Raper played in Australia for the Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks and Parramatta Eels[2] and in England for the Castleford Tigers.
Numerous injury problems, including a blood clot that prevented him playing a single game in first grade during the 1994 season, severely affected his career and prevented him from achieving the status predicted after a fine season with Cronulla in 1992.
With Parramatta leading 18–2 with 10 minutes to play, it seemed the club was destined to meet Brisbane the following week in the decider but Canterbury managed to stage an incredible comeback and go on to win the match 32–20 in extra time.
Raper then moved to England to play with Castleford and spent 3 seasons with the club before retiring at the end of 2001.
[9] He previously coached the Cronulla Sharks Jersey Flegg Cup team[10] and the University of Wollongong Bulls.