10 October 2006
University takes classroom to the Chiefs
The University of Waikato has taken the classroom ‘out on the road’ in an initiative to give the Chiefs rugby players a
career pathway once their professional playing days are over.
The Super 14 franchise players have signed up with the University for a certificate in management, which is being taught
in weekly three-hour sessions at the Waikato Stadium.
University of Waikato Vice-Chancellor Professor Roy Crawford says the collaboration with the Chiefs is a high profile
example of how the university is taking a flexible approach to the provision of education.
“Our primary goal is to educate people, and with the Chiefs we’re working with individuals and organising a programme
that suits their lifestyles rather than expecting them to fit in with us.”
Chiefs Captain Steven Bates says what they do after rugby is a genuine concern for a lot of players. So he’s pleased the
Chiefs management has taken the step to assist players for when their careers move into a new phase.
Greg Smith, the Chiefs professional development manager, is a fan of tertiary education, and hopes the initiative will
give the players confidence to go on to further university study.
“These guys acquire considerable skills as rugby players – they learn to analyse, strategise, develop human resource
skills and become proficient communicators. It’s a natural step to take all those skills and transplant them into a
business environment.”
The Chiefs players are currently tackling the first of eight papers, Introduction to Management. Other papers from
management, law and sport will be offered over a two year period.
ENDS