In 2008 the Imminent Wealth Academy is introducing the Mortgage Choice/Imminent Wealth Academy Entrepreneurial Player Award. This Award is a culmination of the drive of Steve Menzies and the RLPA (Rugby League Players Association) Chief Executive, Matt Rodwell to acknowledge and reward current playing NRL players with recognition and financial support to create, develop and implement a business that will support them during and after their playing career.

The Entrepreneurial Player Award has been proudly supported by Mortgage Choice, whose own business ethics exemplifies the support and transition that is required whether in sport, business or investing.

“Over my years of playing I have played with legends of the game, and off the field they are still legends, yet many do not retire at a legend financial status.” Steve said

“This year being my last in the NRL I wanted to provide an award that would highlight the need to establish a financial and educational path during your playing days- hence the inaugural year for the award was created. As a football player we develop key skills over a 15 year period, as a junior player we are actually serving an apprenticeship; now imagine that after serving your apprenticeship and becoming the best you can be in your trade….that after 15 years you can no longer use those skills to earn money. Consider an Accountant, a Lawyer, a bricklayer or carpenter being told that after all that apprenticeship and skilling for the ‘rest of your’ life you cannot use the trade you are best at to earn money……..that is what a NRL player is faced with”

Managing Director Paul Lahiff said, “We recognise the need for NRL players to educate themselves for a satisfying and successful career after sport, as Paul Gallen is doing as a Mortgage Choice franchise owner with business partner and ex footballer Matthew McPherson. It is an honour for us to contribute to furthering the concept of sportspeople transitioning to a business career via this important and necessary award”

Imminent Wealth Academy and the RLPA are grateful for the sponsorship support from these sponsors. It is the support of these Companies and Individuals that has allowed this award to be to a value of $30,000 in financial and business service support. 

To download an application or to know more about this Award you may click here...Entrepreneur Award