Non-bank lender Pepper Money recently provided its broker partners with a unique experience by hosting an exclusive event at the Wests Tigers Rugby League Club.
Held at the club's state-of-the-art facilities, brokers were given a "behind the scenes" tour and received insider tips on how to "Train like a Tiger."
The event was a chance for brokers to learn from the pros and see the rigorous training routines that go into competing at the highest level.
The day featured inspiring sessions from rugby league icons Benji Marshall and Brett Kimmorley.
Both legends shared their stories on leadership, maintaining a positive mindset, the importance of family, and self-belief.
“It was an incredible experience to see the dedication and hard work that goes into training at the highest level,” said Siobhan Williams, Pepper Money's head of broker partnerships. “Benji and Brett’s insights on leadership and teamwork were truly inspiring. We are grateful to the Wests Tigers for hosting us and to our broker partners for their continued support.”
Reflecting on the parallels between sports and business, Williams said the coaching and leadership styles of head coaches Marshall and Kimmorley offer valuable lessons in resilience.
“Brokers and our entire industry will need to demonstrate resilience and strong leadership to navigate the things we cannot control,” Williams said.
“The ability to bounce back from the setbacks, adapt your business strategy, and remain steadfast in the pursuit of client success is what defines excellence.”
Drawing on comparisons between the finance industry and the football field, NRL head coach Marshall shared his approach to leadership.
“One loss or a bad game doesn’t define us. It’s crucial to keep the team you lead focused on the bigger picture and the common goal,” Marhsall said. “My role as head coach is to stay positive and remember where the team are headed.”
Marshall also highlighted the importance of focusing on strengths.
“You’ll see some players, they’ll have five good games and then they’ll have one bad game and think that defines their whole season – not thinking about the five games that were good,” Marshall said.
“They’re human – they react the same way anyone would to criticism and that can be distracting. The approach I like to take is show my team what they are good at – I’ll say, let’s just focus on that.”
Marshall spoke intimately about the role of family in his life, saying, “Success on the field means nothing if you don’t have your family by your side. Always put family first, because they are your true team and biggest supporters.”
On staying motivated, he emphasised his sense of purpose:
“For me, it’s not just about the footy or the financial aspects; it’s about the people on my team,” he said.
“Every single day, I have the chance to inspire my team to strive for excellence, not just in their performance, but in their personal growth as well. That sense of purpose keeps me motivated and passionate about what I do.”
NRLW head coach Kimmorley echoed Marshall’s sentiments, emphasising the importance of self-belief.
“Self-belief is the foundation on which you can build your goals and aspirations. However, it’s equally important to recognise that the journey won’t always be smooth,” Kimmorley said.
“Life is full of ups and downs, and not every moment will be perfect or ideal. It’s about understanding that setbacks are a natural part of the process and using them as opportunities to grow and improve.”
Kimmorley drew parallels between the sporting field and the business world, encouraging attendees to visualise their professional challenges.
“Whether you’re on the sporting field or in business, whatever it is you do in life, picture yourself on the field – you have six tackles or six passes to make something happen,” he said.
“The principle is the same for those of you here today, running your own business in your own professional field: hard work is crucial, and success requires consistent effort.”
The event highlighted the ongoing partnership between Pepper Money and the Wests Tigers coaching teams, across both the NRL and NRLW competitions, which was extended in December last year.
The sponsorship includes branding on apparel worn by Marshall and Kimmorley, as well as their assistants.
This partnership continues to provide unique opportunities for brokers to learn from sports professionals, blending insights from the worlds of finance and rugby league.
