Client: RugbyWA & Western Force
Consultant: Steven J. Anderson – Independent Consultant, High-Performance Leadership & Sport Strategy
Scope: Community Game Health Review | System Alignment | Strategic Framework Development
Duration: 12-Month Project

Background
Faced with declining engagement and fractured development systems, RugbyWA and the Western Force initiated a full-scale strategic review of the community rugby ecosystem in Western Australia. The purpose: to understand the structural and cultural challenges affecting participation, performance, and pathway progression across schools, clubs, and professional links. Steven J. Anderson was appointed to lead the research, engagement, and strategic planning process across all levels of the game.

Methodology
The 12-month project followed a “whole-of-game” consultative model, integrating data from:

• Stakeholder interviews (clubs, coaches, players, administrators, schools)
• Online surveys targeting both metro and regional WA
• Workshops and roundtable discussions
• Historical analysis of RugbyWA/Force alignment, club health, and governance structures

Over 25 formal meetings were held across zones, supported by regional visits to ensure representative input. The process produced rich, candid insights into the disconnection between strategic intent and delivery across the community, elite, and development sectors.

Key Findings

• Fragmented Structures: Limited cohesion between school, club, and elite programs led to duplication and confusion in player pathways.
• Lack of Systemic Alignment: Talent identification, coach development, and governance systems were operating in silos.
• Cultural Disengagement: Disparity between the Western Force’s professional aspirations and community game culture had eroded trust.
• Declining Participation: Junior numbers were under pressure, with inconsistent program delivery and minimal outreach into schools.

Strategic Recommendations
The report proposed a staged rebuild and reintegration strategy, including:

• A co-created Vision and Purpose shared across RugbyWA and the Western Force
• A system alignment framework tying together talent ID, coaching, development, and high-performance
• Reinvestment in coach and educator training, embedding performance and participation outcomes
• Introduction of governance principles that support collaboration, transparency, and long-term planning
• Clear pathway models from grassroots to elite levels, with regional and metro adaptations

Outcome
The project delivered a practical, field-tested roadmap for RugbyWA and the Western Force to unify the game and reignite participation. The report emphasized long-range planning, shared leadership, and community ownership as pillars of future success. It has since served as a foundational guide for renewed investment, program reform, and high-performance alignment within Western Australia rugby.