The Tap and Go

England have just returned from India after a chastening 4-1 defeat. After getting off to a winning start, many believed that England could do something which they hadn't been done in over 10 years. Unfortunately it didn't pan out that way and it handed Ben Stokes and Brendan McCullum their first loss as Englands leadership team. Peter Sim entered the England test fold in the Autumn of 2022, just before England's first away series in Pakistan in over a decade. His role as the physical preparation coach has seen him work with individuals and the team across this period. Peter very kindly opened up his perspective of an exciting England dressing room. He talks about the secrets which keep a 40+ year old Jimmy Anderson firing, who his training differs from player to player and also what it is like to tour an intense country like India for such a long time. With England playing some of the most entertaining and exciting cricket we've seen in the last 5 years, it is an incredible time to be able to hear so much about what makes the players tick. Peter started his role out working in rugby and he enlightens me about his perspective in this industry and how despite the games being very different there are many similarities a physio can take between them. This episode is a must for all England cricket fans out there but also for those who are interested in the Personal Training side of things. A thoroughly enjoyable episode and we can't thank Peter enough for giving up his time barely off the plane back from India! It goes without saying that we wish Peter and the entire England team the best of luck for what is going to be an extremely busy summer for them! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Lacrosse hasn't taken place at the Olympics in 124 years. In 2028, that will change! With the exciting news that Lacrosse is coming back for LA 2028, I was lucky enough to catch up with England Internationals Anna Neville and Alice Ripper. Having both started playing lacrosse at the start of their teenage years, they have gone from strength to strength representing England across the age groups and around the globe. Most recently Alice got back from Hong Kong where GB lacrosse were crowned victorious. Off the field lacrosse is different from a lot of the sports which we have hosted on this podcast. Still being an amateur sport, funding is a major issue across both the mens and womens games. Players are forced to raise money or face paying out of their own pocket if they wish to fulfil their dream of playing for England. Alice and Anna open up to us about the demand and excitement growing around the game and chat all things past, present and future in what is an insightful and entertaining 40 minutes! From everyone at The Tap and Go and the Sports Social Network we wish them and England lacrosse the best of luck in their upcoming games! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Welcome Back! England U20's, London Irish and now Gloucester. At the age of 21 Monty Bradbury has already ticked so many boxes. We get to chat to Monty about the end of London Irish and the state of the English game on a whole, we chat England U20's and also the ongoing six nations. Currently recovering from a long-term knee injury, we also discuss the mental and physical sides of rehab and especially as a young sportsman the uncertainty of a career on the big stage after a big injury. Its such a fun episode with an old friend of mine and hope you all enjoy it as much as I did! See you next week. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

