Podcasts about first xv

Marlborough Boy's College has made headlines once more, this time for the number of “year 14s” in its First XV team. One of the top rugby schools in the South Island, the team has five year 14 students playing this season. It's led to debates around eligibility for school sports, and raised questions about the integrity of the Miles Totora Premiership. Rongotai College Principal Kevin Carter joined Piney to discuss what schools are doing to try keep a level playing field. “[Returning for year 14] has to be about the academics,” he told Piney. “I'd hate to think that there were schools out there encouraging students to come back solely to boost their sports teams.” LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive Full Show Podcast for Friday, 16 May 2025, Finance Minister Nicola Willis tells Heather why she's begrudgingly signed off on an almost 600 million dollar subsidy for film productions. Woolworths boss Pieter de Wet has hit back at the Government, saying its the cost of GST that's making New Zealand's groceries more expensive than in Australia. Auckland FC Coach Steve Corica speaks to Heather ahead of tomorrow's playoffs game against Melbourne. Plus, the Sports Huddle talks Ryan Fox' big win this week and is First XV rugby better than Super Rugby? Get the Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive Full Show Podcast every weekday evening on iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sky Sport is primed to recommence coverage of First XV rugby after a two-season absence, with live broadcasts kicking off from May 29. Sky today announced plans to broadcast up to 20 First XV fixtures this year, with nine matches confirmed to date – and all expected to draw thousands of eyeballs. However, it comes with a caveat: there are no plans to broadcast any Auckland 1A First XV matches this season, given a media ban still in force there by school principals. Gary Burchett Head of Sky Sport joined D'Arcy Waldegrave to discuss the return of First XV to our screens. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Mind On The Game we checked back in with Aaron Bowes. Aaron plays as the First XV fly-half in the Ashford Rugby Club's Men's team. He is also an old friend of VENT Founder Freddie Cocker. We first checked back in with Aaron way back when in December 2020, where we discussed how he got into rugby, the life skills it gave him including self-confidence and his friendship with Freddie, when they first met whilst studying at Sussex University together. We also discussed some bullying he went through in school because of his ears and the operation he had to pin them back which stopped the bullying and the fresh start it gave him. In Part 2, we discuss an ACL injury Aaron suffered in September 2021, at a point where he was playing his best rugby, the surgery he had to have for it in June 2022 and the recovery journey he went through for a whole year, before starting playing again in the 2023/24 season. We also discuss his desire to get back into the gym now he is fully recovered and so he avoids going through a similar injury again, and some memorable games he's played in this year and last year which helped him get his mojo back. For Aaron's continued mental health journey, we discuss the milestone of reaching 30 years old, the stress of buying a house with his partner and the role she has played on his mental health, and a recent award he received at his workplace. As always, #itsokaytovent You can listen to Part 1 of Aaron's journey here: https://soundcloud.com/venthelpuk/mind-on-the-game-aaron-bowes Support Us: Patreon: www.patreon.com/venthelpuk GoFundMe: www.gofundme.com/f/help-vent-supp…ir-mental-health Merchandise: www.redbubble.com/people/VentUK/shop Music: @patawawa - Strange: www.youtube.com/watch?v=d70wfeJSEvk

Send us a textIn this episode of the Rugby Coach Weekly Podcast, Dan Cottrell sits down with Charlie Harrison, former professional player for Bath, Bedford, Rotherham and player/coach at Doncaster, ex-Head of Rugby at Marlborough College, and now coach of the U14s at Marlborough. They discuss the transition from coaching First XV to working with younger players, the importance of game-based learning, and how to develop players beyond just their physical attributes. Charlie shares insights into structuring training sessions, managing player progression, and fostering a long-term love for the game. Key Takeaways:Transitioning from First XV to U14s: Coaching younger players requires a shift from strategy-heavy sessions to focusing on skill development and game understanding.Game-Based Learning: Small-sided games and scenario-driven training help players develop decision-making skills in realistic situations.Balancing Structure and Creativity: Encouraging players to recognise space and opportunities rather than following rigid patterns leads to more effective, instinctive play.Managing Player Progression: Developing a long-term mindset ensures players grow beyond their physical attributes, helping both early and late bloomers succeed.The Role of Set-Piece Training: While vital at higher levels, younger age groups benefit more from prioritising open play, with set-piece elements introduced gradually.Keeping Rugby Sustainable in Schools: Making rugby fun, safe, and inclusive—alongside strong communication with parents—helps maintain engagement and participation. To find out more about this podcast and many others, go to Rugby Coach WeeklyAlso, tap into the library of 4,000 pages of activities, advice, tactics and tips to help you become the best rugby coach you can be!

