More than the game: The Crusaders Academy philosophy of developing good humans first

There’s a growing conversation around the pressures young athletes face in professional sport and whether the systems designed to support them are truly setting them up for life.  

At the Crusaders Academy, that conversation isn’t new. It’s something we’ve been actively addressing for years. 

“We’re not here to produce rugby robots. We’re here to grow good humans who happen to be talented athletes,” says Crusaders Academy Manager Paul Galland. 

Galland leads a programme built on the belief that rugby is just one part of a young man’s journey.  

“All our Academy members are either studying or working,” he says.  

“We’ve got systems in place with mental skills, nutrition, leadership, and personal development managers – just to make sure they’re setting themselves up for whatever life throws at them.” 

That wraparound support is central to the Academy’s philosophy. It’s not just about preparing young men for a professional contract; it’s about preparing them for life. 

“Not every young man who comes into these programmes becomes a professional player, but there are some great young men who come out and do extraordinary things. That’s a win for us.” 

While the pathway to professional rugby is competitive, Galland is proud of the success rate.  

“Nine out of ten that come into our Crusaders Academy pick up a professional contract of some form. But they’ve also got that life outside of the sport, and we help them become better sons, brothers, mates or leaders.” 

Each player has an individual performance plan, regular one-on-one catchups, and access to experts in mental skills and nutrition.  

“We help them write their own notes; what are the things they want to achieve, and how do they want to achieve it? Then we help with who can support them and how they’re going to go about it.”  

Galland is also passionate about helping players understand their identity beyond the game.  

“We always talk about life after rugby. There’s life outside of rugby and we have to make sure that’s a massive part of who they are.” 

That message is reinforced through open conversations and vulnerability; something Galland believes this generation is ready for.  

“We've had awesome sessions with young men talking about stuff they probably haven’t talked about with their parents. It was one of the best circles I’ve ever sat in. If we can be vulnerable and have open and honest conversations, our hope is that we've set an example, and these young men feel they can do the same.” 

The Academy’s culture is built on trust and care.  

“If we can build their trust and actually care for them well, then they’re going to go a long way. Being a good person is number one, being a good rugby player is number two.” 

In a world where young athletes are often defined by their performance, the Crusaders Academy is redefining success.  

It’s not just about what happens inside the white lines – it’s about who these players are outside of them.