When thinking and speaking about sport it is easy to overlook the vital roles that are carried out behind the scenes to enable players and coaches to perform to the best of their ability. Often, rugby administrators are former players as this gives them an added empathy with the game, but this is not necessary. 

The role of an administrator

Depending on the level, administrators handle all aspects of the game, from marketing and communication to finances, game regulations and event management. Each day might be different: one day could be spent behind a computer performing admin tasks, while the next might be spent at the local rugby club planning an event.

Getting started in rugby administration

Sports administrators require both technical and soft skills including communication skills, computer literacy, strong organisational skills and the ability to show leadership.

To get a job as an administrator, it is often necessary to earn a relevant qualification, for example a Sports Business degree or Masters. By doing this you gain the advanced knowledge and business understanding required to succeed in the role. For those looking to administrate in a certain area, for example sports medicine, again relevant experience and qualifications are often necessary. 

Case study: Ando Niaina Herimahefa (Madagascar)

A former basketball and handball player in her native Madagascar, Ando Niaina found rugby at university and decided to become a match official to compliment her job as a sports teacher.

In fewer than 10 years she has risen through the Madagascan rugby ranks. In 2020 she successfully applied for a World Rugby Women’s Executive Leadership Scholarship and one year later, as a 27-year-old, became Women's Rugby Manager for the Madagascan Rugby Federation.

On working as an administrator - Being an administrator is like being a film director. You work behind the scenes with the technical teams to make a show a success. On the management side, there is a major role in setting up the strategic plan and ensuring it is implemented with the technical team to ensure the development of women's rugby.

On the role's rewards - I take a lot of pleasure because it will lead to a great performance on and off the field which will attract fans and audiences. I am constantly developing my skills and expanding my network around the world with people who share the same passion as me.

It is a good career for girls and women in rugby, because in administration we are not obliged to perform well on the field, regardless of our body type and our physical capacity: the important thing is having passion for this sport. Even if you don't have the required skills at first, you begin with what you know and grow from there, strengthening in leadership and management.