In a world where the power of sport transcends borders, the Life After Rugby & Sports (LARS) program is setting a bold precedent—transforming athletes into future-ready professionals. Initiated by AVM Group in collaboration with government, community, and industry partners, LARS is more than just a transition program for former and aspiring athletes; it is a social transformation engine that speaks directly to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

By equipping young men and women with vocational skills, life coaching, and industry-based certifications, the LARS program is uniquely positioned to address several SDG targets simultaneously. Below, we explore how LARS directly contributes to global development objectives:

1. SDG 4 – Quality Education

“Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all.”

LARS provides structured vocational training across sectors such as hospitality, health care, trades, and business, based on the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF). Participants who may have discontinued formal education due to athletic commitments are now re-integrated into a lifelong learning pathway. The inclusion of professional English training further enhances accessibility and success rates, especially in international work environments.

2. SDG 8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth

“Promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all.”

By re-skilling athletes and preparing them for employment in high-demand sectors such as aged care, tourism, and logistics, LARS supports productive employment and sustainable livelihoods. The program includes work-based training (WBT), internships, and job placement services—bridging the gap between training and real-world economic participation.

3. SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-being

“Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages.”

Athletes transitioning out of competitive sport often experience identity crises, mental health issues, or physical decline. LARS embeds mental health support, career coaching, and wellness sessions as part of its core framework, ensuring that holistic well-being is prioritised alongside vocational upskilling.

4. SDG 5 – Gender Equality

“Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls.”

LARS actively promotes the inclusion of women in sports and vocational training. Female athletes and referees are encouraged to participate, and dedicated scholarships or sponsorships are often directed towards empowering women, especially in male-dominated sports like rugby. This aligns with national and global calls for equity in both sport and economic participation.

5. SDG 10 – Reduced Inequalities

“Reduce inequality within and among countries.”

Many LARS participants come from rural, underprivileged, or minority backgrounds. By offering subsidised training, financial aid, and support services, the program levels the playing field—literally and metaphorically—offering high-quality vocational education to those historically left behind.

6. SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals

“Strengthen the means of implementation and revitalise the global partnership for sustainable development.”

LARS is built on a strong foundation of collaboration—between national sports federations (e.g., Fiji Rugby Union), government ministries, vocational education providers (e.g., AVM), local councils, and international training organisations. This multi-stakeholder approach exemplifies the spirit of SDG 17 by leveraging shared goals to achieve systemic impact.

A Blueprint for Replication

LARS is not confined to the Pacific or to rugby—it is a scalable, adaptable model with relevance to athletes and sports professionals globally. Whether in cricket-dominated South Asia, football-focused Africa, or Olympic training centres in the Americas, LARS can be replicated to empower a new generation of resilient, job-ready citizens.

Conclusion: LARS as a Sustainable Human Capital Engine

The Life After Rugby & Sports (LARS) program proves that vocational training and sports development need not be mutually exclusive. Instead, they can be harnessed together to address global priorities—education, employment, health, equity, and economic growth. In aligning itself with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, LARS is not only changing lives—it’s building sustainable futures.