As I watch the NRL evolve year after year, one thing stands out to me; the increasing number of players who openly express their Christian faith.
Whether it’s a prayer circle after a match or an Instagram post reflecting on their faith journey, players are finding ways to bring spirituality into the public realm of rugby league.
It has me thinking; is it time for teams to bring back club chaplains?
Not long ago, chaplains were a common sight in professional sports teams, including the NRL. Their role wasn’t just about leading prayers but providing a listening ear and guidance, especially during tough times.
Somewhere along the way, that role faded into the background, but I think it’s more relevant than ever.
When I consider the pressures athletes face—constant performance demands, media scrutiny, and the physical toll of the game—it’s clear that support systems are critical.
Clubs have done a great job investing in physical and psychological care, but what about having someone who can look beyond the here and now?
Just recently, Sydney Roosters captain James Tedesco spoke about the mental and physical toll of representative football. He described the importance of rest and family time in helping him recover, but I couldn’t help wondering how much more balanced the journey could be with dedicated spiritual care.
Club chaplains can provide the greatest benefit in this area.
What sets a chaplain apart from other professionals is their holistic approach to care. They see each player as more than just a performer—they see them as a beloved son or daughter of God, with inherent dignity and purpose.
They remind players that their worth isn’t tied to their last performance or their contract value, but to their identity as God’s children.
A chaplain simply sees the person behind the jersey, valuing their emotional, mental, and spiritual wellbeing as much as their physical health.
For players grappling with self-doubt, grief, or questions of identity, this reminder of their intrinsic worth can be transformative.
Chaplains, though rooted in faith, aren’t just for Christian players; they’re for everyone.
Their role is to listen without judgment, offer guidance in difficult times, and encourage players to see life from a broader perspective.
It’s a role that complements the care provided by sports psychologists and coaches, helping players reflect on their journey, process challenges, and prepare for life beyond the game.
A chaplain’s perspective can also be particularly valuable for players facing the often-daunting reality of life after rugby league. The transition out of the sport can leave players feeling lost, unsure of their purpose or identity.
By focusing on the eternal and reminding players of their inherent value beyond their athletic achievements, chaplains can help them find meaning and direction in the next chapter of their lives.
In a world increasingly focused on results and performance, chaplains offer a countercultural message; that every player is loved and valued simply for who they are.
Bringing them back to NRL clubs would fill a crucial gap, providing players with the support they need to thrive, not just as athletes, but as people.
As we witness the rise of faith in sport, from post-match prayers to players openly sharing their beliefs, now feels like the right time to act.
Club chaplains wouldn’t just benefit players who share their faith, they’d be a blessing to everyone, offering wisdom, compassion, and a reminder of the bigger picture (not to mention the souls they could bring to Christ).
Maybe it’s time NRL clubs gave them a jersey of their own.