My guest this week is Strathmore RFC part-time business consultant - Nicol Welsh We talked about Nick's playing career, the challenges around running the Scottish National Prison Service team with no training time, some brilliant stories from Vets tours, generating a player pathway from minis and juniors to the First XV and loads of incredible insight about how to become a true Community Club, not just a club in the community. We talked about several mutually beneficial partnerships that resulted in the players eating steak and lobster post-training! This is a great episode with a ton of usable information - I hope you enjoy. LINKS Nick Welsh on X - https://x.com/NickWelsh5 Strathmore RFC - https://strathmorerugby.co.uk/ BUY ME A COFFEE Coffee helps me make more and better episodes. https://www.buymeacoffee.com/amateurrugbypodcast PATREON Join The Amateur Rugby Podcast Patreon community for some extra amateur rugby goodness! (https://patreon.com/amateurrugbypodcast) PODCAST KIT Everything I use to create, edit and produce this podcast can be found on my Creating a Podcast (https://www.amateurrugbypodcast.com/creating-a-podcast/) page. SUPPORT If you would like to support the podcast in some way then there are plenty of options on my Support the Podcast (https://www.amateurrugbypodcast.com/support/) page.

Warriors coach Cameron George has voiced disapproval with Hamilton Boys High School's approach to sport for their students. The school has told students their opportunities to play rugby for the school's champion first XV were at risk if they continued to play league as well. Cameron George says this pressure on students is 'disappointing'. "I think kids should be allowed to be kids and play sport and be happy - and make decisions later in life, if they find a path they wish to follow." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week the lads are joined by two of the Ramily's newest members! After losing their beloved London Irish - the pair found their way to OBR and have loved every moment!A moment they might have been glad to miss was last week's tense first half performance at Bishop's Strotford - which laid the way for a solid second half display and big W on the road.It wasn't just the First XV who came away smiling - the Titans did too sealing the first W of the day of the doubleheader fixture. On Sunday the colts continued the drama as they clinched victory from defeat against a very strong Ivybridge side to move on to the semi-finals of the colts cup!This weekend we look to host Leicester Lions - who hope to make it a second win against us after we lost on the road earlier in the season.COME ON YOU RAMS!Brought to you by TRACK 7 PRODUCTIONS

Seeing as we're off over the NZ summer break, we've whacked together what is (allegedly) the best 15 minutes of the podcast all year. Enjoy!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Seeing as we're off over the NZ summer break, we've whacked together what is (allegedly) the best 15 minutes of the podcast all year. Enjoy!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

More time with the TCBS as we learn about the poet G.B. Smith, the artist Rob Gilson and the results of that rugby match with the school's First XV. Folks, please visit John Garth's website at https://johngarth.co.uk to learn and read more about his incredible Tolkien work and scholarship - you can also get Tolkien and the Great War on audiobook, read by John himself. Finally, I'm proud to support John's work and would ask you to please consider doing the same at http://bit.ly/48Rhbf1.This show is part of the Spreaker Prime Network, if you are interested in advertising on this podcast, contact us at https://www.spreaker.com/show/5854727/advertisement

The lads discuss their joint Aussie and Kiwi ANZAC First XV plus sing a few Wallabies chants...SHOP AT THE PAC CLUBHOUSE https://www.pigathleticclub.comTreat yourself to a fresh pair of Budgy Smugglers https://budgysmuggler.com.au/Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Two of Auckland's biggest schools are at the centre of a first XV player eligibility debate. A teenage student made a well-being transfer from Mount Albert Grammar to King's College- but faces a two-year stand-down from first XV rugby, according to the 1A code of practice. The teen's father, Aaron Taylor, believes Mount Albert Grammar are being stubborn by not budging on the codes in place. "That's to stop poaching, and in my case, my son wasn't poached. Wasn't even in the frame for any kind of higher honours at his previous school. So they're not using any kind of discretion or common sense."  LISTEN ABOVE  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The chicks of 2022 are turning a year old and that means it's time to get their official names.. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kakapod/message

Operator of Innovative Education Consultants and former rugby player, Alwyn Poole, has penned an opinion-piece in the NZ Herald making the case for an age limit of 17 to be put in place for First XV rugby. Poole joined Simon Barnett and James Daniels to explain the rationale behind his piece. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A new documentary series is out following Ōtara's Tangaroa College first fifteen rugby team. It shows us what life is really like at a decile one school, the realities of school truancy, and how rugby and mentorship can help young men.

