FORMER Warriors flanker Jake Abbott has called time on his elite rugby career to become a player development manager with the Rugby Players’ Association.
The Worcester born-and-bred star, who joined Warriors’ mini junior set-up at six-years-old and went onto make 72 appearances and score 16 tries for the club, will start his new role with the effective trade union for Premiership and Championship rugby on Monday (June 20).
The former Worcester Sixth Form College student’s job will involve working with Newcastle Falcons’ and Yorkshire Carnegie’s academy and with the 800 plus members of the Alumni North, helping them support player welfare both on and off the field.
He will also work closely with current players to guide their personal and professional development, whether it’s teaching gambling awareness, providing mental support or helping them get a degree or work experience.
“I’m excited about starting a new career as a player development manager.
When I saw the vacancy I jumped at it as it’s the perfect role for me,” said the 28-year-old.
“During my career with Warriors I was a ‘Player Representative’ for three seasons, which saw me work closely with the Rugby Players’ Association’s player development managers.
“I remember one year I helped organise a cooking course for players who didn’t have any basic cooking skills. That’s what my new role is all about and it’s something I feel very passionate towards. I care a lot about the sport and the welfare of its players.
“Rugby like most sports doesn’t provide a long career, so my job is to make the transition from playing to early retirement as easy as possible,” he added.
After breaking into the first team in 2008 and becoming a regular at Sixways, Abbott’s career became blighted by injuries and he was ruled out for the majority of the 2013/14 Aviva Premiership campaign with anterior cruciate ligament damage.
With opportunities limited at the club, Abbott moved to America in 2014 on a three-year deal with Griffins Rugby in Dallas, Texas.
“The career move to the USA came at the right time. The brutal truth of the game is it’s such a fine line. When I suffered my second major knee injury I had to look at my options,” he added.
“It was an amazing adventure with Griffins Rugby and since joining as the first professional overseas player, I’ve seen huge strides of progression in the game. I think the USA Eagles will turn a few heads in this summer’s Olympic Sevens.”
Abbott also revealed his is still an avid supporter of his hometown club and believes they could push for a mid-table finish next season.
“My heart will always be with Warriors. I was a ball boy and supporter before I was a player at Sixways,” he added.
“Despite not starting well in the last campaign I think we had a fantastic ending.
“Dean Ryan is doing something right and I hope the club continues its upward trajectory next season.
“I think with the new players coming in we can challenge some of the bigger clubs above us,” he added.