He's back again!!! So happy to welcome John back onto the podcast this week. We recorded this episode a few weeks ago when Paarl Royals were flying in the SA20. Unfortunately they fell just short of the big final but what a time John must have had playing with some of the biggest names in cricket. He managed to get a game shortly after we spoke and did himself proud. Was great to chat all things cricket with John. Since we last spoke to him he made his Hundred debut with the Trent Rockets, has been called up to 2 England squads and been two the UAE and the West Indies as well as being drafted into the SA20 playing cricket back in the country where he was born for the first time as a professional. I get the chance to chat all things him and also about the current England set up. With a T20 World Cup on the horizon, can John dare to dream? Have a listen and find out!! Thank you so much for tuning in. Join us next week as we speak to an England Rugby captain and talk more about the fragile state which English rugby finds itself in at the moment. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Welcome back to Series 6 of The Tap and Go! Today we are joined by Welsh International Sevens player Morgan Macrae. He chats to us about his transfer from XV's to VII's and the speed at which it happened is incredible. In August of 2023, Morgans life changed overnight. Suffering a cardiac arrest, it was down to his girlfriend Kitty to perform CPR until the ambulance arrived. Without Kitty's training, Morgan would not be here today. Morgan has come on to create awareness and chat about that day and what has happened to him since. Not only is be bidding to be the first person to suffer a cardiac arrest and play the game afterwards, but he and Kitty are now campaigning for CPR training to part of the standard British driving test. This is a really inspirational story and one which I'd urge everyone to take half an hour out to listen to. All of us at the Tap and Go wish Morgan the best with his return to rugby and also with mysicandme. Make sure to follow them on instagram @mysicandme and also get yourself CPR trained. It takes no time at all and could save someones life. Join us next week to speak to a professional cricketer who's dual nationality has seen him earn a maiden international call up! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After the news which broke earlier this week, we thought it would be rude to not bring back one of our favourite episodes celebrating John Turner's first England contracts! So sit back and enjoy our chat which we had with John just before his break through season down at Hampshire. This week we are very fortunate to have just that. I get the chance to speak to young Hampshire fast bowler John Turner. John made the big move from South Africa to England 18 months ago to pursue his dream of playing professional cricket. Although this move was stalled by covid, something he claims was a blessing in disguise for his career, he has come to the UK and taken it by storm. In his first full season with Hampshire, John took 18 wickets in the Royal London One Day Cup and helped his team all the way to the semi final where they were only undone by a miraculous innings from one of the GOATS, Darren Stevens. In this episode I chat to John about that day, about the journey he has been on to get to this point, about his big move and also about the future. At the young age of 21 he has an incredible career ahead of him and its fascinating hearing what John has to say about his life so far. As well as this we hear all about his balance of University and cricket, who the father figure at Hampshire is and that big question, would Darren Stevens fit in at Hampshire? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What a man to have at the beginning of what is a massive week for English cricket! Mason Crane stops by the podcast to talk all things himself, the Hundred, and of course the Cricket World Cup. The Hampshire Leg-Spinner has made a name for himself in his career, representing England across multiple formats. This last season proved to be one of Mason's most prolific. He helped bowl Hampshire to T20 blast glory and was a pivotal member of London Spirits Franchise who finished 3rd in this years edition of the tournament. I took this opportunity to pick Mason's brain on many things to do with English cricket. A fascinating chat about leg-spinners, or the lack-of in the test side and why this might be, about the structure of the British summer and the intense schedule our players have to cope with, Mason says some lovely words about the late-great Shane Warne who Mason was lucky enough to work with. Some truly fascinating topics, with an even more fasnicating insight into the British game. I also chat to Mason about his own career and the journey he has been on. A test debut in an ashes test match is something many kids dream of, snagging AB De Villiers as your first International wicket isn't far off either! Mason is a truly wonderful talent and an even better bloke. Given the significance of the week, we couldn't not talk about the England lads currently down under. This episode was recorded the night before the semi-finals and how wrong I was! Mason, on the other hand, a true patriarch. If you want to find out who Mason backed to win the final, you'll just have to listen! One massive final thank you to Mason and hope you all enjoy it! See you next week when we delve into the world of motorsport! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Another change up this week, but most certainly not one to miss. This week I was joined by someone, who self proclaimed, has the best job in the world! Mark McAdam always had the dream of working in media and production, and working at Sky, well thats as good as it gets! I catch up with Mark after a hectic few weeks where he's been travelling around the country and living out of a suitcase. It is obviously a very big year in the football calendar with the World Cup approaching every faster and I hoped that Mark could give any England fan just that little bit of optimism despite the dire results that Gareths men have had over the last few months. Mark did exactly that and we can no all blame him if England don't perform in Qatar for getting our hopes up! This episode, although starting with the World Cup was about so much more. Mark was open and honest about everything he has done to date and for any young journalist, producer, reporter or anything revolving around sports production there is a 15 minute segment of this which you just have ton listen to. Mark explained his journey and his process to where he got to today, but as well as this, he took his time to say what he thought were they keys to earning success in this industry. I don't want to ruin the episode but all I'll say is if you're not doing it with a smile on your face, then why are you doing it! 2014 was a very big year for Mark in his career. This was the year that Mark first felt comfortable and open enough to be able to tell the public about his sexuality. Mark was the first openly gay sports reporter and has since paved the way for others in the sport to do the same. He is an inspiration for so many and genuinely one of the nicest people I have ever met. This is right up there with one of the best podcasts on The Tap and Go. I may be biased, but I assure you won't regret giving up an hour to listen to this one. Its long but it's worth it. A massive thank you to Mark again for giving up his evening and coming to chat to us. Keep an eye out for him this weekend as he'll be back on your screens! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I know it has taken a while, but we have our first non-rugby guest! As Matt and I both said at the start of this series when we changed things up a little bit, we are looking to talk to people away from rugby. We want to hear stories and news from all different sporting walks of life. This week we are very fortunate to have just that. I get the chance to speak to young Hampshire fast bowler John Turner. John made the big move from South Africa to England 18 months ago to pursue his dream of playing professional cricket. Although this move was stalled by covid, something he claims was a blessing in disguise for his career, he has come to the UK and taken it by storm. In his first full season with Hampshire, John took 18 wickets in the Royal London One Day Cup and helped his team all the way to the semi final where they were only undone by a miraculous innings from one of the GOATS, Darren Stevens. In this episode I chat to John about that day, about the journey he has been on to get to this point, about his big move and also about the future. At the young age of 21 he has an incredible career ahead of him and its fascinating hearing what John has to say about his life so far. As well as this we hear all about his balance of University and cricket, who the father figure at Hampshire is and that big question, would Darren Stevens fit in at Hampshire? This is a little something different this week but it is one of our favourite episodes and so we hope you all enjoy it as much as we did. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

