What’s All The Ruckus?

In this episode, we speak to Henry Blunck, one of the founders of Ascent Rugby, about an ambitious new competition aiming to change the landscape of the game in Central Europe.With the inaugural festival taking place in Frankfurt tomorrow, Blunck explains why Ascent Rugby was created, the challenges facing the sport in Germany and the wider region, and how a unique festival format could give developing clubs more opportunities to test themselves against stronger opposition.We also discuss the growing interest in rugby across Germany, why that has not yet translated into improved performances on the pitch, and the long-term vision for a competition that has already attracted interest from clubs across Europe and beyond.x:@AllTheRuckusPod

Episode two with Tier 2 rugby journeyman and podcast legend Karl Savimaki is here.Karl takes us through the next chapter of his remarkable coaching career, including his hugely successful spell with Sweden and the many stops along the way that have made him one of the most well-travelled coaches in Tier 2 rugby.He has already joined us to discuss the earlier stages of his career, and if you haven't heard that episode yet, it is well worth a listen. This time, we pick up where we left off and dive into some of the stories, challenges and experiences from his journey since then.Note: Karl has since left the Australian job he was in when this episode was recorded. He left the role between recording and publication.x: @AllTheRuckusPodEpisode one with Karl: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1Tul9QK9iTVnToPbFCCYq4?si=dN_BSsiITWqsTpl9SzIoMg

In this episode, we sit down with UAE international Jack Stapley for an honest look at his rugby journey so far. He reflects on his club career in England, discusses an exciting upcoming move, and opens up about representing the UAE during an incredibly challenging period, with the ongoing conflict in the Middle East creating uncertainty around the national team's future and preparations.Please note: This podcast was recorded around a month ago, so some of the topics discussed may have developed since filming.X:@AllTheRuckusPod

This week, we’re joined by Sam Thompson, a rugby player representing the British Virgin Islands. Sam shares his unique journey to the islands, how he came to wear the BVI jersey, and what it’s like playing rugby in a place many people have never even heard of, let alone realised has a rugby team. From island life to the growth of the game in an unexpected corner of the world, this is a fascinating insight into rugby beyond the traditional powerhouse nations.Apologies for the delay since the last episode, work and life has been busy recently so it the podcast has had to take a back seat. We will be back with consistent uploads from now.X:@AllTheRuckusPod

This week, we're joined by Andrew Brace, one of rugby's leading referees and a man whose journey through the game is anything but conventional.Born in Cardiff, raised between Wales and Ireland, and a former international player for Belgium, Andrew takes us through a remarkable rugby story that spans playing, coaching, community development and officiating at the very highest level of the game.We dive into his playing days with Belgium, including a brilliant and heartfelt story about his connection to the country and what representing the Black Devils meant to him. From there, we explore the wider world of Tier 2 rugby, discussing the challenges, opportunities and growth of the game beyond the traditional powerhouses.Andrew also reflects on his transition from player to referee, the path that took him from grassroots rugby to Six Nations matches, Rugby Championship fixtures and the Rugby World Cup. Along the way, he offers fascinating insights into modern officiating, game management and life in the middle.We also tackle the unfortunate reality of abuse directed at match officials, discussing why it remains an issue across all levels of the sport and what can be done to create a healthier environment for referees.x:@AllTheRuckusPod

Scotsman Johnny Harris has spent more than a decade building a life, and now a rugby movement, in Vietnam.As founder of Dai Viet Rugby, Harris is laying the foundations for what he hopes will one day become a fully established rugby ecosystem in Vietnam. In the absence of an official national federation, Dai Viet has stepped into the gap by organising competitions, grassroots programmes and flagship events designed to grow participation and create sustainable structures for the future.In this episode, Harris reflects on his journey from Motherwell to Hanoi, the challenges of building rugby in a niche sporting market, and why he believes the values of rugby resonate strongly across Asia.He also discusses the success of the Hanoi 10’s, the social impact work behind Dai Viet’s Gieo Mầm programme, and the ambition to take Vietnam onto the regional rugby stage in the years ahead.At the heart of the conversation is one simple goal: putting Vietnam on the rugby map.x: @AllTheRuckusPod