This is part 1 of a 2-part series This week's guest is Justin Carroll Justin is the current Director of Rugby at Valley Fort Rugby Club in Hong Kong. He is also a L4 and World Rugby Master Coach Educator. In his 26 years as a Secondary School Teacher Justin was the Director of Rugby or First XV coach at many schools and held the role of Manager Coach Education with Rugby Victoria. During this episode we spoke about the difficulties of a rugby landscape in a non-rugby country. Having skill sets transition from age group to age group Breaking bad Habits and setting up players and coaches with good technics. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/bullys-rugby-coaching/message

While many high schools across the country have decided to refuse to televise 1st XV rugby matches, Napier Boys' High thinks otherwise. Napier Boys' High has stated that they think televising the 1st XV rugby matches is good for the players' development, and have worked out a deal where one match per week is broadcast on Maori Television. Other Super 8 schools in the central North Island, such as Hastings Boys' High, will be doing something similar with their 1st XV rugby matches.  Brendon Ratcliffe, the Director of Rugby at Napier Boys' High School says that televising the matches is good for the players, as they work really hard to get to their current level. As such, Brendon argues that having the matches on TV helps them take pride in their skills. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Piney talks with the Director of rugby at St Patrick's College Silverstream to gauge the reaction to the decision to stop televising Auckland 1A school's competition. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Earlier on the show you may have heard Ken Laban passionately rejecting a proposal to scrap live broadcast of First XV rugby matches to protect young people from bullying. Former Auckland Netball Development manager Leigh Ashton who wrote The Talent Trap is familiar with pressures young athletes face, and she joins us now.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

At the end of each week, Mike Hosking takes you through the big ticket items and lets you know what he makes of it all.   Fair Pay Agreements: 3/10 "The unions look like they are winning."   The Health System: 3/10 "It's an example of one of those crises the Prime Minister should be attending to, rather than being in Antarctica, given the ED mess these past few weeks. I don't know how long Andrew Little can keep saying it's not the full-blown meltdown it so obviously is."   EV Feebate Scheme: 4/10 "There is no, can be no, and has never been a defence for subsidising people who have $75,000 for a car."   Rishi Sunak: 8/10 "Looks the goods and got there in the end."   Joe Biden: 4/10 "He said to judge him on his vigour. I think that's actually the problem. Because they are."   Netball Australia's Sponsorship Saga: 1/10 "A sad, but classic, example of all that is wrong with the modern world. It's a world where your job is less important than the virtue you're currently signalling and where selfishness beats team work. It's a disease that, as they found out, is very material."   Cruises: 7/10 "Back for the summer after far too long. And with it a sense of some normality and cash."   Adrian Rurawhe as Speaker: 7/10 "No, watching Parliament isn't for everyone. But what a sparkling improvement he is over Trevor Mallard."   Report into Kid's Physical Activity: 6/10 "A good example of how the media only goes for headlines these days. The bit about dropping kids wasn't actually the full story. The full story was, in fact, a good story. We are 9th in the world in terms of health and activity. But to know that you had to actually read the full story."   Rugby: 6/10 "Mixed week, the Black Ferns/All Blacks clash is not a good look in a world falling over itself trying to promote equality. But the First XV broadcasting call might be a bit over the top."   LISTEN ABOVE FOR MIKE HOSKING'S FULL WEEK IN REVIEWSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ken Laban has covered hundreds of First XV games, telling Tova O'Brien the decision makes 'absolutely no sense whatsoever'.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A change of direction on broadcasting Auckland school rugby - is putting the emphasis on kids' mental health. Principals of Auckland schools in the 1A First XV competition say they'll no longer live broadcast games from next year. The 12 competing schools say that screening the games has made players subject to unhealthy scrutiny off- and online. College Sport Wellington CEO Brian Dickinson says they discussed the matter two years ago to understand the issue. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Former Attorney-General Chris Finlayson and former Wellington mayor Dame Kerry Prendergast join Nick Mills for Friday Faceoff. During a fiery hour they discuss their first jobs, Fair Pay Agreements, Health New Zealand, Tory Whanau being inducted as mayor and TV and streaming coverage of Auckland First XV rugby games being scrapped. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

FROM TONY JOHNSON

FIRST WITH YESTERDAY'S NEWS (highlights from Thursday on Newstalk ZB) Wait... No... What?/Rugby Union Lip Service/Gangs and Drugs. Classic Combo/Don't Run Over Cyclists Please/Christmas SortedSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Secondary schools across Auckland have decided to put a coverage blackout on their First XV rugby games, ahead of Auckland's 1A competition. The coverage blackout includes TV airtime, as well as livestreams. This decision was implemented in order to prioritise the well-being of the school-aged rugby players. Sportstalk's D'Arcy Waldegrave says that the schools have made the right decision, as the players don't need that kind of public scrutiny or pressure placed on them. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We were shell-shocked with yesterdays news regarding First XV Rugby's TV rights. What do you think?

