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RFL Youth Leadership Development Programme

Helping rangatahi grow confidence, leadership and life skills through rugby and community.

ABOUT THE PROGRAMME

Pathways for Life

Rugby For Life’s Youth Leadership Development Programme supports rangatahi to grow — as players, as learners, as leaders, and as future changemakers. Through rugby, young people access opportunities to build confidence, strengthen identity, and develop real-world life skills. 

Backed by clubs, mentors, and whānau, rangatahi gain more than sporting ability - they gain purpose, belief, and the foundations to thrive in their communities. 

Our kaupapa: strengthen youth, strengthen whānau, strengthen communities.  


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Why It Matters

Northland’s young people have enormous potential — but many face barriers such as lower educational achievement and limited access to positive pathways. Many rangatahi disengage from study or employment, and support can differ across communities. 

Rugby For Life creates safe spaces, trusted relationships and clear pathways that help rangatahi stay connected, build resilience, and explore what’s possible. Our community-led approach ensures every young person is supported in a way that reflects their culture, whenua, and local strengths.  


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How It Works

Rugby to Leadership

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A passionate Coordinator driving outcomes for your club.

LEADERSHIP

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From RFL’s regional team and access to helpful tools.

SUPPORT

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Build strong relationships between your club, community and wider networks.

CONNECTION

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Bring focus to the work your club does and raise its profile in the region.

VISIBILITY

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Play a key role in creating a safe, inclusive and thriving space for everyone.

COMMUNITY

Examples of Success

Youth engagement is rising across RFL clubs, many of which now offer warm, supportive before- and after-school spaces for study and connection. Leadership opportunities continue to grow through partnerships such as the Blues Charitable Trust and the R. Tucker Thompson sailing voyages, offering 20 placements annually.  

Education and career pathways are also expanding through the E, T&E Programme, giving rangatahi access to workshops, qualifications and employment opportunities. A new mentorship network is underway, pairing young people with experienced guides for one-on-one support. 

Together, these successes highlight how rugby clubs are becoming genuine community hubs, places where rangatahi can build confidence, skills and a powerful sense of belonging. 

CASE STUDY

RUAWAI JMB — A Journey of Connection, Character and Growth

The Ruawai U11s embarked on an unforgettable trans-Tasman tour, reconnecting with the Beecroft Barbarians for the first time in more than 40 years. Through months of fundraising, hard mahi, and community support, the team not only travelled to Australia, they grew in maturity, confidence and pride. 

From cultural exchanges and club hosting to game day experiences and shared activities, the trip strengthened friendships, broadened horizons and deepened the young players’ understanding of teamwork, culture and community. 


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Ready to Uplift the Next Generation?

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Your support helps create leaders, build confidence and strengthen communities across Northland.