Germany head coach Michael Poppmeier joins the podcast for an in-depth conversation about stepping into the top job during a pivotal moment for German rugby. Fresh from his appointment following Mark Kuhlmann’s departure, Poppmeier discusses rebuilding a team that has just been relegated in the Rugby Europe structure, the lessons from his playing days with South Africa U21, and his coaching journey across Germany, Israel and beyond. He also explores his vision for culture, player pathways, and how Germany can reconnect with talent across Europe while modernising its identity on and off the field.x: @AllTheRuckusPod

Singapore has long been a key stop on the global Sevens circuit, but can it become a genuine rugby powerhouse in its own right? In this episode, we sit down with Paul Tietjens, Head of Sevens in Singapore, to explore how the nation is building its rugby identity through the fast-paced format of the game.We discuss the challenges and opportunities facing rugby in South East Asia, why Sevens can be the engine for long-term growth in fifteens, and how Singapore compares with regional rival Hong Kong in infrastructure, culture, and ambition.Rugby pedigree runs deep in the Tietjens family. Paul is the son of legendary coach Sir Gordon Tietjens, widely regarded as one of the greatest Sevens coaches of all time after transforming the All Blacks sevens team into a global force over more than two decades. We also talk about the influence of growing up around elite rugby environments, and what lessons from New Zealand and Samoa can be applied to emerging rugby nations today.x:@AllTheRuckusPod

In this episode, we sit down with Daniel Wallis Downham to explore one of the most unique stories in international rugby. Born and raised in Andorra, something incredibly rare given the nation’s tiny population, Wallis Downham shares what it was like growing up in a country few associate with rugby, and how that journey shaped both his career and identity.We dive into the rise of the Andorran national team, discussing how they’ve consistently punched above their weight against far larger rugby nations, the challenges of developing the sport in a small country, and the pride that comes with representing Andorra on the international stage.Wallis Downham also reflects on his own playing career, key moments along the way, and the ambitions he and the team still have for the future. A fascinating conversation about passion, perseverance, and a rugby nation that deserves far more attention.x:@AllTheRuckusPod

In this episode, we sit down with Peter Kavcic, former Slovenia international rugby player and now head coach, to dive into the realities of leading a developing rugby nation.Peter opens up about the key challenges facing the Slovenian team, from player depth to resources, and shares how they’re building solutions from the ground up. We also explore the team’s mindset shift, their long-term vision, and the culture they’re creating to stay competitive.Plus, we discuss Slovenia’s unique place in rugby history, including the remarkable world record they hold, and how that achievement continues to inspire the squad today.Currently competing in the Rugby Europe Conference, Slovenia isn’t just participating, they have serious ambitions to climb the ranks.X: @AllTheRuckusPod

This week, Charlie and Josh dive into one of the biggest talking points in rugby right now, the news that Moana Pasifika look set to exit Super Rugby at the end of the season. It is a move that has sparked strong reactions across the rugby world, and unsurprisingly we do not exactly see eye to eye on it.Is this a necessary step for the competition’s future, or a huge loss for representation and growth in the game? We break down the pros, the cons, and everything in between as we go head to head in a proper debate, challenging each other’s views and trying to reach some kind of middle ground.As always, we want to hear from you. Do you think this is the right decision, or a major mistake? Let us know where you stand and join the conversation.

In this episode, we sit down with one of rugby’s most formidable figures, Jamie Cudmore. From a turbulent upbringing in Winnipeg to becoming a four-time Rugby World Cup veteran for Canada, Jamie’s story is anything but ordinary.He takes us through his journey from local club rugby in British Columbia to the elite stages of Europe, sharing what it was like to compete in Wales and France with top clubs like Clermont, where he helped secure a historic Top 14 title. Known for his uncompromising physicality on the field, Jamie opens up about the mindset that made him one of the game’s toughest enforcers—and the personal challenges that shaped him along the way.We also dive into the turning points in his life: how rugby helped him redirect a troubled youth, the lessons learned from decades in professional sport, and the realities of life after retirement. Jamie speaks candidly about controversy, accountability, and what it means to grow beyond the game.X:@AllTheRuckusPod

