Major League Rugby Deepens Commitment to Player Mental Health with Onrise and LooseHeadz
Major League Rugby (MLR) is reinforcing its dedication to the well-being of its players, coaches, and referees through continued partnerships with Onrise, the league’s Official Mental Health Provider, and LooseHeadz, the Official Mental Fitness Partner. These initiatives aim to destigmatize mental health challenges within the sport and provide comprehensive support resources.
Expanding Mental Health Resources
The partnership with Onrise, initially established in 2024, has been extended through the 2026 season . This collaboration ensures all MLR personnel have access to a wide range of mental health services, including one-on-one sessions with Athlete Peer Support Specialists, licensed therapists, psychiatric care, and a 24/7/365 crisis line . The extension stems from the league’s first collective bargaining agreement with the United States Rugby Players Association (USRPA), which formally recognizes mental health care as a core component of player support .
LooseHeadz: Building a Culture of Mental Fitness
Since 2022, MLR has partnered with LooseHeadz, an organization focused on placing mental health leads – known as “LooseHeads” – at rugby clubs worldwide and equipping them with resources to support player mental fitness . During the 2025 season, LooseHeadz and Onrise will collaborate to further enhance these efforts . Eight LooseHeadz Ambassadors, including MLR staff, referees, and players, are actively working to #TackleTheStigma and foster a more supportive community both on and off the field.
Ambassadors Leading the Charge
The following individuals are serving as LooseHeadz Ambassadors:
| Name | Team | Player/Referee |
| Campbell Robb | Anthem RC | Player |
| Chase Jones | California Legion | Player |
| Brock Webster | Chicago Hounds | Player |
| Paul Mullen | Classic Glory DC | Player |
| Mitch Wilson | New England Free Jacks | Player |
| Michael Hand | Seattle Seawolves | Player |
| Federico “Boli” Anselmi | MLR | Referee |
| Will Hooley | MLR | League |
MLR Wellness Initiative
MLR launched the MLR Wellness initiative in October, extending its mental health offerings to both players and fans . This initiative complements the ongoing work with LooseHeadz and Onrise, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to mental health within the league.
“Mental fitness is just as important as physical fitness in the sport of rugby,” said MLR Chief Operating Officer Graeme Bradbury . “The mental health of our players, coaches and officials is paramount to our league’s success.”
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