He is back!! Its been over 2 years we worked out, but Henry Hutchinson has returned! Fresh from being crowned world champion, I catch up with Henry and talk all about the highs and the lows he has experienced since our first chat in lockdown. Australian sevens has been through a whirlwind from the trough of the Olympics in 2020 to the highs of August this year. This is not one to miss!! We also speak about Henry's counterparts in the XV game and that moment from the rugby championship a couple weeks ago! I'd love to hear everyones thoughts on that call by the referee. It is pretty clear for anyone who listens to this where Henry stands, but thats for you to find out!! Until next week, enjoy this chat with the Australian wonderkid. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What a man! This week I was lucky enough to be joined by the founder of the Rugby Players Association, Mr Damian Hopley. Damian joined us very kindly on the morning before he flew off to the Alps to begin a charity challenge for his own charity Restart Rugby. We finish this episode by chatting all about Restart and the amazing job it has done for rugby players in the last few years. I also get the chance to pick Damian's brains about his career, and how he ended up doing what he did for 24 years. Having started as a player and captaining England at sevens, Damian was an excellent player. Sadly, however, his career was cut short by injury. After a lot of operations he was told that it wasn't the right decision to keep playing, and so he decided to from the RPA. Originally without funding, Damian wanted to help the players and look after them. This was the start of what would be the creation of one of the most important organisations involved with rugby today. I talk to Damian a lot about player welfare and two stores in particular which have dominated the press in the last few years. The story of Steve Thompson is one which is known all over due to the severity of it. Luther Burrell's is not far behind. Damian spoke incredibly about both of these two situations and if you're at all interested tune into the podcast and hear what he has to say. You won't regret it! From everyone at The Tap and Go, we'd like to say a big thank you to Damian for coming on and we wish him the best of luck on his travels and hope that he completes the challenge safely and successfully. The link is below for anyone who can spare any money at all to support this wonderful charity. See you next week! https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/damian-hopley6?utm_source=whatsapp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We are back!!!!!!! I'm joined by the legend and current club captain of Wasps Joe Launchbury. I talked to Joe over the summer about his injury hit campaign of 2021-22 and about he managed to cope with it all. We also discussed the youthful nature of the Wasps side and how he see's the future of that squad evolving. We also chat a little bit about Joe's England career and also the England squad at the moment. After a successful tour in Australia, the future is bright for the Red Rose and hopefully the Smith-Farrell combination can only get better and better. Away from the club and international game, one headline which has dominated world rugby is the one surround head collisions and concussion and the long-term damage it is causing. Joe was honest, insightful, and entertaining and a fantastic way to kick start a new series. I hope you enjoy it, and any feedback or support is always welcomed!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We know its taken a while but its finally here. After having to postpone twice due to covid we have finally got the season finale for you! Matt and Freddie were joined by young star for the future Charlie McCaig. Charlie is currently plying his trade in the Exeter Chiefs academy while carrying out his studies at Exeter Uni. He is in his first year and yet a stalwart in the Exeter 1st XV. For anyone who knows anything about the standard of BUCS Super Rugby, you will know how impressive this is. Charlie was really open with us as we chatted about all things uni! How he manages to balance being an 18/19 year old while playing the sport he loves so seriously. Matt and Charlie also compare their schedules and how university and college rugby compare. Safe to say this is an episode for the uni students with some classic storys! We also picked Charlie's brain on the current six nations championship. Safe to say Matt and Freddie were both wrong while Charlie's Scottish roots may have helped him over the line! To finish Matt and Freddie had one announcement to make. Part of the reason this finale has taken so long to film is the lives which Matt and Freddie are currently living. Him being in the US and myself in the UK and often our guest being in a 3rd timezone has made this such a tricky process to manage. Combining this with our busy lifestyles has made us realise that perhaps its time for a change. The Tap and Go journey as you know it is sadly coming to a close. This is not the end, we're just making some changes. Freddie is going to be taking the podcast in a new direction on his own. The Tap and Go will be changing format, but who knows what the future holds and hopefully Matt will be able to come back as a guest from time to time. This podcast has been the most surprising yet insane journey for both of us. We have learnt so much and had so much fun filming all of the episodes. If you had asked us during the first lockdown what we thought would happen, we both agreed we did not expect the success we've had. We want to thank you all for sticking with us and our guests for giving up their time and being so kind to let two boys pick their brains on everything from broadcasting to cooking! We want to thank all of our partners, and our team at Sports Social for letting us do what we do. We will see you soon Matt and Freddie In the mean time we hope you enjoy this final episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we are very fortunate to be joined by new Irish International and Leinster back row Will Connors.After a man of the match display on his debut for Ireland in the Autumn, we speak to Will all about that day and the journey he has been on to get there. From training in the Leinster academy, to his childhood inspirations and family heritage. Will talks fondly and reminisces about his debut and how he went out there with freedom and an attitude to enjoy himself.Wills break through season sadly came to an end early due to a knee injury and so we chat to him about the cruel process of injury lay off and how his progress is going and what he's been doing to try and maximise his potential upon his return. Will also briefly played for Ireland 7's and we chat to him about their meteoric rise in world 7's.Finally, we felt that we had to ask Will about his opinions on the final test between South Africa and the British and Irish Lions. Who he felt would come out on top, his opinion Warren Gatland's selection and his thoughts on the rest of the series already. Upon reflection clearly Will is probably not one to back your money on when it comes to predictions!Many thanks to Will, nevertheless, for giving up his time and coming on to speak to us. We loved chatting to him and wish him the best of luck in his future as we believe he is a very exciting prospect to come and expect we will hear lots from him in the future.Don't forget to check out our instagram page @thetapandgo for exclusives and competitions.

Today we are very fortunate to be joined by up and coming Worcester Warriors fly half and the England U20 talisman Fin Smith.After having his breakthrough season in the premiership, Fin, fresh out of school from Warwick, set the record of being the youngest starter ever for the club. We talk about his tough start against a strong Bath side and how he has found the transition into the life of a professional rugby player.More recently Fin has taken centre stage in the U20 6 Nations and played a vital role in the victorious England team. We talk about life as a teenager in camp and how the RFU looked after and protected these young stars. Finn highlighted the excellent work which his being done at the warriors and by the RFU to look after these young players mental health.Finally Fin gives us his thoughts on the big game between the British and Irish Lions and South Africa. His beliefs on Gatland's selection and whether he thinks the series will be decided in the 2nd test.On the whole a thoroughly enjoyable talk getting the ins and outs of his career and picking his brains on different aspects of the game.Don't forget to check out our instagram page @thetapandgo for exclusives and competitions.