From a small Dutch village to the biggest stage in world rugby, this episode dives into the remarkable rise of Fabian Holland. At just 23, he’s already made his mark with the All Blacks—but his journey is anything but conventional.We unpack the defining moments behind Holland’s bold decision to leave the Netherlands and fully commit to New Zealand, exploring the sacrifices, risks, and mindset that shaped his path. From emailing a school halfway across the world to switching positions and fast-tracking through elite rugby ranks, his story is one of ambition, adaptability, and belief.Holland also opens up about turning his back on his country of birth, the support he’s received from home, and how his success is inspiring a new generation of Dutch players to dream bigger.x:@AllTheRuckusPod

At just 21, Finlay Harrison is already rewriting the coaching playbook. In this episode, we sit down with the youngest international head coach in world rugby, now leading Hungary’s sevens programme and shaping the future of their XVs setup.After a promising playing career with Gloucester was cut short by injury, Harrison pivoted into coaching, rising rapidly through roles at Henley Rugby and Ultimate Rugby Sevens before taking on one of the sport’s most demanding jobs. Thrust into a senior international environment with players older and more experienced than himself, he’s had to win trust quickly and build a culture from the ground up.We dive into his bold vision for Hungarian rugby, from chasing a historic Rugby Europe Sevens Trophy medal in 2026 to laying the foundations for long-term success, and even dreaming of Olympic qualification. Harrison also reflects on the challenges of balancing sevens and fifteens, embracing mistakes at a young age, and why his mindset is simple: why not us?x:@AllTheRuckusPod

In this episode, we sit down with Nabs Al Busaidi, Chairman of the Oman Rugby Committee, for a conversation that moves from the edge of the world to the heart of a growing rugby community. Nabs made history as the first Arab to walk to the Magnetic North Pole and to row across the Atlantic Ocean, testing himself in some of the toughest conditions on earth.But this chat is less about records and more about purpose. Nabs opens up about what drives him, how those extreme experiences shaped his mindset, and why he has now turned his energy toward building rugby in Oman.Instead of following the traditional pathway, Oman has leaned into Touch Rugby as a way to make the sport more accessible, inclusive, and fun. We explore why Touch has become central to their strategy, how it is bringing new people into the game, and what other unions might learn from their approach.X: @AllTheRuckusPod

In this episode, we sit down with Jaco Engels — former Namibia international prop, Super Rugby winner, and current coach within the Namibian national setup. Jaco reflects on a rugged playing career that took him through South Africa’s Currie Cup with the Leopards, Boland Cavaliers and Blue Bulls, before becoming part of both Currie Cup and Super Rugby–winning squads with the Bulls in Pretoria.He shares stories from his time with the Eastern Province Kings and the Southern Kings during the 2013 Super Rugby season, as well as the journey that led to his international debut for Namibia at the age of 32 — culminating in a Rugby World Cup appearance in 2015 against the All Blacks.Now coaching, Jaco also opens up about his unique experience working in Russia during the pandemic and the early stages of the war in Ukraine, and what he is doing now in his return to Namibia.X: @AllTheRuckusPod

In this episode, we sit down with Stephen Lewis — the only coach to have led three nationa at once (Guyana, Costa Rica, and Nigeria) on the international stage, and a two-time USA Rugby Coach of the Year. Widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in Tier 2 rugby, Lewis brings a global perspective shaped by building programs from the ground up and competing across diverse rugby landscapes.We dive into his remarkable coaching journey, the challenges and opportunities facing emerging rugby nations, and a candid discussion on World Rugby’s governance of the sevens game. Lewis also shares insight into his work with Elevate Rugby, an innovative platform providing resources, mentorship, and strategic support for coaches at every level of the game.A fascinating conversation with a coach who continues to shape the global rugby conversation.www.elevate-rugby.comX: @AllTheRuckusPod

