Second Half Rugby, the Welsh Rugby Players Association’s registered charity, has appointed a leading HR expert as a trustee.
The charity’s aim, since its inception in 2017, is to support professional rugby players in Wales through times of hardship, be it financial, medical, integral or mental health related.
Run by players for the players the charity allocates small grants to aid individuals through difficult situations.
Linda Bowles had, until recently, been the Group HR Director of The Jockey Club for 9 years. She also is a trustee for The Racing Foundation and is a founding member of the Diversity in Racing Steering Group.
Before joining The Jockey Club Linda held a variety of senior HR roles across different sectors, including working in the betting industry as Director of Human Resources for The Tote.
Career highlights also include leading the multiple award-winning HR team at law firm Wragge & Co as well as time spent at Henderson Group and Marks & Spencer.
Linda, from Penmaenmawr, North Wales, is a keen supporter of Welsh Rugby as well as having a lifelong passion for horseracing.
Linda Bowles, newly appointed Second Half Rugby trustee, said;
“The Welsh Rugby Players Association is responsible for the welfare and wellbeing of Wales’ professional rugby players. It’s a highly competitive environment and there are times where individuals require some additional support.
“Second Half Rugby was launched to do just that and I’m delighted to take up a role as one of the charity’s trustees.
“We’re all living through extraordinary challenging times at the moment with players having to adapt to a new way of life overnight. The charity exists to help individuals through hardship and I look forward to playing a part in helping players through tougher times.”
Barry Cawte, WRPA CEO, added;
“We are delighted to announce Linda’s appointment as a new trustee of Second Half Rugby charity.
“As a charity still very much in its infancy, we will benefit greatly from Linda’s extensive knowledge of human resources and the charity sector.
“Linda brings with her a wealth of HR experience, which will be invaluable to the charity’s work in helping professional rugby players in Wales who hit on hard times.”
Current WRPA members are supported by their Personal Development Managers and can apply for grant funding via the WRPA’s application process.