Today on the show, we have a solid lineup for you to check out! Highlights include: Scotty Stevenson from Spark Sport -  Rugby scheduling snafu and 1A First XV taking the competition off the airwaves. Talkback on both those topics. Kiwi Supercars driver Shane van Gisbergen ahead of the event at Surfers Paradise. LISTEN ABOVE  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kings College Assistant Coach Kevin Putt joined the programme to preview their clash against Mt Albert Grammer. LISTEN ABOVE 

LISTEN | Sports Presenter/ Reporter at Sky New Zealand Kristina Eddy joins Riccardo ahead of a jam packed weekend of live sport with NBL, NBA, Super Rugby Final, plenty of NRL matches and some big First XV games.

Welcome to another episode of 'Stories From...' where I share anecdotes, stories and interesting tidbits from my journey across the country on The Great Rugger Run.   This week there are stories from Old Alleynians where I speak with Steve Jeal about the huge number of players they have and some very famous old boys. Then I travel to Blackheath where I speak with Iain Dinning who shows me around the home changing room prior to a First XV match and Tim Brindle in the stash-laden clubhouse.   https://amateurrugbypodcast.com #rugbypodcast #amateurrugby   PODCAST KIT Everything I use to create, edit and produce this podcast can be found on my Creating a Podcast (https://www.amateurrugbypodcast.com/creating-a-podcast/) page.   SUPPORT If you would like to support the podcast in some way then there are plenty of options for you on my Support the Podcast (https://www.amateurrugbypodcast.com/support/) page.

Vorfreude, Angst, Panik: Die Gefühlslage vor dem dem wichtigsten Spiel der Saison ist diffus. Falls ihr auch so nervös seid wie wir, empfehlen wir euch zur Ablenkung diese Folge mit allem, was man zum 1. FC Köln wissen muss! Außerdem: U21, U19 und die VfB-Damen, das Transferupdate, die EM 2024 und ein mögliches Esport-Comeback! Viel Spaß beim Zuhören wünschen Sebastian und Riky

This podcast is bought to you by Ārepa - caffeine free, processed sugar free, brain drink to help cognitive performance and mental focus when your brain is under any type of pressure, fatigue or stress. To replace energy drinks, this has been designed by leading scientists and clinically proven to improve performance and focus of the brain while under any pressure/fatigue/stress (could be finishing an assignment the night before its due when you're tired right through to kicking the winning conversion in the final play). Best part? Its a complete health drink and taste like a healthier Ribena. Click Here to automatically add a 20% discount code to your order online! Or use code “HUSTLERS20 at checkout. Try it for yourself.Today we have the newest member of the Melbourne Storm on - Will WarbrickWe talk about his journey to professional rugby, from not making his school First XV, almost giving up rugby to having a breakthrough with Red Bull Ignite 7s and landing a deal with All Blacks 7s. After a whirlwind year not only has he become a silver medalist olympian - he is now the latest signing for the NRL club Melbourne Storm.This young boy from little Kawerau has a lot to teach including mental health issues and how he is learning to deal with it, and you don't want to miss it.Will is a true hustler.Podcast also available on YouTube  - Enjoy!Follow our content and keep up to date on instagram @_carlosprice & @_onethreeeightPodcast Intro Music By - YegrPodcast Cover Art By - April Yorwarth

CP Media Wednesday night live 15 September 2021 Thanks to EVO CYCLES NZ for sponsoring this podcast 7:30 – Scott Martlew Scott Martlew represented New Zealand in the recent Paralympics held in Tokyo in the 200m Kayak Sprint and 200m Outrigger Canoe Sprint. Scott sustained a thigh injury during a First XV rugby game in 2010 which then developed into an infection and subsequently over the days following lost his leg. Over the past 10 years Scott has developed into a World Class paddler and went to Tokyo as a real medal chance. Tonight we discuss his 10 year journey through to his final of the 200m KL2 Kayak Sprint event. 37:00 – Anna Grimaldi Anna Grimaldi joins the show to share with us her story and Tokyo Paralympic experience. Going in as defending T47 Long Jump champion has its benefits but also has its challenges as she dealt with the pressure and expectation to perform. “In Rio I won by accident and this time we did it on purpose” We discuss that build up, the event and her learnings from competing and succeeding at the highest level. CP MEDIA HOSTS Jess Garrett – @coached.by.jess Richard Greer – @ric.greer THANKS TO OUR AMAZING SPONSORS SUUNTO New Zealand – suuntostore.co.nz True Fleece Merino NZ nz.truefleece.com Pure Sports Nutrition – https://puresportsnutrition.com/ Coffee Culture – https://coffeeculture.co.nz/ Giant Bikes NZ – https://www.giant-bicycles.com/nz EVO Cycles – https://www.evocycles.co.nz/ Salomon NZ – https://www.salomon.com/en-nz Frontrunner Columbo – https://frontrunnercolombo.co.nz/ Team CP – Your Endurance Coaching Specialists – www.teamcp.co.nz @teamcpnz https://www.facebook.com/teamcpnz richard@teamcp.co.nz

