Photo: Bristol Bears Rugby
Bristol Bears` Max Lahiff has been elected to lead the Rugby Players` Association (RPA) Men`s Rugby Council. Joining him as Vice-Chairman is Saracens scrum-half Ivan van Zyl.
This significant appointment follows a structural overhaul within the RPA. In June, a vote among players led to the establishment of distinct councils for men`s and women`s rugby. The primary objective of these reforms is to ensure more targeted and effective player representation, as well as enhanced support for their well-being, acknowledging the unique demands and opportunities present in each discipline.
Lahiff, a prominent figure for Bristol since 2019 with over 100 appearances for the club, steps into this leadership role succeeding Ruaraidh McConnochie, who recently retired from professional rugby. Van Zyl, a key player for Saracens and a 2023 English Premiership champion, has actively contributed to RPA representation matters since 2023.
The newly formed council also welcomes other notable members from the Premiership. These include Bath captain Ben Spencer, Leicester Tigers prop Joe Heyes, Exeter Chiefs player Richard Capstick, and Gloucester representative Lewis Ludlow.
