Welcome to another episode of Rugby Through the Leagues podcast! Recorded alongside our recent grassroots episode, this installment dives into international rugby dynamics. We discuss the Portuguese game, the issues with Irish player media contracts, and the state of rugby in various European nations. We also touch on the amateur nature of hurling in Ireland, the challenges facing Welsh rugby, and the potential expansion of Tier 2 nations. The conversation includes a look at the American market, the struggles of Major League Rugby (MLR), and how grassroots rugby operates differently from football at the local level. Tune in for engaging debates on the future of rugby and its global growth!

00:00 Introduction and Disclaimer
00:31 Irish Rugby and Media Restrictions
01:16 Comparing Rugby Cultures: Ireland vs. Others
03:19 The Popularity of Hurling in Ireland
09:35 Challenges in Welsh and Scottish Rugby
11:39 The Struggles of Tier Two Nations
18:06 The Future of Rugby: Global Expansion and Challenges
21:22 Grassroots Rugby and Club Struggles
23:10 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Rugby TTL: Grassroots, Tough Grounds, and Memorable Matches

In this episode of the Rugby through the Leagues podcast, host Carl is joined by Keith from Ireland and Polly, a returning guest. Keith introduces himself and shares his experiences in grassroots rugby, while Polly and Carl discuss their passion for the game and the importance of bringing more people into rugby clubs. The conversation takes a humorous turn as they recount their worst weather conditions during matches, share stories of the best food they've had post-game, and debate the most hostile grounds they've played at. From reminiscing about school matches to discussing the vital role of referees, this episode covers it all. Tune in to hear about Carl's future plans for the podcast and exciting collaborations in the rugby community.

00:00 Welcome and Introductions
00:33 Keith's Rugby Journey
01:51 Polly's Perspective on Rugby
02:52 Grassroots Rugby and Weather Woes
04:48 Memorable Matches and Tough Conditions
08:55 Best and Worst Rugby Experiences
14:53 Hostile Grounds and Referee Challenges
23:29 Upcoming Season and Future Plans
24:07 Closing Remarks and Call to Action

Scott Steele: From Early Rugby Retirement to Transitioning Careers | Rugby TTL Podcast

Welcome to another episode of Rugby Through the League's podcast. This week, we feature Scott Steele, a phenomenal rugby player we reached out to after the Adam McBurney interview. Steele shares his remarkable journey, from pulling on the Scottish jersey to an early retirement at 30. Steele walks us through his rugby career, the highs and lows, and how he transitioned from professional rugby to a new career. This episode dives into the importance of transferable skills, the differences between rugby clubs, and the role of rugby values in personal development. For those transitioning out of pro sports or interested in rugby careers, Steele provides valuable insights and advice.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
01:37 Scott Steele's Early Rugby Career
04:42 Challenges and Triumphs at London Irish
06:12 Transition to Harlequins and National Team Success
07:33 Injuries and Decision to Retire
09:24 Post-Retirement Career and Reflections
13:38 Impact of Rugby Values in New Career
16:03 State of Rugby in Schools and Clubs
24:06 Playing Club Rugby Post-Retirement
27:26 Transitioning Out of Professional Rugby
32:54 Exploring Career Options Beyond Rugby
33:24 Challenges in Scotland's Rugby Transition
35:04 The Unique Culture of London Irish
39:21 Memorable Moments and Highlights
44:14 The Reality of Youth Players in Rugby
48:01 The Journey to the Scottish National Team
55:44 Reflections on Rugby Career and Retirement

Exclusive Interview with Portugal's Rugby Captain Tomás Appleton | Rugby Through the Leagues Podcast

In this episode of Rugby Through the Leagues podcast, we chat with Tomás Appleton, the captain of Portugal's national rugby team. Thomas shares insights into his rugby career, from his beginnings at CDUL to his professional stint in England. We delve into his experience at the 2023 Rugby World Cup and the state of rugby development in Portugal. Thomas discusses the challenges and opportunities in Portuguese rugby, including the need for better infrastructure and the importance of grassroots initiatives. He also reflects on his unique personal journey balancing rugby, a dental career, and a degree in medicine. This episode is a must-watch for rugby fans and those interested in the growth of the sport in emerging nations.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:33 Tomás Appleton's Rugby Journey
02:38 Playing for Darlington and Differences in Rugby Leagues
06:50 Balancing Rugby and a Medical Career
10:50 Challenges and Development in Portuguese Rugby
21:41 Exposure and Future of Portuguese Rugby
23:31 Challenges in Rugby Development
24:05 The Importance of Professionalism in Rugby
26:56 Portuguese Rugby's Unique Style
28:27 The Role of Sevens in Rugby Development
32:12 Facing Ireland: A Major Opportunity
37:38 Reflecting on the 2023 World Cup
43:10 Rebuilding and Future Goals
50:08 Emerging Talent in Portuguese Rugby

From Rugby Fields to the Weight Room: John Clark's Incredible Journey | Rugby Through the Leagues Podcast

In this episode of Rugby Through the Leagues Podcast, we are joined by the inspiring John Clark, a rugby player and fitness enthusiast who has overcome significant physical challenges. John shares his journey from playing rugby at a young age to competing as Britain’s strongest natural man, and how a devastating neck injury led him to shift his focus to fitness. Despite his tough setbacks, including hearing loss, John made a remarkable return to rugby, representing the England Deaf Rugby team. We delve into his fitness philosophy, the importance of pre-season training, and the evolving nature of the fitness industry. This conversation is a testament to resilience, passion, and unwavering dedication to the sport and to personal growth. Don't miss this motivating story of turning adversity into strength!

