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Rob Kearney 1 of 2 players appointed to World Rugby's executive board
By Ian Cameron
Former international players Rob Kearney and Melodie Robinson have been appointed to the World Rugby Executive Board, marking the first time that players will have representation at the highest level of the sport’s governance. The historic decision was made at a World Rugby Council meeting in Dublin on Thursday, following a nomination process conducted by International Rugby Players.
Kearney, capped 95 times for Ireland, enjoyed a distinguished playing career that included two Grand Slams and four Six Nations Championships, along with four European Cup titles with Leinster. He also toured twice with the British and Irish Lions. Off the field, Kearney has held several directorships and previously served as Chairman of Rugby Players Ireland.
Melodie Robinson, who represented New Zealand in both 15s and Sevens, won two Rugby World Cups before transitioning to a successful broadcasting career. An advocate for the women’s game, Robinson is currently Head of Sports, Events and Partnerships at TVNZ and is also a board member of World Rugby’s EventsCo.
The appointments of Kearney and Robinson to the Executive Board are expected to bring player perspectives directly into World Rugby’s decision-making processes, reflecting a broader commitment to engage players in the sport’s governance.
“It’s a massive honour for me to represent professional rugby players on the World Rugby Executive Board,” said Rob Kearney.
“I’m acutely aware of the responsibilities associated with this role and I’m ready to work hard to make sure the collective voice of players is heard and that players are part of the global decision-making process in our sport. The team at International Rugby Players has worked incredibly hard to get us to this point and now we must take player representation to the next level.”
Melodie Robinson said: “I’m honoured to take my seat on the World Rugby Executive board. This is a big day for me personally but it’s a huge milestone for the game. For a long time, our player associations have lobbied to have their voices heard at the top table and so myself and Rob will work hard to make sure that we make the most of this opportunity.”
“I also intend to ensure that the women’s game is prioritised and ensure quality player representation at the highest level,” she added.
Rob Kearney and Melodie Robinson take their positions on World Rugby Executive Board with immediate effect.
International Rugby Players CEO, Omar Hassanein said: “Today is a great day for our organisation and the player movement. It’s been a long time coming and so it’s great to see Rob and Mel take their seats on the Executive Board today. I must commend World Rugby for taking this step and look forward to working with the new World Rugby Chairman and the board in the years ahead.”
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Latest Comments
Don't think you've watched enough. I'll take him over anything I's seen so far. But let's see how the future pans out. I'm quietly confident we have a row of 10's lined uo who would each start in many really good teams.
Go to commentsHopefully Joe stays where he is. That would mean Les, McKellar, larkham and Cron should as well. It’s the stability we need in the state programs. But, if Joe goes, RA with its current financial situation will be forced into promoting from within. And this will likely destabilise other areas.
To better understand some of the entrenched bitterness of those outside of NZ and NSW (as an example 😂), Nic, there is probably a comparison to the old hard heads of welsh rugby who are still stuck in the 1970s. Before the days where clubs merged, professionalism started, and the many sharp knives were put into the backs of those who loved the game more than everyone else. I’m sure you know a few... But given your comparison of rugby in both wales and Australia, there are a few north of the tweed that will never trust a kiwi or NSWelshman because of historical events and issues over the history of the game. It is what it is. For some, time does not heal all wounds. And it is still festering away in some people. Happy holidays to you. All the best in 2025.
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