BCITO x Crusaders: Building Pathways Beyond Rugby

When the Crusaders and BCITO formalised their partnership in early 2026, the vision was simple: help young athletes build successful futures both on and off the field. The result has been a partnership that goes far beyond sponsorship signage and brand association, creating meaningful pathways that connect rugby, education, employment and personal development.

At the heart of the partnership is the Crusaders Academy Apprentice Programme, an initiative designed to provide Academy athletes with real-world work experience, trade training opportunities and financial support while they pursue their rugby ambitions. Through the programme, players are connected with industry-leading businesses and practical workplace experiences that prepare them for life beyond rugby.

A key pillar of the programme has been the introduction of BCITO Scholarships. In 2026, Crusaders squad member Maloni Kunawave and Academy players Finn McLeod and Charlie Sullivan became the inaugural scholarship recipients, receiving support to pursue trade training alongside their rugby careers.

Crusaders Personal Development Manager Jonelle Quane says the programme reflects the club's commitment to developing the whole person.

"Our responsibility is not just to develop great rugby players but great people. BCITO has been a fantastic partner in helping us provide meaningful opportunities that give our athletes practical skills, real-world experience and confidence about their future beyond rugby."

Over the course of the season, the partnership has evolved from scholarships into genuine industry engagement. BCITO has worked closely with the Crusaders to connect players with employment pathways and hands-on learning opportunities across the construction sector, helping turn classroom learning into practical workplace experience.

One of the strongest examples of this came with the recent BCITO scholarship recipient video, which showcased the stories of Kunawave, McLeod and Sullivan. Filmed on-site with the support of Crusaders partner Golden Homes, the project provided a direct connection between rugby and industry. Golden Homes Director Dean McGuigan generously supported the production, helping bring to life the real employment opportunities available to young athletes pursuing trade careers.

BCITO General Manager of Marketing and Growth Paddy Kymbrekos says the partnership demonstrates what is possible when education, industry and sport work together.

"The Academy Apprentice Programme creates a powerful link between education, employment and high-performance sport. These young men are developing trade skills, gaining practical experience and building long-term careers while continuing to chase their rugby dreams."

For the Crusaders, BCITO's support is helping create a stronger player pathway. For BCITO, it is helping showcase the value of trade careers to a new generation. For scholarship recipients like Maloni, Finn and Charlie, it is proof that success is not about having one pathway, but having the confidence and support to pursue both.

Together, the Crusaders and BCITO are building more than rugby players. They're building futures