We're back again - after a few weeks of disturbances and issues we have finally got our premiership final review for you!What a game it was and today we are joined by Harlequins back Oscar Beard. Although he wasn't directly involved with the final, Oscar was there with the boys. We talk through the game itself as well as the pre and post match content. Oscar provides insight and some good stories about the celebrations after!We also talk to Oscar about his rise to the game and how he has got into the position he is today. The help he received from his school Cranleigh and the foundations of what we are sure will be a long and successful rugby career. After a storming debut against Sale this year, we look forward to watching him grow and continue to dominate next season.Don't forget to check out our instagram page @thetapandgo for exclusives and competitions.

We're back from our mid season break!Today we get the inside knowledge of how the cogs turn within the most successful rugby team in the world's environment. Nic Gill has worked with the All Blacks for the last 3 Rugby World Cups and we discuss each in turn. The things that went well, and not so well.We discuss the bare bones and the slightly more complicated things behind being an S&C coach, as well as the most impressive / funny things seen inside a gym. The current All Blacks squad is set to be announced in the coming days and we discuss what that means for him and how the process changes between cycles.A slightly different episode to the rest of this season, but we hope you enjoy it as much as we did recording it.Don't forget to check out our instagram page @thetapandgo for exclusives and competitions.

Today we're joined by another up and comer of the game. Harlequins and England U18 (hopefully soon U20) Prop Fin Baxter.Fin talks us through his rise to the game and how he has ended up where he is today. Starting with the source of his love and passion for the game, to his days at Wellington College and the progression he felt there before moving up and into the Harlequins team culminating with his debut against Racing this year.We also touch on his time with England U18's and the honour he experienced by captaining his country and what he looks from this. It is one hell of a journey for anyone of his age, let alone a tight head prop and we chat to him as well about the difficulties of his position, before moving onto the future and what he thinks lies ahead. Tune in for what is a fantastic episode with one for the future, and who knows maybe an England international in the future. Many thanks to Fin for jumping on and hope you all enjoy it.Don't forget to check out our instagram page @thetapandgo for exclusives and competitions.

Today we are very fortunate to be joined by Rugby United New York's very own Troy Lockyear. Despite having grown up in the UK and going to school here, Troy went to college at Berkley and has stayed out in the states ever since chasing a dream of playing rugby professionally. Now a crucial member in the MLR for New York.We talk to Troy about his journey to date and how he has got where he is today. We question him about his brief partnership with the French legend Mathieu Basteraud and playing some true legends of the game who are now plying their trade over in the States.We also chat briefly about his hobbies away from the game. Troy is not only skilled with a rugby ball but also with a pack of cards and we chat all things to do with his magic.A really enjoyable conversation for both of us, especially Matt who's journey to date is one very similar to Troy's. We hope you enjoy this as much as we did.

Episode 3 of the series brings a guest who has applied his trade worldwide on both the World Series Sevens circuit and for his country in XV's. Now he finds himself in the US playing in Washington for Old Glory DC.Danny Tusitala is a Samoan international who grew up in New Zealand with dreams of playing rugby professionally. It was not all that easy to begin with, however, working as a labourer and playing for his local rugby club it seemed unlikely that he was ever going to make it to the top level of the game. In this episode Danny talks to us about his journey which took him from the bottom to the top. A truly inspirational story which epitomises why so many love this beautiful game. He only needed one opportunity and took it.It is clear to anyone who listens just how much this all meant to Danny. We also discuss the gruelling nature of the game and the effect it has on players mentally as well as physically. Having struggled himself personally, he tells the bemusing story of how his career stalled due to his own choice.Matt and I both agreed we have never had an episode quite like this. It's unique in so many ways, thought provoking, emotional, funny, insightful and so many other things. We can't thank Danny enough for coming on and being so open with us and we hope you enjoy it as much as we did.Don't forget to check out our instagram @thetapandgo and to see our new partnership with @looseheadz where you can get 15% off with the code "tapandgo"

Episode 3 of the series brings a guest who has applied his trade worldwide on both the World Series Sevens circuit and for his country in XV's. Now he finds himself in the US playing in Washington for Old Glory DC.Danny Tusitala is a Samoan international who grew up in New Zealand with dreams of playing rugby professionally. It was not all that easy to begin with, however, working as a labourer and playing for his local rugby club it seemed unlikely that he was ever going to make it to the top level of the game. In this episode Danny talks to us about his journey which took him from the bottom to the top. A truly inspirational story which epitomises why so many love this beautiful game. He only needed one opportunity and took it.It is clear to anyone who listens just how much this all meant to Danny. We also discuss the gruelling nature of the game and the effect it has on players mentally as well as physically. Having struggled himself personally, he tells the bemusing story of how his career stalled due to his own choice.Matt and I both agreed we have never had an episode quite like this. It's unique in so many ways, thought provoking, emotional, funny, insightful and so many other things. We can't thank Danny enough for coming on and being so open with us and we hope you enjoy it as much as we did.Don't forget to check out our instagram @thetapandgo and to see our new partnership with @looseheadz where you can get 15% off with the code "tapandgo"

