Athletes Master Multiple Rugby Codes

Male and female athletes are demonstrating remarkable versatility, frequently switching between rugby sevens, union, and league. This "code agnostic" approach allows players to leverage their skills across different formats and competitions, similar to the multi-franchise model seen in cricket.

Many women, including Australian sevens captain Madison Ashby and England's Ellie Kildunne, have excelled in multiple rugby codes. This adaptability is facilitated by growing opportunities in leagues like the expanded NRLW, which targets talent from union and sevens.

Players are now able to capitalize on their abilities by competing in different codes sequentially, such as playing league in the NRLW, then sevens, and subsequently union for a World Cup. This strategy allows them to maximize their earnings and experience.

While leagues like the NRLW offer 12-month contracts, providing crucial stability, this can potentially limit opportunities for players who wish to develop their skills across multiple codes. The decision for athletes often balances financial security with broader sporting development.

In men's rugby, code switching is also prevalent, with players moving between league and union, often influenced by major tournaments like the Rugby World Cup. This adaptability is driven by a desire to seize opportunities across different formats of the game.

Younger players today are unburdened by historical sporting divisions, allowing them to pursue whichever code offers the best opportunities. This proactive approach, coupled with elite sporting prowess, defines the modern multi-code athlete.