Canadian Players Association joins IRPA

International Rugby Players Association (IRPA) is delighted to announce that the Canadian Rugby Players Association (CRPA) has joined the global players body as an associate member.

The Canadian Players formed their association 6 years ago and joined the global players movement after being voted in by the 12 other member associations.

Confirming the announcement, IRPA chief executive Omar Hassanein said “We’re delighted to finally welcome Canada to the group. They have put in extensive work to make sure that they meet all the necessary requirements and it will ensure that Canadian players will have the opportunity to learn from the other associations, incorporate best practices to improve conditions for their players and have a voice on the global stage.”

CRPA Co-Chair Ben LeSage said: “We’re delighted to join IRPA and unite our players with the best in the world. This will open all sorts of possibilities for our membersand we’ll benefit greatly from the opportunity to be part of the global collective and work with more established associations.” 

Canadian women’s captain Sophie de Goede said: “In order to improve, players need to unite and we’re really excited to learn more from our counterparts in the player associations around the world.”