NSW Rugby confirmed that GM of Professional Rugby and Elite Pathways, Tim Rapp, will be departing next month after serving eight years with the organisation.
Heading up the Rugby department, Rapp has overseen a tremendous amount of change and growth for the sport including the development of the NSW Pathways programs through the Academy.
While he has served as a key member of the NSW Rugby high performance division for the last eight years, his journey with the Waratahs started during his playing days before he transitioned as an administrator and coach.
NSW Rugby CEO Paul Doorn said: “Tim has given so much to NSW Rugby over so many years, with a keen passion for growing rugby across our State.
“His loss will certainly be felt throughout the organisation, but he leaves behind a fantastic framework which he has established designed to identify and foster NSW rugby talent through our pathways programs.
“Tim leaves behind a strong legacy, himself a product of NSW rugby starting out as a player from regional NSW representing Country Rugby Union and then the Waratahs before moving into a coaching role and then heading up our high performance department.
“While we are disappointed to lose Tim, he has put in place a strong roster and system for the season ahead to ensure our Waratahs support team and Academy team can thrive.
“He has an exciting new opportunity ahead of him and we wish him all the very best. We know this won’t be the last time we see Tim around the rugby grounds,” he said.
For Rapp, it is a bittersweet moment as he prepares to farewell an organisation that he has been part of long before he started working there.
“It’s hard to pick just one highlight over the last eight years, but certainly a few would be being part of the amazing 2014 Super Rugby win, watching our Academy grow and seeing the great local NSW talent come through, and being there to witness the launch of the Super W (Women’s) competition and seeing our women dominate.
“I have had the privilege of working with so many great coaches but also players, who always bring such a passion for rugby in our State to everything they do.
“Me, like so many people, are excited to see a new era come through the Waratahs ranks. I’ve seen these guys over the years doing great things for their schools and their Clubs and I’m excited to see them take this next step in their rugby journey.
“I want to thank all those I’ve had the privilege of working with over the years, from the Club Rugby and NRC coaches through to schools as well as the team Rugby Australia. I must also thank all the men and women at NSW Waratahs, players and coaches, who made this job so enjoyable.
“As a player for NSW I never dreamed of doing this role one day, but I feel very privileged to have had the opportunity,” he said.
The position of GM Professional Rugby and Elite Pathways will be advertised in coming the days.