In this episode, we sit down with Bermuda Rugby’s new Operations Director, Jason Hendrie, who made the bold move from his native Scotland to the island just a few months ago. Jason shares his unique journey from working as a painter and decorator to stepping onto the sidelines as a rugby coach, and now into rugby administration in Bermuda.We dive into his passion for the game, what inspired his career transition, and how his Scottish rugby roots are shaping his vision for the sport locally. Jason also discusses the current state of rugby in Bermuda, development pathways, and the opportunities and challenges facing the island game.Plus, we reflect on the lasting impact of rugby sevens legend Waisale Serevi and what his influence has meant for players and the rugby culture in Bermuda.X:@AllTheRuckusPod

In this episode, we’re joined by Jeff Arribard de Gael, Head Coach of Gabon Rugby and founder of the charity Sport Citizen. Jeff takes us inside his role within the Gabon setup, the realities and challenges facing Gabonese rugby, and the progress being made on and off the field. We also explore the inspiring work of Sport Citizen and discuss why rugby can be such a powerful tool for education, inclusion, and community development. A thoughtful conversation about leadership, impact, and the wider role of sport in society.www.sportcitizen.orgX:@AllTheRuckusPod

We’re joined by Ahmed Kane, Switzerland’s dynamic second row and one of the brightest talents in the country at just 24. Currently plying his trade with Chambéry in France’s third division, Kane talks about his rapid rise, life in the French system, and the challenge ahead for Switzerland in year two of the Rugby Europe Championship cycle. With clashes against the likes of Georgia on the horizon, it’s a brutal test as Switzerland fight to stay up and avoid relegation back to the Trophy. A fascinating insight into a player — and a nation — on the rise.X:@AllTheRuckusPod

In this episode, we sit down with Georgia star Davit Niniashvili to tackle some of the biggest and most contentious topics in Georgian rugby. From the ongoing debate around Georgia’s inclusion in the Six Nations, to the appointment of new head coach Pierre-Henry Broncan, and plenty more besides. A huge thank you to everyone who sent in questions — if yours wasn’t answered, my apologies, but they were all very much appreciated.X: @AllTheRuckusPod

In this episode, we sit down with Mariano Garcete, captain of the Paraguay national team, for a candid and hard-hitting conversation following one of the most turbulent moments in Paraguayan rugby history.After Paraguay’s historic two-legged victory over Brazil in World Cup qualifying, the team was disqualified from the Repechage for fielding an ineligible player, a decision that sent shockwaves through South American rugby. Mariano speaks openly about the emotional toll the ruling took on the squad, the country, and himself as captain, and doesn’t hold back in a scathing critique of World Rugby and what he sees as damaging recent changes in the global game.The conversation also turns to his decision to step away from Yacaré XV and Super Rugby Americas, reflecting on his personal journey, the pressures of professional rugby in the region, and why the competition remains vital to the growth and credibility of South American rugby.X: @AllTheRuckusPod

We’re joined by Saudi Arabia international Jimmy Wheeler for a deep dive into what rugby really looks like on the ground in the Kingdom, the ambitions driving the game forward, and the wider Middle East scene. Jimmy also chats about R360, his recent run at the Dubai 7s alongside some household names, and his unique journey from the Bath Academy to building a life in Saudi.X: @AllTheRuckusPod

Bonus Episode: We’re joined by Sebastian Taylor of Costa Rica Rugby to discuss the programmes currently being rolled out across the country and the overall state of the game. With a packed schedule of recorded episodes, we thought we’d bring you this extra conversation—while our regular episode still drops on Tuesday as usual.X:@AllTheRuckusPod

In this episode, we sit down with Ali Taha Brown — a Jordan international whose journey in sport is as unique as it is inspiring. Beyond representing Jordan on the rugby field, Ali also serves as a board advisor at English football club Southend United, giving him a rare perspective on the game both on and off the pitch.We talk about his lifelong love of sport, how he first discovered rugby, and the path that led him to wearing the Jordanian jersey on the international stage. Ali also opens up about the realities of playing and developing rugby in Jordan and across Asia, sharing insights into the challenges, growth, and untapped potential of the game in the region.X:@AllTheRuckusPodAli's podcast: Taha Talks

