From Johburg to Germany: Shawn's Rugby Journey
In this episode of Rugby Through the Leagues podcast, we dive deep into the unique rugby journey of Shawn Ingle, a player who has experienced the sport across three continents. Shawn shares his fascinating journey from playing school rugby in Johannesburg, South Africa, to studying in Australia, and finally moving to the UK where he plays for Maidenhead Rugby Club and represents Germany in the Rugby Europe Championships. We discuss the challenges of balancing a full-time job with international rugby, the emotional highs and lows of the tournament, and the importance of grassroots rugby. Tune in to hear about the ups and downs of transitioning between sevens and fifteens rugby, how Shawn navigated eligibility issues, and the future aspirations for both his club and national teams. Don't miss this compelling episode that highlights the passion and dedication it takes to play rugby at various levels and locations around the world.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
01:08 Shawn's Rugby Journey: From South Africa to the UK
03:03 Joining the German National Team
04:47 Rugby Europe Championships: Challenges and Reflections
08:48 Balancing Rugby and Work
10:39 Favorite Matches and Experiences
13:30 Team Dynamics and Future Plans
22:44 Maidenhead Rugby Club and Personal Growth
25:21 Sevens Circuit and Signature Red Scrum Cap
27:42 The Importance of Wearing a Scrum Cap
28:36 Family Support and Rugby Travels
29:12 Comparing Grassroots Rugby Across Continents
32:52 Transitioning to International Rugby
38:35 Cambridge Rugby Experience
44:39 Future Aspirations and Reflections
47:42 Germany's Rugby Potential and Sevens Success
50:58 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Rugby Legends Featuring Simon Middleton: Insights on Coaching and the Future of Women's Rugby
In this episode of Rugby Through the Leagues podcast, we welcome Simon Middleton, former England Women's Rugby Manager. Simon shares his journey from playing junior rugby union to his coaching career, including his transition to rugby league and his impactful tenure as the head coach for the England Women's team. He provides invaluable insights into coaching at the grassroots and professional levels and discusses the challenges and evolution of women's rugby. Simon also answers audience questions, offering advice for aspiring young coaches and reflecting on pivotal moments in his career. Don't miss this deep dive into the world of rugby with a true legend of the game. Like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments!
00:00 Introduction and Guest Announcement
00:28 Simon Middleton's Rugby Journey
01:23 Transition to Coaching
02:37 Challenges and Triumphs in Coaching
03:25 Involvement with England Sevens and Fifteens
06:44 Coaching Philosophy and Legacy
11:51 Advice for Aspiring Coaches
21:54 Women's Rugby and Social Media
33:17 Naturally Gifted Players and Coaches
38:19 Switching Between Rugby League and Union
44:55 The Unique Strengths of Rugby League Players in Union
45:19 The Toughness and Work Ethic of Northern Players
49:02 The Physical Demands of Rugby League vs. Rugby Union
50:38 The Evolution of Rugby Skills and Coaching
54:15 Reflecting on the 2022 World Cup Final
01:01:18 The Impact of COVID-19 on Rugby Training and Performance
01:07:23 Transitioning from Coaching to Consulting
01:11:23 The Growth of Women's Rugby Globally
01:14:36 The Future of Women's Rugby Competitions
01:28:09 Predictions for the 2025 World Cup
01:30:04 Closing Remarks and Upcoming Episodes

Welcome to episode two of Rugby Through the League's Podcast Series Two. In this episode, host discusses the highs and lows of the Rugby Europe Championships, touching on standout teams and performances, such as Georgia's dominance and Spain's noteworthy second-place finish. Unfortunately, the scheduled guest commentator for Rugby Europe championships, Justin Middleton, had to cancel last minute. However, the episode delves deep into the potential future of Rugby Europe, the possible inclusion of teams like Spain and Georgia in the Six Nations, and the overall development of the sport across the continent. Additionally, upcoming episodes and interviews with notable figures like Simon Middleton are teased, setting the stage for more engaging content. Don't forget to subscribe, like, and comment to stay updated with all things rugby.

00:00 Welcome to Episode Two

00:21 Rugby Europe Championships Recap

00:52 Spain's Standout Performance

02:47 Future of Rugby Europe Championships

03:07 Six Nations and Emerging Nations

05:46 Spain and Georgia's Aspirations

07:53 Challenges for Spanish Rugby

12:41 URC and Black Lions

17:34 Promotion and Relegation in Rugby Europe

25:21 Women's Rugby Europe Championships

30:27 Future of Rugby Europe and Six Nations

37:01 Conclusion and Upcoming Episodes