Tuesday 28 October 2014 13:01, UK
Northampton Saints lock Christian Day has been appointed chairman of the Rugby Players’ Association, succeeding Gloucester’s Will James.
Aviva Premiership winner Day, who has served on the RPA Players’ Board as both a player representative and vice-chairman over the past three years, will assume the role immediately following lock James’ retirement.
Rugby in England has never had a higher profile and the issue of player welfare, safety and development remain fundamental to the purpose of the Rugby Players' Association and I look forward to working closely with Christian and Chris.
The RPA is one of the most respected player associations in sport, priding itself on player development, player welfare and player representation.
Day is honoured to have been elected as chairman of the RPA and believes there has never been a more exciting time to be involved in English rugby.
“It is with great pride I take upon the role of chairman of The Rugby Players’ Association," Day told Northampton Saints’ official website.
"Never has there been a more exciting time to be involved in English rugby with the game growing year on year and a World Cup on home soil soon to look forward to.
“Our members are lucky to be able to make a living from a game they love to play, yet the number of forced retirements continue to rise and most will need to find a career for their lives post rugby.
“That is why the work The RPA does is so important. To ensure the wellbeing of our members currently playing the game, whilst helping to prepare them for a successful career after rugby.”
Day will work closely with Wasps’ Chris Bell, who has been voted in as vice-chairman.
The Wasps’ centre said: “The RPA is a fantastic organisation and provide an invaluable service. I have been involved as a player representative for two years now and am looking forward to my new role as of vice chairman of the Players’ Board.
“I hope to add great value to the role and drive forward the already great work the RPA delivers.”
RPA chief executive, Damian Hopley, added: “Christian and Chris have been outstanding player representatives for the last few years and are excellent appointments to their respective roles in leading the RPA.
“Rugby in England has never had a higher profile and the issue of player welfare, safety and development remain fundamental to the purpose of the Rugby Players' Association and I look forward to working closely with Christian and Chris to deliver significant progress for our members in these areas in the year ahead."