In this episode, we’re joined by Kevin Brou — former Ivory Coast prop with one of the most unique journeys in rugby. Born and raised in the United States, Kevin carved out a professional career that took him from the MLR to France, before an unexpected and remarkable path led him to represent Ivory Coast on the international stage.Kevin shares the incredible story of how he became eligible and ultimately pulled on the Elephants jersey, along with honest insights into the realities of international rugby outside the traditional powerhouses. We dive deep into the challenges and opportunities of growing the game in Ivory Coast, the evolution of rugby in America, and what rugby needs globally to continue expanding in new markets.X: @AllTheRuckusPod

In this episode, we sit down with Orion Jucja, co-founder of the Albania Rugby Federation and the Tirana Lions Rugby Club, alongside his close collaborator Arnaldo Telo, to hear the remarkable story of how rugby found a home in Albania.Orion takes us back to the early days — the curiosity, the obstacles, and the moments of belief it took to introduce a largely unknown sport to a new country. From playing on improvised pitches to building a national federation, this conversation is as much about people and persistence as it is about rugby.We explore what rugby culture looks like in Albania today, how the sport is steadily growing, and why its values of community, respect, and resilience resonate so deeply with players and supporters alike. Along the way, Orion shares personal reflections on leadership, friendship, and what it means to build something meaningful from the ground up.X: @AllTheRuckusPod

In this episode, we sit down with Paul Altier, Hong Kong China international and future 2027 Rugby World Cup representative. Recorded before the tournament draw, we now know Hong Kong China will be facing New Zealand, hosts Australia, and Chile—a monumental stage for Paul and his teammates.Paul becomes our third guest from Hong Kong, joining Alex Post and Matt Worley, and it was fascinating to hear yet another unique perspective on their remarkable qualification journey.We dive into what rugby life in Hong Kong is really like, the team’s growth, and how they’re preparing for the world’s biggest stage.X: @AllTheRuckusPod

This week, we sit down with Stuart Porro, a proud Gibraltarian and key figure in Gibraltar Rugby, ahead of Rugby Europe’s pivotal vote on December 6th.With both Gibraltar and Greece awaiting decisions that could reshape their rugby futures, Porro opens up about the emotion, history and decades of dedication behind Gibraltar’s bid for membership.From the Rock’s deep-rooted rugby culture and the unique Europa Point Stadium to the sacrifices made by volunteers and players alike, Stuart shares why this moment “would mean everything” to a community determined to take its place within the wider European rugby family.RUCK article on the upcoming vote: https://www.ruck.co.uk/rugby-europe-prepares-to-vote-on-two-emerging-forces/X:@AllTheRuckusPod

In this episode, we’re joined by Chris Davies, the newly appointed Head of 7s in Poland—a role that sees him overseeing both the Men’s and Women’s national sevens programmes. Although only a couple of months into leading the full programme, Chris is no stranger to Polish 7s, having previously served as the head coach of the men’s side.Chris brings a wealth of international experience to the conversation. Before moving to Poland, he worked as Skills Coach with the legendary Fiji 7s, and was part of Fiji’s XVs setup for their memorable victory over the Barbarians at Twickenham—their first ever win against the BaaBaas. From world-class high-performance environments to the realities of developing nations, Chris has seen every side of the sport.We dive into his coaching journey, his transition to leading both Polish national teams, and his insider’s view on the state of sevens rugby today—a sport battling funding challenges from the elite level right down to the grassroots. Chris brings plenty of stories, insight, and honesty about what it takes to grow the game in tough circumstances.A huge thank you to Alex Laybourne for connecting us with Chris.If you know someone who you think would make a great guest, we’d love to hear from you!X: @AllTheRuckusPodCheck out Ruck.co.uk