Tom Farrow is a Physical Performance Specialist and is the Founder & Co-Director of Areté Performance, He was the Head of Physical Performance for England & Team GB 7s Men's teams Until August, when the programme was unfortunately cut due to losing funding during Coronavirus. Tom was also a Contact Skills Specialist with the Men's 7s programme and has worked in this capacity with the 2016 Team GB Women's 7s team, Tokyo Toshiba Brave, Fulham FC Academy and Richmond Rugby Club. He has previously worked as a strength and conditioning coach with the English Institute of Sport, GB Canoe, & Speedworks. Until Sept 2014, Tom was a Senior Strength & Conditioning Coach with Wasps Rugby and co-led their First XV programme. After starting his own business Tom also spent time working with the Wasps Academy programme as both a Strength & Conditioning Coach and Contact Skills Specialist. In this episode he covers: How the skill of coaching, mastery and potential drives him. How Bruce Lee was a big influence. Some unorthodox coaching influences. "Developing heroes". Chaos and order and antifragility in coaching. Learning from great coaches. You can keep up to date with Tom's work via the Areté Performance Instagram: @areteperform_hq or via their website www.arete-performance.com . As always you can keep up to date with Athletic Evolution via our website, Instagram and Twitter.

Episode 57: Andy McDonald chats to Tom Farrow a Physical Performance Specialist who is the Founder & Co-Director of Areté Performance. Until August, when the programme was unfortunately cut due to losing funding, he was the Head of Physical Performance for England & Team GB 7s Men’s teams. Tom was also a Contact Skills Specialist with the Men’s 7s programme and has worked in this capacity with the 2016 Team GB Women’s 7s team, Tokyo Toshiba Brave, Fulham FC Academy and Richmond Rugby Club. He has previously worked as a strength and conditioning coach with the English Institute of Sport, GB Canoe, & Speedworks. Until Sept 2014, Tom was a Senior Strength & Conditioning Coach with Wasps Rugby and co-led their First XV programme. After starting his own business Tom also spent time working with the Wasps Academy programme as both a Strength & Conditioning Coach and Contact Skills Specialist. In this episode Andy and Tom discuss speed and agility training and program management.   In this episode Andy and Tom discuss:  Tom’s background Starting his own business Tom’s interest in speed trainingTom’s approach to training: AccelerationMax speedChange of direction Implementing technical standards in open skill environments Program management  Where you can find Tom: Instagram TwitterLinkedInAreté Performance  SponsorInform Performance is sponsored by VALD Performance, makers of the Nordbord, Forceframe, ForeDecks and HumanTrak. VALD Performance systems are built with the high-performance practitioner in mind, translating traditionally lab-based technologies into engaging, quick, easy-to-use tools for daily testing, monitoring and training  Keep up to date with everything that is going on with the podcast by following Inform Performance on: InstagramTwitterOur Website Our Team Andy McDonaldBen Ashworth

One day late for Halloween, here's our monsters special. Spooky samples and a lot of waffle about what goes where(wolf) on a rugby First XV of m onsters. Lower your standards and get ready to hide behind the ball. Enjoy!

