News

Leading the Way with UCD Smurfit School

Rugby Players Ireland partners with UCD Smurfit School to advance leadership development through scholarships

UCD Smurfit School has announced a new partnership with Rugby Players Ireland to expand leadership development opportunities for players through two MBS scholarships. The initiative will welcome athletes into the classroom as students to gain access to business-world perspectives on teamwork, decision-making and leading under pressure, while sharing their own insights on leadership, performance and resilience.

“Rugby Players Ireland are delighted to partner with UCD Smurfit School as our exclusive MBA university partner in Dublin,” said Dr Deirdre Lyons, Director of Player Development & Welfare, Rugby Players Ireland, said.

“This collaboration provides our current and former players with a world-class pathway to develop their leadership skills and prepare for life and careers beyond the game. The Smurfit MBA is an excellent fit for the ambition and professionalism our players bring to their next chapter.”

“Great leadership can be developed both on the field and in the classroom,” said Professor Federica Pazzaglia, Director of UCD Smurfit School. “At UCD Smurfit School, we are proud to partner with Rugby Players Ireland to bring the experience of elite athletes into our learning environment.

“By combining our shared values of excellence, ambition, integrity and community, we aim to inspire our students and alumni to shape a better future for business and society in Ireland and internationally.”

The process of recruiting and selecting the successful candidates will be overseen by the UCD Smurfit School Admissions Team. You can read all scholarship details here and, if eligible, apply for the coming academic year.

Any queries from members of Rugby Players Ireland should be directed to Dr Deirdre Lyons, Director of Player Development & Welfare (deirdre@rugbyplayersireland.ie).

(L to R): Gráinne Finnegan (RPI PDM), Stacey Flood (RPI Member), Professor Anthony Brabazon (Dean of UCD College of Business), Scott Penny (RPI Member), Dr Deirdre Lyons (RPI Director of Player Development & Welfare) & Professor Federica Pazzaglia (Director of UCD Smurfit School).