What a treat! Today we have been joined by Sean Fitzpatrick. Sean's a former rugby union player who represented New Zealand, and is widely regarded as one of the finest players ever to come from that country. We felt honoured that he could give up his time to come and speak to us.We chatted all things about his career to begin with, and then got onto the topic of the current All Black's set up. Sean gives his opinion on selection issues, the club game and comparisons between the game now and when he was playing.It was a fascinating, intellectual and enjoyable half hour for Matt and I and we hope that you enjoy it as we certainly did!We hope you have enjoyed this start to series 4. Don't forget to check out our instagram @thetapandgo and to see our new partnership with @looseheadz where you can get 15% off with the code "tapandgo"

What a treat! Today we have been joined by Sean Fitzpatrick. Sean's a former rugby union player who represented New Zealand, and is widely regarded as one of the finest players ever to come from that country. We felt honoured that he could give up his time to come and speak to us.We chatted all things about his career to begin with, and then got onto the topic of the current All Black's set up. Sean gives his opinion on selection issues, the club game and comparisons between the game now and when he was playing.It was a fascinating, intellectual and enjoyable half hour for Matt and I and we hope that you enjoy it as we certainly did!We hope you have enjoyed this start to series 4. Don't forget to check out our instagram @thetapandgo and to see our new partnership with @looseheadz where you can get 15% off with the code "tapandgo"

Welcome back to series 4! This week Matt and I were very fortunate to be joined by Aussie 7's player and captain Nick Malouf who gave up his time to talk both Australian Rugby and the Olympics.Hearing all things Rio 2016 and looking forward to Tokyo this summer and the preparations which are underway as well as also Australian 7's and its restart since lockdown it was highly enjoyable and very fascinating for Matt and I. We can't thank Nick enough for taking time out of his very busy schedule to come talk to us.We hope you all enjoy this wonderful start to series 4. Don't forget to check out our instagram @thetapandgo and to see our new partnership with @looseheadz where you can get 15% off with the code "tapandgo"See you next week for more rugby chat with Matt and I and an unbelievable guest from down under.

Welcome back to series 4! This week Matt and I were very fortunate to be joined by Aussie 7's player and captain Nick Malouf who gave up his time to talk both Australian Rugby and the Olympics.Hearing all things Rio 2016 and looking forward to Tokyo this summer and the preparations which are underway as well as also Australian 7's and its restart since lockdown it was highly enjoyable and very fascinating for Matt and I. We can't thank Nick enough for taking time out of his very busy schedule to come talk to us.We hope you all enjoy this wonderful start to series 4. Don't forget to check out our instagram @thetapandgo and to see our new partnership with @looseheadz where you can get 15% off with the code "tapandgo"See you next week for more rugby chat with Matt and I and an unbelievable guest from down under.

Today we are very fortunate to be joined by one of the most remarkable and inspirational former rugby players we know. Ed Jackson had his life changed almost 4 years ago now when he dived into a swimming pool, hit his head and was paralysed from the neck down. Since then Ed has shocked everyone with his drive and determination in what has been a startling recovery.Now an ambassador for multiple charities, Ed is going against the odds and completing startling challenge after challenge. Ed talks to us about his journey and although physically his life is harder, there have been so many positives and lessons learned from this and now he is striving to do everything he can to give back and have a positive influence on society.A fascinating talk about the psychology and way Ed has gone about dealing with this and what is next for him in terms of challenges and events. We even get an exclusive about something he has planned for later this year!It was absolute privilege to have Ed on and we hope you enjoyed this as much as we did.

This week were are very happy to announce that Queensland Reds and Australian International Liam Wright drops by the podcast to talk all things him, the Reds and the Wallabies.A highly experienced man with heaps of experience. We talk all things...

Another Week of Lockdown gone. This week we are very happy to have sat down with Gloucester front row Jamal Ford Robinson. A fantastic bloke filled with all sorts of stories.We talked all things Gloucester both this season and in the past, as well as his time in Lockdown and particular his lockdown hobbies. If you haven't already seen them, please do go and search his name in tiktok, it will most definitely bring a smile to your face.We talk about his career on the whole, the successes and failures which brought up a few very interesting conversation topics including how to prep for your first game for England against the Barbarians and a tour to Argentina, as well as his views on the current debate of the championship and the premiership having experienced both promotion and relegation in his time at Bristol.This was all fascinating and really interesting to talk about. Jamal, however, has many feathers in his cap away from the game of rugby. Being someone who spends a fair amount of time on his PC playing Warzone and League of Legends, we were very interested to hear his views on the positives gaming is having on society within lockdown. Having also taken a role in e-sports, we were surprised yet interested to hear about his comparison views of physical sports and online sports. Definitely a concept we hadn't considered but will definitely from now on.We would like to extend our gratitude to Jamal for coming on and speaking so openly to us. An unbelievable gent and one who we would have back on in a heartbeat! Now it is over to you our listeners, if you have listened to the podcast you will have heard our challenge you. Please send in your entries to us @thetapandgo on instagram and we will post our favourites.Until next week, we hope all of our listeners are well and not finding lockdown or quarantine too stressful. Remember to reach out in this weird time if you are struggling, we may only be teenagers but are very happy to have a chat with any one of our listeners!