Coach Ian Foster and his selectors named their first All Blacks squad for 2020 this morning.The 35-man squad featured seven new faces. Here's all you need to know about the rookie All Blacks.Alex HodgmanBorn and raised in Auckland, Alex Hodgman travelled south to begin his professional career, making his debut for Canterbury in 2014. The 27-year-old prop won three Mitre 10 Cup titles with the red and blacks and notched up nine Super Rugby caps for the Crusaders before returning home to Auckland. Hodgman is a now a regular feature for the Blues and Auckland and is a powerful scrummager with a high workrate around the field.Blues prop Alex Hodgman during a clash against the Hurricanes. PhotosportQuinten StrangeA former Nelson College First XV captain, Quinten Strange is an athletic lineout forward that has been earmarked for a big future. After an impressive campaign with the New Zealand Under 20 team in 2016, Strange debuted for Tasman later that same year, playing in 11 matches and securing an Investec Super Rugby contract with the Crusaders. It looked as though his 2020 season would be cruelly ripped away with a pre-season injury, but Strange returned to make five appearances in Super Rugby Aotearoa.Quinten Strange of the Crusaders. PhotosportTupou Vaa'iA former Wesley College Head Prefect and First XV captain, Tupou Vaa'i is the latest player to etch their mark in the school's proud history of producing All Blacks. Vaa'i made his provincial debut for Taranaki as an 18 year old in 2018 and the following year made six appearances for the New Zealand Under 20 side. In 2020 Vaa'i stepped up to Super Rugby, playing all seven matches in Super Rugby Aotearoa and emerging as bright prospect which the Chiefs recognised in extending his contract through to 2023.Tupou Vaa'i in action for the Chiefs. PhotosportCullen GraceBorn in Hawera and raised in Timaru, Grace made his Super Rugby debut in 2020 and immediately caught the attention of national selectors as a hard-nosed, dynamic loose forward, with 87 tackles and 45 carries in his debut season. A thumb injury sidelined Grace for much of Super Rugby Aotearoa but he made a successful return to the field for Canterbury in their Ranfurly Shield defence against North Otago in August. Grace captained the Canterbury Under 19 side in 2018 and last year was a member of the New Zealand Under 20 side.Cullen Grace of the Crusaders. PhotosportHoskins Sotutu22-year-old loose forward Hoskins Sotutu spent most of his rugby growing up playing in the backline, emulating his father Waisake who also played for Auckland and the Blues. It was only in the later stages of his schooling that Sotutu moved to the forward pack and he has since gone on to play for the New Zealand Under 20s, Auckland in the Mitre 10 Cup and made his Super Rugby debut off the bench in 2019. This season Sotutu turned heads as a powerful ball carrier and relentless defender. He was among the competition's best with more than 100 carries and 80 tackles.Hoskins Sotutu during a Blues training session.PhotosportCaleb ClarkeCaleb Clarke was in scintillating form during Super Rugby Aotearoa and was one of the best performers for the Blues in his six appearances in 2020. The son of 1992-1998 All Black Eroni, Clarke is an explosive winger who has a knack of claiming silverware, leading Mt Albert Grammar to the National 1st XV title in 2016 and as a member of the New Zealand Under 20 team that claimed the World Championship in 2017, the Auckland Mitre 10 Cup-winning side in 2018 and this year's World Series winning All Blacks Sevens team.Caleb Clarke of the Blues on a run against the Highlanders. PhotosportWill JordanWill Jordan was one of the most talked about players in 2020, with his natural flair and x-factor a key feature in the championship-winning Crusaders backline. A product of Christchurch Boy's High School, Jordan was a member of the 2017 New Zealand Under 20 side that went on to win the World Cha...

Join Mick and Willy as they rummage around their respective tool boxes (and find out whose is bigger) to select a First XV of Tools. Tools picking tools for a ultimate 15 of the best rugby players in the world if they were tools that would fit in a fairly large toolbox. Usual drivel throughout but with a new bit. Listen and play along at home. Enjoy!

In this episodes news we cover whats fair to say is a wide range of topics from the end of the Aberdeen lockdown, Jim Corr versus Jedward, Trump, Goth Bats, and Van Morrisons pseudo science. Record Store Day 2020 is this week and we discuss some of the key releases. Biff Clyros streaming gig at Barrowlands gets a review as does their new album. Other album reviews include Fontaines DC, James Dean Bradfield and Rival Consoles. Hope you enjoy it and see you next time.

Tired out after last week's Annoyances, Mick and Willy attempt to relax with a little bit of gardening. Joined by a suitably chilled out special guest from Chicago, listen as the trio meander down a mossy path towards a First XV of Garden Vegetables. Featuring the usual digressions, laughs, quick fire sevens and The Gaffer. Does your favorite garden produce make the final XV? Listen and find out.

Listen as Mick and Willy shoehorn their pet hates into some semblance of a First XV of Annoyances. They're old, grumpy and over the covid so it's a long one this week - sit back, get comfy and moan along. A wee bit sweary this one as you might expect - but only a wee bit. Enjoy!

The pilot of the controversial Gaffcast. We've given the Gaffer his own show. Let us know what you think!

Joining Mick and Willy this week are Mark and Steve from Australian podcast "What Podcast Should I Listen to Next". Reminisce with these old friends as they stumble their way towards a First XV of boozy drinks. Some occasional swearing in this episode and the usual rambling nonsense. The Gaffer is back - listen to the end for his verdict on the lads' choices. Enjoy!

