What is your Rugby CV?
A rugby CV gives an overview of yourself as a rugby athlete. Essentially the CV can be seen as a “business card” as a rugby player that you can provide to prospective teams. The most crucial purpose of the CV is to promote yourself. Your rugby CV can give teams a quick overview of who you are as a rugby player. Further, it can include essential information, such as links to film and ways to get in contact. In the world of professional rugby, the CV is a global baseline standard. No matter what league or level you want to play at, it is very likely, if not sure, that a team will ask for a CV. Having a well-drafted CV sets your standard as a professional and further gives teams a better understanding of who you are as a player.
How do you draft a Rugby CV?
It is suggested that you follow a 3-section format. This format is quick and easy to understand as a viewer of the CV and gives you, the player, a solid platform to relay information.
Section 1
Section one is all about telling teams who you are. This is where you will put your name, position, height, weight, and other demographic information. One part of the central part of section one is your photo. This allows you to give a face to your name, keep that in mind when you think about what to choose as your image. It would help if you used a professional headshot or an idea that only has you as a player. If you choose an action shot, ensure it is focused on yourself and not cluttered with others. Remember that this is what teams will use to identify you; if you are not the focus of the picture, or there are others in the frame that can detract from you as an individual.
Passport information should also be added to this section. With rugby being an international game, it is essential that teams know what country issued your passport. This can help teams prepare for things such as obtaining a work visa if necessary and determine your ability to be capped as an International.
The last part of section one is for you to describe yourself as a player. Highlight your strengths as an athlete. Teams will probably scrutinize these things when watching your film, so do not lie about these strengths.
Section 2
Section two transitions where section one ends. Section two is your statement. Your statement is your chance to show your strengths, highlight your achievements, and even share your career aspirations. This section is not a biography; brevity is critical, as you want to give plenty of information that can be easily digested in a condensed form. This section is an excellent place to show who you are as a professional and what you have to offer in your experiences and ambitions.
Section 3
The final section, section three, gives a holistic view of your rugby career. This section will summarize the teams you have played for and what years. And then also links to film. When adding any links to the film, ensure no restriction on opening the link. It is recommended that you put and identify your highlight tape and two complete games worth of film. In your highlights, make sure you highlight yourself conspicuously. For your two-game films, it is suggested that you give identifying characteristics, i.e., #4 red, wearing a black scrum cap.
A rugby CV is a vital piece to getting recognized as an athlete. Done well, it can make you stand out amongst a crowd. Take some time to improve yours, and keep updating your information. A CV is arguably one of the most important ways to market yourself; following these guidelines can help you create a solid foundation.
To start building a CV using the Collegiate Rugby Shield template, follow this link: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1fKaeInXWFyyYdj-ww2DEHmXqb2Rs_yjqypWsgKEyBOc/edit?usp=sharing
