by receiving the security of a fair baseline of financial income off it. The introduction of these Rookie wages alongside the advancement of other contractual regulations will help ensure that young players in England have the best opportunity possible to reach their potential."
The Bigger Picture
The implementation of fixed academy wages is expected to have a positive impact across Premiership Rugby, creating a more stable and supportive environment for young talent. While clubs will have the ability to offer higher wages once a player has played in eight Premiership or European matches, the baseline earnings will ensure that no player is left without financial security in their crucial developmental years.
This move represents a major step forward in English rugby's efforts to nurture young talent and provide them with the stability needed to focus entirely on their growth and performance on the field.
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