The Chris Burger Petro Jackson Players’ Fund is the pillar of support for seriously injured rugby players since 1980.
"The heart of the Players’ Fund is that it is not just about providing financial assistance which is very important, but, more importantly, it’s about being there and offering support so that injured players and their families don’t feel like they’re alone"
When a South African rugby player sustains a life changing injury to the head,
neck or spine, we partner the player and their family on the journey of
adapting to a “new normal”. A team approach is essential and we hold their
ongoing care and quality of life as our top priority.
With over 78 recipients in South Africa, we work hard to uplift and encourage our recipients to focus on their abilities rather than their disabilities, as they reintegrate themselves back into their families and communities.
Values
To be an internationally recognised organisation that supports the recovery of all seriously injured rugby players across South Africa, whilst promoting safer rugby.
When a serious rugby injury changes a life, we step in offering help and hope. Every aspect of the injured player’s welfare is our concern.
We are open an honest about the work that we do and our processes.
Our recipients and the rugby community can count on us to remain at their side.
If you entrust your support and funds to us, we are
accountable for all the resources we apply to achieve a better quality of life for our recipients.
We have stood firm in our work and approach since 1980.
Help is only a phone call away.
+27 (0)71 683 1021
To ensure that every catastrophically injured rugby player has access to the essential resources required for a dignified and independent life. The Fund provides financial assistance for mobility equipment, secondary rehabilitation, specialised medical care, assisted living, and home modifications. Given that most players and their families cannot afford these extensive costs—even those with partial insurance cover—the Fund bridges the gap, enabling recipients to access life-changing equipment and care that would otherwise remain out of reach.
To prioritise the overall well-being of injured players and their families by offering psychosocial support, counselling, and a consistent presence during their journey of adjustment. Recognising that catastrophic injury impacts both body and mind, the Fund provides guidance and emotional support that is as critical as physical care. A means test ensures that assistance is allocated equitably, tailored to each recipient’s circumstances, and directed where it will have the greatest impact.
To restore dignity and independence by creating pathways to sustainable livelihoods. Through a partnership with Taking Care of Business, recipients are given access to entrepreneurial and financial training, as well as technical skills development in areas such as appliance and cellphone repairs. The objective is to equip injured players with the tools and confidence to establish their own businesses, empowering them to generate income and contribute meaningfully within their communities.
To reduce the incidence of catastrophic rugby injuries through proactive engagement with rugby stakeholders and the public. By working alongside SA Rugby and BokSmart, the Fund promotes safer playing environments through improved regulations, education, and awareness campaigns. The Fund also amplifies the voices of injured players, sharing their personal stories to highlight the life-changing consequences of on-field injuries and to champion a culture of responsibility and care within the sport.
"With the support of my family and the Fund, I realised that it’s not the end of the world. It’s just a new world"
View our Organogram to find out who is involved in the Fund and in what capacity