In this episode, we’re joined by Frank Sackey — Ghana international, rugby all-rounder, and all-round great guy. Frank plays both 7s and 15s, and although he’s based in the UK, his heart has always been closely tied to Ghana. He talks openly about what it feels like to pull on the Ghana jersey, not just as an athlete, but as someone honouring his family, his roots, and the place that shaped him.Frank also gives us a warm, honest look at rugby culture in Ghana — the energy, the community, the challenges, and the huge pride that exists around the sport in West Africa. It’s a side of rugby many people rarely get to hear about.Beyond the pitch, we dive into the story behind the Black Rugby Community, the charity Frank helped create to support Black people in rugby who often face barriers that go unseen. He shares why he felt compelled to help build a space where people can feel understood, represented, and backed.Check out Blackrugby.co.uk to find out more about the Black Rugby Community.X:@AllTheRuckusPod

In this episode, we’re joined by Ale Loman, the Swedish prop making history as the first Swedish male player to feature in the Premiership, following his debut for Leicester Tigers against Northampton Saints. Ale takes us through his remarkable journey — from growing up in Lund, discovering rugby as a teenager, to studying in the UK and earning his spot at Nottingham before his loan move to the Tigers.We talk about what drives him, his passion for representing Sweden, and what his story means for players from Tier 2 and 3 nations dreaming of making it to the top. Inspiring, grounded, and trailblazing — Ale’s journey is one you won’t want to miss.x:@AllTheRuckusPod

This week, we dive into the inspiring story of Tony Gillings, the man credited with founding rugby in Belize. After first visiting the country in the 1980s with the UK military, Tony couldn’t shake his connection to the place. Decades later, he made a life-changing decision — quitting his job, packing up everything, and moving to Belize to introduce the sport he loved to a whole new community.Join us as we explore Tony’s journey, the challenges of building a sport from the ground up, and how one man’s passion helped kickstart a movement that continues to grow today.X: @AllTheRuckusPodInstagram: @charlieelliottjournoCheck out Ruck.co.ukTony’s LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tony-gillings-07430420?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app

In today’s episode, we’re heading to the Middle East to chat with Bahrain’s Adam Wallace — a man who’s worn just about every hat possible within Bahrain Rugby Club and the national setup. From Director of Rugby to head coach and captain, Adam has been at the heart of the club’s growth and the country’s emerging rugby scene.While Bahrain Rugby Club has long been a cornerstone of Gulf rugby, 2025 marked a historic milestone with the Bahrain national team’s first-ever international fixture, a dominant win over Jordan — a game in which Adam proudly pulled on the national jersey.We dive into the incredible story behind that debut, the challenges of developing rugby in a non-traditional market, and what the future looks like for Bahrain on both the domestic and international stage. Adam also reflects on the unique culture of rugby in the region, the community around the club, and his hopes for the next generation of players coming through.Check out ⁠www.Ruck.co.uk for everything rugby related.X: ⁠@AllTheRuckusPod⁠

On today’s podcast, we’re joined by James Faktor — a stalwart of the Czechia national rugby team and a mainstay in their recent Rugby Europe Trophy campaigns.With the new Trophy cycle kicking off this weekend, this episode started out as a timely preview of what lies ahead for Czechia and the competition as a whole. But what we didn’t expect was for James to drop some big news during the chat — after years of representing his country, he’s officially retired from international rugby, despite there being no public announcement until now.That revelation shifts the focus of the episode from a look ahead to a celebration of James’ stellar career — from his debut in red and white to becoming one of the team’s most reliable and respected figures. The timing couldn’t have been better, and we were grateful to catch him for a wide-ranging conversation that reflects on both past glories and what’s next for Czechia rugby.Quick heads-up: the intro runs a little longer than usual thanks to some exciting news on our end — but if you want to jump straight into the chat with James, skip ahead to around the 3-minute mark.Check out www.AIMS.co.uk for all of your accounting, financial and business needs.X: @AllTheRuckusPod.

