Wallabies prop Tom Robertson signs Oxford University sabbatical contract

Wallabies prop Tom Robertson has signed a unique contract extension with Rugby Australia that features a rather different sporting sabbatical.

PERTH, AUSTRALIA - MAY 20: Tom Robertson of the Force gets tackled during the round 13 Super Rugby Pacific match between Western Force and ACT Brumbies at HBF Park, on May 20, 2023, in Perth, Australia. (Photo by James Worsfold/Getty Images)

It’s a rugby sabbatical, but not as you’d expect.

Instead of taking extra cash playing in Japan, Wallabies prop Tom Robertson has signed a unique contract extension with Rugby Australia that will allow him to take next year off to study at Oxford University.

The 28-year-old, who is currently rehabilitating an ACL injury suffered in round 13 of Super Rugby playing for Western Force, will head to England in 2024 after being awarded a John Monash Scholarship to undertake a Master of Public Policy at Oxford University‘s Blavatnik School of Government.

He already holds a Bachelor of Medical Science, Master of Public Health and a Master of Philosophy-Medicine.

Robertson, who can play both sides of the scrum, will return to the Force in 2025 and will push for selection for the Wallabies’ series against the British & Irish Lions.

“I would like to thank the Western Force and Rugby Australia for allowing me to have this sabbatical, it’s not every day people come together and allow you to miss half a year of rugby,” Roberston said.

Tom Robertson in action for the Wallabies. Picture: Getty Images

“It’s been a dream of mine to go to Oxford for a while now to study, it’s really exciting, and I am incredibly appreciative to the Monash Foundation and Dr Brett Robinson for helping fund this opportunity.

“I have shown throughout my career how much it means to me. It’s all about the experience, and I’m very grateful for the opportunity.

“At Oxford, I will start a Master of Public Policy at the Blavatnik School of Government. This is about how to try and get governments to give the medical system more money, especially where I’m from in Dubbo.

“From a rugby perspective, I think studying has helped my career, as having something off-field has been really helpful and important to me.

“Having something to strive towards after your career is definitely important and not only is it good for my mental health it helps with rugby as well.”

Tom Robertson of the Force gets assistance off the field after getting injured during the round 13 Super Rugby Pacific match between Western Force and ACT Brumbies at HBF Park, on May 20, 2023, in Perth, Australia. (Photo by James Worsfold/Getty Images)

Robertson has played 31 Tests for the Wallabies since debuting in 2016.

Wallabies head coach Eddie Jones said: “Tom is an experienced Test player who was in good form for the Western Force this year.

“His ability to play both sides of the scrum is highly valuable and we wish him all the best for a quick and successful recovery.”

Tom Robertson in action for the Western Force. Picture: Getty Images

Western Force head coach Simon Cron added: “Tom is a big part of our team. He’s a great man, we love him.

“His versatility to cover both loosehead and tighthead is a huge asset to our squad.

“He is an incredibly smart man, with big aspirations ahead in both his rugby and medical career.

“The Force will miss him in the mix next season; however his personality, work ethic and experience will be welcomed back in 2025.”

Originally published as Wallabies prop Tom Robertson signs Oxford University sabbatical contract