We are back - short and sweet today. Just how we like it!If you're looking for that perfect 20 minute podcast to listen to over your breakfast, or while you're enjoying an ice cold pint, this is the episode for you. Two of our panelists did exactly this! Get ready for some great insight and some comical pauses!We're very lucky to be joined by current Waratahs player Alex Newsome. Alex indulges to us, over his breakfast, about his career which has taken him from the Western Force to the Tahs. Having indulged a career with the likes of Michael Hooper we quiz Alex on what it has been like to play with the great man and what he has learnt from him. When handed the vice-captaincy last season, Alex reveals all about the tips Hoops gave himHaving gone to Australian rugby school royalty Joeys, we talk about his upbringing and the competitiveness of playing the sport from such a young age at such a high quality.Finally, we chat about his prospects for the season ahead which he is about to start. Optimistic about the youth which the Tah's have and the quality of the squad - it is clear to see that Alex can't wait to get started.A massive thank you to Alex for giving up his time to come talk to us.Don't forget to keep an eye on our instagram page @thetapandgo for more news and to see what else we have in store for you! See you soon.

Today we are very fortunate to be joined by former GB gymnast and current Harlequins winger Heather Cowell.Heather talks to us primarily about her career in professional sports and the incredible journey which she has been on and that not many can match! From winning gold in tumbling to scoring tries for table topping Harlequins it is definitely unique and not one to miss. We also discuss the rise in the women's game and the improvements which we have seen in the last 5-10 years, and Heather being fortunate enough to play at one of the standout moments at Big Game 12 at Twickenham in front of a packed out crowd. There is definitely still a lot of work to be done but its definitely a start.Unbelievably on the side of being a sports star, Heather is training to become an accountant and doing her accountancy exams. One of the big areas for improvement in the women's game is that currently only the top 28 players hold professional contracts, with the other players being semi-professional and having to ply their trade in another industry as well. This obviously has its complications and issues and Heather talks to us about how she manages her time and copes with the stress of playing rugby most weeks while managing a job in one of the hardest-working most competitive fields of work possible.A massive thank you to Heather for jumping on the podcast with us and we hope you all enjoy listening to it as much as we did recording it. A truly fascinating, one of a kind story with some fantastic stories.Don't forget to keep checking our instagram for TapAndGo news and updates.

An absolute cracker for you today - we are very lucky to be joined by current England International Tom Dunn.Tom reveals all to us about his journey to where he is today. Coming late to rugby and not making his first premiership start until the age of 24, Tom has since become a stalwart in his home town team Bath, and is an absolute monster on the field. Known as one of the best tacklers in the Bath team alongside Sam Underhill, Tom talks to us about where he thinks Bath have gone wrong this season.We learn about his mindset towards the game, and how he frequently moves in his head from the 'red room' to the 'blue room' depending on the scenario and situation he finds himself in. An insight into both personal and team psychology which was truly fascinating.Moving onto his so far short but highly successful England career, Tom talks us through the emotions he felt on that day against Italy and the nerves he had. Having been on a bench for 80 minutes before and unused by Eddie Jones, the same thoughts crossed his mind again. To find out more about this gentle giant, and an absolute gentleman please do give this a listen. One of the most enjoyable chats Matt and I have had the privilege of doing and not one to be missed.A massive thank you to Tom for giving up his valuable time to talk to us this week.

Back again with another corker of an episode. This week we're very lucky to be joined by young Charlie Atkinson of Wasps. This season has been his breakthrough seeing Charlie make his first starts for the club and completing his first 80 minutes of professional rugby and scoring his first European and Premiership points.Charlie enlightens us about what its been like in his progression from academy and school level rugby. He talks to us about that dual with Owen Farrell in the summer which ended with Charlie knocked out on the floor, and Owen red carded!As well as this, we talk about what its been like as a 18 year old living away from home and living his dream despite these weird COVID-19 times. Charlie provides fascinating, insightful and funny stories of his albeit brief but successful career and what is next for him.Massive congratulations to Charlie on his recent call up to England U20's and we wish him the best of luck for the rest of the season and thank him massively for giving up his time. P.s. if you do get an opportunity do give the video a watch to see the results of his squad fine! Trust us its worth it!

Today we're joined by current London Irish, Australia sevens and soon to be LA Giltinis player Billy Meakes.Billy talks to us about his career in Australia, in England and his thoughts looking forward about going out to the MLR to play in LA at the Colosseum. Billy also shares with us his stories from his time with the Barbarians and the crazy time he endured while playing in the famous black and white.Billy also talks to us about his extra-curricular hobbies which include yoga and how he thinks they effect and support his game, and why he finds it so relieving and helpful.A massive thanks to Billy for jumping on the podcast and we wish him the best of luck in America and hope we can have him back on soon to catch up on his latest adventure.

Happy New Year one and all! What better way to start 2021 than with a cracking podcast.Today we are very fortunate to be joined by former England 7's captain Ollie Phillips. Ollie talks to us about his career in both XV's and 7's which took him all over the world playing with the very best the world had to offer, including the likes of Jonny Wilkinson and Dan Norton. Ollie tells us stories from throughout his career which are amusing as well as insightful and give us a taste of the life of a professional sportsman competing with the very best.Since he retired from rugby Ollie has embarked on numerous adventures for various charities and in doing so has also broken Guinness World Records. He reveals all about his trip to the North Pole to play the most northern game of rugby and his Everest attempt. A fascinating and gripping listen with stories which you wouldn't hear anywhere else. A massive thanks for to Ollie for giving up his time to chat with us and we hope you all enjoy it.Finally, congratulations to the winner of our latest giveaway sponsored by teamblazers. Keep an eye out on our instagram page for more opportunities to win prizes and enter competitions.

