NRL Academic Team of the Year honours for Group Seven's Drew Hutchison and Mitch Rein

Albion Park-Oak Flats' Hutchison, who is studying a bachelor of education: primary and recently completed a certificate four: small business, and Kiama's Rein, who is undertaking a bachelor of business, were among 13 players recently recognised by the NRL and Rugby League Players' Association.

Joining Roosters' Hutchison and Titans' Rein - who are former Dragons teammates - in the team are Bulldogs' Joe Stimson and Kyle Flanagan, Roosters' Lindsey Collins ad Brydie Parker, Broncos' Patrick Carrigan and Tarryn Aiken, Sharks' Aiden Tolman, Raiders' Elliott Whitehead, Eels' Shaun Lane, Panthers' Mitch Kenny and Sea Eagles' Tom Trbojevic - who was named 2021 NRL Academic Player of the Year.

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"We congratulate the academic achievements of the 2021 Academic Team of the Year, who deserve recognition for their steadfast commitment to their studies during another season of challenge and significant disruption," RLPA player operations manager Jamie Buhrer said to NRL.com.

"Despite these challenges, this group has shown determination to remain engaged in career development and are each worthy of their place in this academic team worth celebrating."

Of 542 contracted NRL players, 108 have completed or are completing higher education degrees including their masters.

More than 50 are finished or engaged in apprenticeships while 179 are currently working on VET qualifications.

Health and sport-related disciplines are the most studied, followed by business.

NRL wellbeing and education manager Paul Heptonstall said it was a great credit to players who had continued their studies with the added challenge of relocating this season.

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"The NRL has always valued the importance of education and work experience outside of football commitments for players, and time has proven it has a positive impact on their lives as a whole," Heptonstall said.

"We've always supported players engaged in activities outside of rugby league as it prepares them for post-football, but we know it helps their football as well.

"Being engaged in something off the field allows them to have a fresh perspective on footy."

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