On today's podcast we’re joined by Josh Sutcliffe, the head coach and former player of the Philippines men’s 15s side — better known as the Volcanoes.Rugby in the Philippines was inactive for a number of years until Josh helped to bring it back late last year.The national team is enjoying a strong spell right now, with a growing pool of diaspora players from rugby heartlands like Australia, New Zealand, and the UK, all proudly pulling on the jersey. At the same time, there’s an exciting domestic movement building back home, which adds real depth to the program. Josh, who is based in the USA, led the Volcanoes to the Unions Cup title earlier this year, and we thought it was the perfect time to get his take on what’s working, what’s building, and how they’re balancing international talent with homegrown ambition.We talk about his coaching journey, the unique challenges of managing a team from afar, and what lies ahead for one of Asia’s most intriguing rugby nations.Check out www.AIMS.co.uk for all of your accounting, financial and business needs.X: @AllTheRuckusPod.

On today's podcast we have two brothers who will be playing together in the Rugby Europe Trophy this season, for newly promoted Denmark.We have previously spoken to head coach Andreas Robertson but thought it would interesting to get a player perspective on their chances ahead of what will likely be a challenging campaign.On a positive note, we speak about their journey to qualifying for the second tier of European rugby, what it is like for both of them playing alongside such a close relative, and their eligibility for Denmark given that they are originally from the UK.Check out www.AIMS.co.uk for all of your accounting, financial and business needs.X: @AllTheRuckusPod

On today’s pod, we’re joined by Alejandro “Bola” Pradillo — prop, trailblazer, and the first Mexican player to break into Major League Rugby. After signing with the San Diego Legion in 2024, Bola made history at the top level of North American rugby. But a whirlwind summer — which saw the Legion merge with LA Rugby Club and three other MLR teams fold — left him without a contract and the league in uncertain waters.We talk about what that experience has been like, the broader instability in the MLR, and what it all means for players chasing their dream in emerging rugby nations. Bola also opens up about his international career with Mexico, his playing stints in South Africa and New Zealand, and the frustrating structural issues that prevent countries like Mexico — and others in Central America and the Caribbean — from even having a pathway to the World Cup.It’s one of our most honest conversations yet and a must-listen for anyone who cares about rugby’s global future.Check out www.AIMS.co.uk for all of your accounting, financial and business needs. X: @AllTheRuckusPod

Being of South African, Irish and Swiss descent is certainly the hallmark of a culturally unique fella. However, add domiciling in England to that and you have a man who is the epitome of a globalised world! This week we are joined by the fascinating Donovan O’Grady who combines his day job of working for the Rugby Players Association with being a Switzerland international rugby player. In the pod, Donovan provides his insights into Swiss rugby and the interaction of his day job with Tier 1 players. This is certainly not one to miss for Tier 2 lovers!Check out www.AIMS.co.uk for all of your accounting, financial and business needs. X: @AllTheRuckusPod

On today’s pod, we’re joined by Eldar Karimov, President of the Azerbaijan Rugby Federation. Unlike many unions chasing quick results, Eldar is taking a different path — putting 100% of his focus into growing the game at youth level. Right now, there’s no senior national team in Azerbaijan, and that’s by design. Eldar’s committed to building a strong grassroots system first, with the long-term goal of one day competing with regional powerhouses like Georgia. It’s a refreshingly honest and ambitious chat about what it really takes to grow rugby in a country starting almost from scratch.Check out www.AIMS.co.uk for all of your accounting, financial and business needs.X: @AllTheRuckusPodContact the Azerbaijan Rugby FederationInstagram: @rugbyazerbaijan

This week we step away from the international game to discuss German domestic rugby with President of the Bundesliga, Niko Colic. Niko discusses the state of German rugby, the restructuring of the Bundesliga as well as his short and long term ambitions for rugby in Germany. Check out www.AIMS.co.uk for all of your accounting, financial and business needs. Huge thank you to Rugby in Germany for setting this up.Find them at: @rugby.in.germany on Instagram and @rugbyingermany on XOur socials:X: @AllTheRuckusPod Instagram: @charlieelliottjournoThe chat with Niko starts at 2:27