Martin Devlin chats to Reuban Thorne, former All Black captain and now part of the coaching set up at Christ College First XV, providing an insight into the quality and passion that exists in First XV Rugby in this country, and what sort of values and qualities they are trying to instil in these young men. 

A very family friendly show (no bad language - just bad puns) this week - listen as Mick and Willy manage to ruin a perfectly good First XV of Breakfasts made by Mick's niece, Catherine. The usual nonsense, a long chat about the full fry and quick fire sevens. Enjoy!

Jack Bowen is 16 years old and began his Rugby career at  Chatswood Junior Rugby Club. He later moved to Mosman and represented Northern Suburbs Juniors where he was involved in the State Championship winning side in 2018. He has twice been selected for Sydney JRU team, and then after being identified as a promising player , became a member of the NSW Gen Blue academy program. He has been selected in the 'train on' Waratahs U18 and U20 training squads. He currently attends St Ignatius College Riverview in Sydney and first represented the First XV in 2019.  

Irish Examiner rugby writers Brendan O'Brien and Simon Lewis on a World Cup weekend in disarray. Plus Tony Leen gets Ronan O'Gara's thoughts on how the quarter-final picture is shaping up, as well as his own early struggles at La Rochelle. In association with Nissan Ireland.

Sport and Recreation Minister Grant Robertson is championing participation and inclusion as part of the coalition government's plans to change the sporting landscape.Robertson spoke to NZME about his desire to get a better deal for those - such as women and people from disadvantaged socio-economic backgrounds - who can be marginalised.As a gay man who played rugby at community level, Robertson was encouraged by the public's reaction to Instagram comments from Wallabies fullback Israel Folau that homosexuals will go to hell "unless they repent of their sins and turn to God".All Blacks Brad Weber and TJ Perenara condemned the comments in April."I give credit to Brad and TJ," Robertson said."From those negative comments I think, at least in New Zealand, a more inclusive approach has emerged."Robertson also acknowledged sports clubs can galvanise communities because of the relationships they forge when people commit to exercise."We all know there have been drop off rates. Clubs struggle to get people to join but, if we want elite sportspeople, we've got to start at community level."For some there are too many barriers in place. We want to build better partnerships, which means making better connections with schools about their facilities, and ensuring they're available more often for people to use."My focus is more on the community level. The No.1 priority I've given to Sport New Zealand is getting women and girls in sport."Robertson said it was about setting out values and aspirations, like New Zealand Football achieving pay parity.He considered rugby another success story through the Black Ferns' new contracts.Robertson said the fact past players would be capped this Saturday ahead of the All Blacks-France test at Eden Park was "a recognition of women's rugby that's probably a decade overdue"."Rather than saying we can't do it because of [a lack of] advertising revenue, let's work on what we can do. [New Zealand Rugby chief executive] Steve Tew and I have had meetings and we're making progress."The next step would be some form of professional or Super Rugby competition for women. We probably have to start small and build a competition that would attract interest and the revenue the rugby union want."Robertson was conscious of extending that inclusive approach into the community."For instance, Aktive [the Auckland Sport and Recreation charitable trust] is doing good work growing participation by the Asian and Pacific Island communities."That way we get good outcomes for lifestyle reasons, and we might discover the next Dame Valerie Adams, too. That's the only way you'll create opportunities for elite sportspeople."The culture of First XV rugby with its television coverage, and the recent involvement of Drug Free Sport New Zealand, had raised a red flag."I have concerns at a personal level with pressure coming on those athletes. They love the fact they're on TV, but it does up the ante."We've got to get a balance in that and learn lessons from other jurisdictions, like the US. There is also a huge role for players associations because most young sportspeople need other jobs and careers as they go on in life."Don't do something in your teenage years to be the fittest, fastest and strongest that will destroy your future down the line." 