Series 3 Ladies and Gents!! Matt and I are back with more rugby fun. In todays episode we are joined by rugby broadcasting royalty in Alex Payne. Alex started out his career at Sky getting tea and transformed into the youngest broadcaster Sky has had and has been a star for them ever since. He is also very successful in the podcast industry presenting with the likes of James Haskell and Mike Tindall.In this episode Alex talks to us about stories from within his career, his trip down under as a young runner at Sky, to the nightmare which everyone has seen at Adams Park. An entertaining and insightful episode full of funny stories and tips for the young rugby fan seeking a career in rugby broadcasting.Alex also talks to us about the current issues we see in rugby, including the latest news with regards to concussion and player safety and whether Exeter Chiefs have the potential to reach heights which no European team has before. Many thanks to Alex for giving up his valuable time to speak to us.Matt and I hope you have all had a very Happy Christmas and let's hope 2021 brings better luck for us all, and even better podcasts.

Gutted to say this is the last episode of the series but what a way to go out. Today we are joined by two more England 7's players who fill us in on the latest news coming out of England 7's.Since the RFU budget cuts have meant that England 7's have no funding for the foreseeable future, both the men and the women have taken it into their own hands to raise the money they need to be able to go to the Olympics next summer. Abi Burton and Ben Harris tell us about their experiences in the last couple months going from training for a world series return to having to switch disciplines and sign contracts with Wasps and Saracens respectively to keep their careers afloat. A talk about having to relearn how to scrum, catch and kick at the age of 20 is always going to be an entertaining one as well as getting the low down on the Saracens camp and the atmosphere within following their relegation.A great podcast to end the series with and thanks to Ben and Abi for coming on and being such amazing guests. The link for the England 7's fundraising and to find out more about their unique situation is below. If you have a spare moment please do take a look and see if there's anything you think you can do. Some awesome experiences up for grabs and make sure you're following their instagram @englandrugbysevens which is documenting the entire rebuilding of the sevens programme following redundancy.www.pledgesports.org/projects/england-rugby-sevens-road-to-tokyo/Matt and I will be back before you know it with more great guests but in the meantime don't forget to follow our instagram @thetapandgo where we're going to be holding competitions and votes and lots more as well as sneak peaks for series 3.

The Raging Bull drops by the podcast today. Phil talks world XV's, World Cup final speeches, favourite meals and that famous tour from hell. A really enjoyable podcast with a very interesting and entertaining man. Find out all about the team morale and relationship which Phil said was one of the key and defining factors of that famous 2003 success.If food is your thing Phil offers his very thorough and passionate opinions on the world of food and talks about the opening of his new restaurant no.3. Who knew a man who spent the first part of his life as a battering ram could have such a refined palate. To be fair to him who doesn't love a good ham and cheese sandwich. A massive thanks to Phil for giving up his time and hope you all enjoy!

Today we're joined by one of the greats of the game. Having won leagues in both South Africa and France and won over 30 caps with the Springboks he is one of the most decorated locks in the game. Flip talks to us about his career and the rise from schoolboy rugby to playing with SA legends such as Victor Matfield and Bakkies Botha. He also takes particular interest in the South African set up of today, and also names his favourite players in the game today. He also voices his opinion on one of the games stars who he thinks might not be everything he is said to be. Some terrific stories from our first African on the pod. Massive thanks to Flip and hope you enjoy!

Our second member of the 2003 World Cup Winning squad on the Podcast. Mr Will Greenwood gives us all of his views on the current issues in rugby, including the Owen Farrell incident, the Premiership restart and lots more.We also talk about his career and the incident in which he was unconscious for around 17 minutes. A gripping, hilarious and very funny listen. It was very generous of Will to give up his time and come onto the podcast and to also share his expertise with us!Hope you all enjoy as much as we did!

We welcome former Bath and England fly half Freddie Burns onto the podcast this week. He talks to us about his England career and the journey which he went on to get there. His club career has has taken him all over the premiership where he was won silverware over the years. He also talks to us very openly about his feelings about Bath and how his dream return to his home club was ruined by the staff and how he felt he was treated poorly.He now finds himself heading off to Japan, when quarantine allows, to play for the Shokki Shuttles and talks to us about the excitement of starting in a new continent and a different style of rugby which he believes will suit his game.A massive thanks to Freddie for giving up his time and being so open about everything which made for a very interesting pod with some amusing stories about England tours mixed in there!Technical issues meant Freddie was missing for the first half of this but this doesn't take away from what is a fantastic podcast. Enjoy!

We promise variety on the Tap and Go and today we deliver this again. We are joined today by the CEO of World Rugby Brett Gosper, he talks to us about the hectic few months world rugby have gone through to try and enable the game to continue post Covid-19. He explains the new rules which World Rugby are trialing in the coming months, the possibility of a global rugby league, how World Rugby aim to support and promote rugby in Tier 2 countries and a lot more. All fascinating issues which are explained in further depth than many will have read about before. This is definitely an episode for the rugby nuts out there, a really interesting man with some really fascinating incite into rugby away from the field.Man thanks to Brett for making time in his very busy schedule.

