The ACT & NSW Rugby Union is thrilled to announce the appointment of Aleira Crivici to the Board. Aleira brings extensive experience in governance, commercial law, and risk analysis, coupled with a fierce passion for community sport.
As an accomplished government and commercial lawyer, Aleira offers exceptional strategic and legal insight to the Board. She has thrived in several key leadership roles where she successfully oversaw governance compliance, operational processes, and crucial grant applications. Her extensive background also encompasses risk management, organisational policy development, and strategic oversight.
ACT and SNSW Rugby Union Chair Doug Stuart said:
“We are delighted to welcome Aleira to the ACT & SNSW Rugby Union Board. Her depth of experience in commercial law, governance, and the sports industry more broadly will bring incredible value to our organisation. I’m excited to work alongside her.”
Aleira’s distinct expertise offers strong alignment with the current needs of the union. Her leadership and proven experience will play a pivotal role in guiding the organisation through its next thrilling phase of strategic growth.
At the heart of her approach is a deep commitment to fostering inclusive, well-managed sporting environments, while actively contributing to the expansion of grassroots rugby participation right across our region.
Beyond her impressive professional credentials, Aleira’s connection to the local sporting community is deeply personal. It is rooted in a lifelong appreciation for the dedicated people who make game day happen.
"Having grown up competing in various equestrian disciplines, I have great respect for the people that make sport competitions possible," Aleira explained.
"When the opportunity arose to join the board, I saw it as a way I could get involved in the community and give back my time to enable others to participate in the sport that they love."
For Aleira, the sheer magic of weekend sport is undeniable, and it is an atmosphere she absolutely thrives in.
"From the juniors to seniors, you immediately feel the excitement of being a part of the sporting community," she shared.
"Seeing everyone come together, young and old, to all participate in the game they love, it really is a great feeling."
Stepping onto the Board, Aleira has her sights firmly set on the future of the game, bringing a renewed energy to driving local participation.
"I really want to, and intend to, contribute to the growth of rugby in the ACT and SNSW by helping create an environment where more people feel excited to get involved," Aleira noted.
To achieve this, she is looking at the entire rugby ecosystem to make the sport more vibrant and appealing for all ages and levels.
"Whether that’s encouraging new players to give rugby a go, enticing anyone that has left the game to return, or creating more opportunities for organisations to support the game, I want to play a role in building on the current community and framework."
Taking on a crucial leadership role alongside a demanding legal career and raising two young boys is no small feat. Yet, Aleira tackles her packed schedule with a refreshing blend of grit, gratitude, and a healthy dose of caffeine.
"Coffee. A lot of coffee, ha!" she joked. "I am lucky to be surrounded by a great family that supports me in all that I do."
It is this unwavering support system, paired with her own determined mindset, that allows her to gracefully juggle her commitments. For Aleira, jumping into these challenges is about leading from the front and ensuring the next generation has the same great experiences she values so highly.
"I have two (very) young boys who I know will participate in sport (more than likely rugby) during their lives," Aleira reflected. "And it will be because of the volunteers in the background that they are given those opportunities."