Sport and Recreation Minister Grant Robertson is championing participation and inclusion as part of the coalition government's plans to change the sporting landscape.Robertson spoke to NZME about his desire to get a better deal for those - such as women and people from disadvantaged socio-economic backgrounds - who can be marginalised.As a gay man who played rugby at community level, Robertson was encouraged by the public's reaction to Instagram comments from Wallabies fullback Israel Folau that homosexuals will go to hell "unless they repent of their sins and turn to God".All Blacks Brad Weber and TJ Perenara condemned the comments in April."I give credit to Brad and TJ," Robertson said."From those negative comments I think, at least in New Zealand, a more inclusive approach has emerged."Robertson also acknowledged sports clubs can galvanise communities because of the relationships they forge when people commit to exercise."We all know there have been drop off rates. Clubs struggle to get people to join but, if we want elite sportspeople, we've got to start at community level."For some there are too many barriers in place. We want to build better partnerships, which means making better connections with schools about their facilities, and ensuring they're available more often for people to use."My focus is more on the community level. The No.1 priority I've given to Sport New Zealand is getting women and girls in sport."Robertson said it was about setting out values and aspirations, like New Zealand Football achieving pay parity.He considered rugby another success story through the Black Ferns' new contracts.Robertson said the fact past players would be capped this Saturday ahead of the All Blacks-France test at Eden Park was "a recognition of women's rugby that's probably a decade overdue"."Rather than saying we can't do it because of [a lack of] advertising revenue, let's work on what we can do. [New Zealand Rugby chief executive] Steve Tew and I have had meetings and we're making progress."The next step would be some form of professional or Super Rugby competition for women. We probably have to start small and build a competition that would attract interest and the revenue the rugby union want."Robertson was conscious of extending that inclusive approach into the community."For instance, Aktive [the Auckland Sport and Recreation charitable trust] is doing good work growing participation by the Asian and Pacific Island communities."That way we get good outcomes for lifestyle reasons, and we might discover the next Dame Valerie Adams, too. That's the only way you'll create opportunities for elite sportspeople."The culture of First XV rugby with its television coverage, and the recent involvement of Drug Free Sport New Zealand, had raised a red flag."I have concerns at a personal level with pressure coming on those athletes. They love the fact they're on TV, but it does up the ante."We've got to get a balance in that and learn lessons from other jurisdictions, like the US. There is also a huge role for players associations because most young sportspeople need other jobs and careers as they go on in life."Don't do something in your teenage years to be the fittest, fastest and strongest that will destroy your future down the line." 

Jason Bird, manager of the Hastings Boys first fifteen rugby team, who said about half of his squad has signed with player agents.LISTEN: NZ Sevens coach Clarke Laidlaw addresses Nanai-Seturo tug-of-warHe also thinks 15-16 year old boys aren’t mature enough to fully understand the ramifications of signing professional contracts.LISTEN ABOVE AS JASON BIRD SPEAKS WITH THE RADIO SPORT BREAKFAST

Jason Bird, manager of the Hastings Boys first fifteen rugby team, who said about half of his squad has signed with player agents.LISTEN: NZ Sevens coach Clarke Laidlaw addresses Nanai-Seturo tug-of-warHe also thinks 15-16 year old boys aren’t mature enough to fully understand the ramifications of signing professional contracts.LISTEN ABOVE AS JASON BIRD SPEAKS WITH THE RADIO SPORT BREAKFAST

Episode 15 - The First XV That's right, we've made a whole team's worth of episodes, and we're sure you'll forgive us the cheesy title! We review ALL the rugby - Pro14, Rugby Championship, Premiership, Top 14, plus a quick look at the Mitre 10 and Currie Cups. Iain lets you inside the enclave as he attempts to find some quiz music to go alongside this weeks trivia section! As usual, we round out with the news and transfers - Pat Lambie grabbing the headlines here. And finally a huge shout out to 12Harkey who left us our first proper rating and review on iTunes. We'd really appreciate if you could head on over there to do the same too. As always, soundcloud and iTunes are the places to listen to us, and if you want to get in touch with us, you can do so on Twitter @WATPUpod and on Facebook by searching for What About The Pick Up?!

This week we wrap up the #KenyaCup season by discussing the First Xv by osbke.com and we talk about the latest #KenyaSimbas call ups... You can Tweet us @BenchWarmerzKe, @AsegoLav & @JazzIzMonster Kindly press the Like button on our FB Page https://www.facebook.com/BenchwarmerzKE/ Also check out our YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5QXQ1zgvZf6SoJK-08NUiA or simply drop us an email BenchWarmerzKE@gmail.com And we are iTunes too https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/benchwarmerzke/id1166445400 And don’t forget IG https://www.instagram.com/benchwarmerzke/ Music Credit: All the Way Up- Fat Joe & Remy Ma

GIVE YOUR BUSINESS A NETWORKING KICK START. The Sharks 500 club, sponsored by O2, is a unique chance for businesses to feel part of Sale Sharks, enjoy world class rugby and make the most of valuable business networking opportunities. As your business grows, so can your status within the 500 club. Squad or Impact level membership may well suit your business today, but the idea of First XV status and its intimate involvement with players, management and staff may be where you want to be heading in the future. Becoming a Sharks 500 Club member will give you the opportunity to promote your company and meet other like-minded individuals. You will have the chance to attend all 500 Club events during the season and hear from speakers in the world of sport and business present on various topics and debates.