Today we're joined by the cornish Fijian himself Josh Matavesi. The Bath centre enlightens us on his time at both the 2015 and 2019 Rugby World Cup and how Fiji, as one of the lesser nations, go about approaching the biggest stage in world rugby and the lessons they've learnt from both times. He also talks to us about rugby in Fiji and how it unites their nation but also the major problems they face as a nation. Finally he told us about who he thought was the toughest opponent in world rugby was today and who he most enjoyed playing against. Massive thanks to Josh and we congratulate him on the amazing start he's had in the premiership restart and wish him the best of luck for the rest of the season.

Something slightly different for you this week, but by no means any less interesting and entertaining. One of my favourite episodes to date with the magician himself Archie Curzon, as the CEO of Clapham and Captain of the Clapham Falcons Archie reveals all. As a massive rugby fan himself he talks us through initiations, team trends and his views on a couple of the big issues in English rugby at the moment. He also talks to us about his favourite pass time at the Ned, his days out to Twickenham featuring a live sing a long, his dinner party line ups, and his relationship with James Haskell.As a host of his own podcast Archie was captivating and entertaining from start to finish and certainly one of the funniest podcasts to date.Not one to miss and massive thanks to the magician for giving up his time.

We're back with another 7's player this week. England stalwart Phil Burgess drops in and talks to us about how he's coped with quarantine and his thoughts for the future of the 7's series and also the developments into the creation of a British sevens side on the world series. He reveals all about Rio 2016 and winning silver as well as his preparations for Tokyo 2020 now 2021. having suffered what was believed to be a career ending injury in 2014 he enlightens us about how he fought back to be playing week in and week out and talks about that try against the US which any sevens fan will remember.We hope you enjoy this episode as we certainly did!

Welcome back to series 2 of the Tap and Go. Today we're joined by an absolute legend of the game. He is a 3 time six nations winner, winner of international try of the year, 2 time IRB world player of the year nominee and Ireland legend Jamie Heaslip. Jamie talks to us about his career at Leinster and with Ireland, What it was like to be part of such a successful side and to work under some of the worlds best coaches. He also reveals what its like to be nominated for world player of the year and who he thought should've won! Having had his career ended by injury in 2018 he also talks about he coped with this and his thoughts on the future of Irish rugby.Massive thanks to Jamie for giving up some time for us in his busy schedule for a really exciting pod.

Hey guys we're back. Matt and I are thrilled to be able to bring you another season of amazing talks with some really good guests. We promise to give you variety and we feel this season we really have! we hope you enjoy and here are some sneak peaks!

Today we're joined by former Brumbie and Wallabie Joe Tomane. Having played both Rugby League and Union in Australia he gives us his view on the differences and the link formed between the two disciplines. He was also part of the RWC 2015 squad which made it all the way to the final and so he gives us his take on the Australian success and what changed between then and now as well as giving us his view on the future of Australian rugby. More recently he has moved to the Northern Hemisphere first with Montpellier and up until recently Leinster and so he tells us what he sees as the vital differences between the North and the South in terms of styles of rugby. A fantastic bloke with fasnaiting views on the current game and a great way to see out the series. Hope you enjoy and see you all in series 2 for more rugby fun.

Welcome to the Tap and Go. On this podcast we are going to be chatting all things rugby with past and present players, coaches and pundits.Former Wallabies and Waratahs front rower Paddy Ryan stops by the podcast. He talks to us about his current career in America with San Diego and his aspirations for the upcoming season. He also talks about how he dealt with the struggles of missing out on opportunities with the Wallabies and what it was like to be coached by Michael Cheika.A front row clinic in 35 minutes, and one you wouldn't want to miss. Many thanks to Paddy for being such a good sport and offering incite you wouldn't find anywhere else.

Welcome to the Tap and Go. On this podcast we are going to be chatting all things rugby with past and present players, coaches and pundits.Today we were very fortunate to be joined by former England Skipper Will Carling. Having captained England from such a young age of 22, Will offers his incite onto what it was like playing in the era before professional rugby where balancing work and play was so crucial. In addition to this he gives his views on Englands recent performances in the World Cup as well as the Lions tour next year and who he thinks should be starting in that back line.This isn't one to miss.

Welcome to the Tap and Go. On this podcast we are going to be chatting all things rugby with past and present players, coaches and pundits.Today is an episode for all you die hard rugby players out there looking to find out how to get the edge over your opponents physically on the field as well as those coaches looking to make their team that bit stronger. Calvin Morriss gave up some of his time to talk to us about his experiences as an S&C coach working with the best. England in 2003, 07 and 2011 before moving on to Georgia in 2015, and most recently Japan in the 2019 World Cup. He also offers an incite into the differences and similarities between cycling and rugby after his worth with Team Sky. This is an episode full of exclusives and certainly one which I could not recommend more.

Welcome to the Tap and Go. On this podcast we are going to be chatting all things rugby with past and present players, coaches and pundits.Today we are extremely lucky to welcome our first 7's player to the podcast. Winner of Rookie of the year, Olympian in 2016 and now Australian regular, speedster Henry Hutchinshon dropped by for a chat. We chatted all things rugby 7's, from what its like to make your debut fresh out of high school, to the Olympic Village to scoring a sudden death game winning try in front of your home crowd. Trust me this is not a pod you want to miss.