About Us
Standing by our rugby family beyond the field.
We provide practical and financial support to players and their whānau during life’s toughest moments.
Caring for the players who have cared for our game.
The Rugby Players’ Support Trust exists to support rugby players and their whānau facing hardship or exceptional circumstances.
Supporting rugby players and their families through life’s toughest moments.
The Rugby Players’ Support Trust was created by members of the Hurricanes Alumni to support rugby players and their families through life’s toughest moments.
Rugby gives people purpose, identity, and community, but when playing days end or when hardship strikes, many lose the structure and support they once relied on.
We step in when that happens. Our role is to provide practical and financial help when members of our rugby family are struggling.
Established by the Hurricanes Alumni Foundation Trust, we prioritise players and families connected to the Hurricanes team, but we are also here for others in the rugby community or their families who need genuine support.
WHO WE ARE
At its heart, the Trust is about people looking after people.
It is our way of standing by those who gave so much to the game.
WHAT WE DO
Helping players and whānau through their toughest moments.
We help when injury, illness, or sudden change affects a player or their family.
Support may include covering medical treatments, providing mobility or recovery equipment, or helping with essential living costs and family support during difficult times.
Every situation is different, so each application is reviewed with care, empathy, and complete confidentiality.
WHY IT MATTERS
Even the strongest players need support when life hits hard.
Behind every team and every jersey are real people who carry the highs and lows of the sport long after the final whistle.
Many players live with long-term injuries, sudden financial stress, or the emotional impact of stepping away from rugby.
Your support allows us to ease that pressure.
It brings comfort, dignity, and stability during moments when it is needed most.
What being a charitable trust means
As a registered charitable trust in New Zealand, we exist only for genuine community benefit.
For donors, this means your support is managed responsibly and used solely for charitable purposes. Being a charity also means we follow strict reporting and transparency standards, giving you confidence that your contribution is being handled with care. Most donations may qualify for tax credits, making it easier for supporters to give.
Every dollar is directed where it matters most - Straight to players and families who need help.
OUR TRUSTEES
A small team with one purpose; helping players and families when it matters most.
The trust is guided by trustees connected to the Hurricanes Alumni, along with independent professionals who bring experience, integrity, and a strong commitment to supporting our rugby community.
Mike Russell
Chair of Trustees, Hurricane #23
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With my wife Vicki we own a property development company, building new houses in the northern suburbs of Wellington. Over the last 27 years, we have built over 500 houses.
I played over 100 first-class games, representing Waikato, Wellington and the Hurricanes from 1996 – 1997 including playing in the first-ever professional rugby game in New Zealand, Hurricanes v Blues 1 March 1996.
After a conversation with Hurricanes coach Chris Boyd and Sir Paul Collins, the then Chairman of the Hurricanes, six years ago, I was instrumental in setting up the Hurricanes Alumni Foundation Trust.
I am passionate about ‘giving back’ to the game of rugby, especially to be able to support Hurricanes players and their families as they transition to a successful life after rugby.
Fafili Levave
Trustee, Hurricane #152
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I played 67 games for the Hurricanes from 2010 to 2014 and 17 for Samoa.
I am also a Board member of the Pacific Rugby Players Association. Passionate about life after rugby and transitioning, I encourage all players and families to have a Plan B, especially during these uncertain times.
Shannon Paku
Trustee, Hurricane #94
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I played the last of my Hurricanes matches in 2008 before spending 2 years playing in the South-West of France.
I eventually hung up my boots in 2010, taking on a dairy and meat franchise with Goodman Fielder.
After 8 years in the business, I then went on to be the CEO of the Manawatu Rugby Union for 3 years through to March 2021.
I am currently living the dream as a part-time pretend-builder and full-time self-titled ‘Household Administrator’ supporting my lovely wife and three kids.
Nick Crosswell
Trustee, Hurricane #159
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After a professional rugby career that took me to Wellington, Dunedin, Hamilton, and Wales, I was fortunate enough to finish up where it all began playing for the Manawatu Turbos.
I have now settled back in Palmerston North with my wife Hanna and our three young children. I am currently working as the Sales Manager for nationwide agri-business, Bell-Booth, and have hung up the footy boots for good.
It is a great privilege to be part of the Hurricanes Alumni Foundation Trust. Having recently faced the challenge of moving to a post-rugby career, I look forward to having the opportunity to use my experiences to assist and support others going through this same transition.
Conrad Smith
Trustee, Hurricane #110
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Joining the Club in 2004, I enjoyed 12 amazing seasons with the ’Canes, which left me with lifelong friends and the swirl very close to my heart.
After 5 years in France, I’m now back in New Plymouth, working remotely for International Rugby Players, based in Dublin.
After a long service with New Zealand Rugby Players Association, I’m still passionate about working with current and retired players both in the running of the game and supporting them as they transition into life after rugby.
I’m proud of what the Alumni has achieved to date, leading the country as a network that supports, connects and enhances the Hurricanes Club. The services provided will become more and more relevant in the years ahead and it is a pleasure to be involved.
Rachael Rakatāu
Trustee, Hurricane Poua #10
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I am currently in a unique and very privileged position joining the Hurricanes Alumni Foundation Trust while still in my playing career.
My current teams include the Hurricanes Poua, Manawatu Cyclones and Melbourne Rebels.
Outside of rugby, I am a wife, mum of two young children and an Associate at Allan McNeill Chartered Accountants in Palmerston North.
The transition out of rugby for players can be difficult, and for female players, it is an evolving space, with most female players not on full-time contracts yet. I am excited about the opportunity to help assist and support players’ transition to the next phase in their lives.
Grant McPherson
Independant Trustee
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Over the years as an avid sports participant and fan, I have seen the challenges that high performing athletes have as they move from their sporting environment to something quite different. The need for understanding and support is vital for these athletes and their families to transition into the next chapter of their lives.
To be able to be a part of the Hurricanes Alumni Foundation Trust, who is leading in this area, is a great privilege and I’m excited by the opportunities ahead to help Hurricanes players, partners, families, management and officials.
I am keen to utilise my international, commercial and educational experience and skills to support the Hurricanes Alumni.
Maddie Blackwell
Partner of former player
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In my professional role, I’m a strategy consultant specialising in creating impactful customer experiences.
Personally, I’m the wife of a former Hurricanes player of eight seasons.
These roles allow me to offer insights to the alumni foundation and help to deliver necessary services used by former Hurricanes players.
Ensuring a high-quality post-rugby life for alumni and their families is paramount to me.
If you need help
If you or someone you know has a connection to rugby and is facing injury, illness, or financial hardship, please reach out.
Every application is handled with care, respect, and complete confidentiality.
If you’d like to support our work
Your generosity helps us care for players and whānau when life gets tough.
Every donation makes a meaningful difference.