This week we swap cold Scandinavia for the warm Caribbean to discuss Grenadian rugby with Head Coach Rob Edison.In the podcast, we discuss Rob’s plans for Grenada, as well as his unique coaching trajectory and how this benefits him in his current role.For those who don’t know, Grenada is certainly a fledging rugby nation considering that they only played their first XV game this July. However, this is not to say there is not an interest in the sport on the island, with this being something Rob discusses wanting to harness. Check out www.AIMS.co.uk for all of your accounting, financial and business needs. X: @AllTheRuckusPod Grenada Rugby's Instagram: @grenadarugby

On today’s pod we are joined by Finnish rugby royalty Thomas Finell. With a staggering 70 caps to his name, Finell is certainly a Tier 3 stalwart who has experienced all the highs and lows of playing international rugby for Finland. As part of our Scandinavian double header with Andreas Robertson, this is once again another podcast ideal for those wanting to learn more about rugby in the Nordic nations.Check out www.AIMS.co.uk for all of your accounting, financial and business needs. X: @AllTheRuckusPod

This week we are joined by former Danish sevens player and current Denmark XV Head Coach Andreas Robertson. Currently ranked 60th in the world, Andreas discusses Denmark’s recent promotion from the Rugby Europe Conference, as well as how Denmark will attempt to bridge the gap to teams in the division above. This is an exciting listen for those interested in both Nordic rugby and the development of rugby in a European Tier 3 nation. Check out www.AIMS.co.uk for all of your accounting, financial and business needs. X: @AllTheRuckusPod

This week we welcome Canadian Head Coach Steve Meehan onto the podcast. With over 20 years of coaching experience which has taken Steve from his native Australia to Bath in the English Premiership, Canadian fans will be eager to see how Steve can revolutionise the men’s team following their failed qualification for the 2023 World Cup.We discuss Steve’s ambitions with Canada for their upcoming Pacific Nations Cup campaign, the importance of qualifying for the 2027 World Cup and general developments happening within Canadian rugby. Check out www.AIMS.co.uk for all of your accounting, financial and business needs. X: @AllTheRuckusPod

We are back with a very exciting guest this week, with Hong Kong China hooker Alex Post on to talk all about their recent qualification to the 2027 World Cup (their first ever).Having played for his national team for over a decade, Post had plenty of insight on the progression of his nation and how they've reached this point.Lots on his own personal career and his club side Richmond as well after their promotion to the Champ.Check out www.AIMS.co.uk for all of your accounting, financial and business needs.X: @AllTheRuckusPod

We have Algeria head coach Adrien Buononato on the pod this week, to talk about their meteoric rise over the past year.They have risen up 10 places in the World Rankings and now sit in 43rd, and with a recent third place finish at the Rugby Africa Cup, things are looking positive for the nation.However, almost all of their international success has came from France-based players of Algerian descent, so we speak all about the problems that domestic rugby has over there and how Adrien is helping with it.Find out which former France international is potentially going to be playing for them soon as well.Thank you for listening !X: @AllTheRuckusPod

Today we have one of our most topical episodes of all time, because we have Zimbabwe player Matthew McNab on the pod to talk about their recent World Cup qualification.Matthew came back after two years away from Sables duty to help them get over the line against Namibia, which happened just over a week ago.We talk all about his personal career and how Zimbabwean rugby has progressed over the past few years.Plenty of insight from someone who has just helped his country to a first World Cup in 36 years.X: @AllTheRuckusPod

Apologies for a late upload, we had some technical issues when exporting the audio file, but they're all sorted now.This episode is definitely one that is worth the wait. We have a coach that has worked in Australia, USA, Germany and now Sweden in Karl Savimaki.Currently Sweden's assistant, we hear all about some of the best stories that he has had along the way. For a properly international outlook on rugby, take a listen to this.X: @AllTheRuckusPod

This week, we have someone involved in both one of the biggest names in rugby as well as one of the smallest.Gert Mulder is with the Blue Bulls organisation in South Africa, which includes URC side Vodacom Bulls, whilst also being the head coach of Pakistan.Rugby in Pakistan is extremely small despite the massive population, due in large part to the popularity of cricket.We speak all about his role and career and how Pakistan can develop the sport's popularity.Thank you for listening.X: @AllTheRuckusPod