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:38 John Clark's Rugby Journey
02:30 Transition to Strongman and Fitness
03:30 Endurance Challenges and Return to Rugby
04:00 Hearing Loss and Joining England Deaf
09:16 Reflections on Rugby Culture and Youth Development
13:55 Balancing Rugby and Family Life
17:00 Coaching and Future Plans
28:12 Challenges of Communication in Rugby
31:56 Adapting to Hearing Loss in Family Life
35:08 Pre-Season Training Strategies
44:11 The Importance of Tracking Progress
46:31 The State of the Fitness Industry
57:31 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

In-Depth Interview with Mario Pichardiei: Spanish Rugby's Rising Star

Welcome to another episode of Rugby through the League's podcast! In this special in-person episode, we sit down with Mario Pichardie, a prominent figure in Spanish rugby. We delve into Mario's experiences, including his new journey with a French club, the dynamics of Spanish players in France, and the development of rugby in Spain. From his initial days at Wasps, his influential role in the Spain national team, to his aspirations for the future, Mario shares it all. We also discuss the potential for Spain hosting the 2035 Rugby World Cup and the current state of rugby development in the country. Tune in for an insightful conversation with a passionate rugby talent who's making waves in the sport!

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:33 Mario Pichardie's New Club in France
01:10 Challenges and Opportunities in French Rugby
03:54 Mario's Rugby Journey and Education
05:59 Spanish Rugby Development and Challenges
09:26 Spain's Rugby World Cup Aspirations
16:36 The Future of Rugby in Spain
20:31 Challenges of Hosting Rugby Tournaments in Spain
21:01 The Rugby Culture in Spain and Stadium Attendance
21:21 Travel and Logistics for Rugby Tournaments in Spain
21:43 Rugby in Bilbao and Catalonia
22:36 Filling Stadiums and Pre-Game Festivities
23:29 Personal Stories: Playing Rugby in France
23:56 Dreams of Playing with Family
25:44 The Impact of Brexit on Rugby Careers
26:18 Pathways to Professional Rugby
26:55 Goals for the Rugby Europe Championships
28:15 Reflecting on Past Matches and Performances
30:53 The Importance of Game Time and Training
34:38 Future Aspirations and Career Plans
37:16 Memorable Players and Influences
39:09 Concluding Thoughts and Future Plans

Lions Tour Squad Breakdown with Huw Griffin | Rugby Through the Leagues

In this episode of the Rugby Through the Leagues podcast, we delve into the 2025 Lions Tour squad with special guest Huw Griffin. This comprehensive discussion covers player selections, positional breakdowns, potential stars, and the crucial matchups against Australia. We also speculate on test scores and debate the nuanced strategies that could shape the outcome of the tour. Tune in for expert insights and engaging rugby analysis!

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
01:21 Discussing the Lions Tour and Key Players
05:50 Tour Schedule and Logistics
10:41 Challenges and Key Matches
15:37 Squad Analysis: Front Row
24:41 Squad Analysis: Second Row
28:38 Squad Analysis: Back Row
29:24 Lineout Strategies and Trends
33:23 Selecting the Starting Test Forward Pack
37:18 Scrum-Half Selection Debate
41:39 Fly-Half and Center Partnerships
47:29 Wingers and Fullbacks
53:23 Young Talents and Final Predictions
55:47 Concluding Thoughts and Farewell

An Inside Look into Romanian Rugby with Adam McBurney | Rugby through the Leagues Podcast

In this episode of Rugby through the League podcast, host Carl welcomes special guest Adam McBurney. Adam shares his fascinating journey through various rugby teams, from his time at Ulster & Edinburgh to his current position playing rugby in Romania. McBurney discusses his experiences at clubs like Connacht and Gloucester, the challenges and cultural differences he has encountered in Romania, and his hopes for the future, including potentially playing international rugby for Romania. This episode offers a unique insider's view into the world of Romanian rugby and McBurney's personal and professional growth. Subscribe and follow us for more intriguing episodes with rugby personalities from around the world.

00:00 Welcome and Introduction
00:23 Guest Introduction: Adam McBurney
00:49 Adam's Rugby Journey
01:47 Experiences in Edinburgh and Gloucester
02:48 Transition to Connacht
03:26 Challenges and Opportunities in Connacht
04:33 Move to Romania
06:07 Life and Rugby in Romania
08:05 Training and Team Dynamics
17:27 Fan Culture and Game Day Atmosphere
26:42 Perfect Timing in Career
27:12 Experiencing Romania
27:47 Contract Details and Future Plans
28:20 Ambitions in Rugby
29:10 International Rugby Aspirations
30:44 Romanian Rugby Culture
33:14 Challenges and Opportunities in Romanian Rugby
38:32 Grassroots Beginnings
48:20 Cultural Differences and Adaptation
51:48 Reflections and Future Prospects
53:13 Best Player Encountered
54:26 Closing Remarks and Future Guests