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Rugby League Outsiders Podcast

Rugby League Outsiders Podcast
Author: Craig Williams & Karl Walker
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© 2025 Rugby League Outsiders Podcast
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Giving Rugby League a Voice in the MidlandsWelcome to Rugby League Outsiders, where two passionate fans and ageing players, Karl Walker and Craig Williams, bring their love for the game to the Midlands.After relocating to the Midlands, Karl & Craig were disappointed to find that rugby league wasn’t as prevalent as it was in their former homes.However, instead of accepting defeat, Karl and Craig saw this as an opportunity to promote the sport and make it more accessible for others in the Midlands. They started the Rugby League Outsiders podcast to shed light on the hidden gems of rugby league in the region and to give a voice to those who may have been overlooked.Tune in every week as Karl and Craig share their insights and experiences, interview players and coaches, and delve into all things rugby league. From local clubs to the latest news, they’ve got you covered.Join the Rugby League Outsiders community today and help spread the word about this amazing sport in the Midlands
50 Episodes
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Unbeaten Beginnings: The Aston Warriors Rugby League Journey In this engaging episode of the Rugby League Outsiders podcast, hosts Craig and Karl welcome key figures behind forming the Aston Warriors Rugby League club in the Midlands. Featuring insights from Mark Almond on the team's incredible unbeaten debut season and his unique background, along with heartwarming stories shared by Mark about the community effort driving the club’s success. Discover the challenges of establishing a ...
In this episode of Rugby League Outsiders, hosts Craig and Karl interview Conrad Anderson, the media officer for the North Wales Crusaders. Conrad shares his role and responsibilities on match day, his passion for rugby league, and insights on managing team media. He discusses the challenges community clubs face, the excitement around the club's potential takeover, and advice for media officers in professional clubs. Dive into the world of North Wales Crusaders and discover what...
In this compelling episode of Rugby League Outsiders, hosts Craig and Karl welcome Rich Squires, head coach of the Aston Warriors, alongside player Jules, to discuss the origin and evolution of the team from a rugby union background. They delve into Rich's rugby journey and the transition from rugby union to league, sharing the team's milestone of winning their first game. Additionally, the episode explores the vibrant community-building efforts of Aston Rugby Union, their ethos, the challeng...
Jonathan Burgess: Grassroots Rugby League Development in North Wales Join Craig and Karl from Rugby League Outsiders as they interview Jonathan Burgess, the Community Development Officer at North Wales Crusaders. Learn about the extensive efforts to foster rugby league at the grassroots level, the success of junior hubs, and unique community projects aimed at promoting the sport. Jonathan shares his journey, the growth in player participation, and the development strategies that aim to make ...
Kyle Bonsor: Overcoming Adversity and Staying in the Game In this compelling episode of Rugby League Outsiders, Craig and Karl converse with Kyle Bonser, a seasoned rugby league player and referee. Kyle relates his rich journey from playing with Coventry Bears to engaging with various Midlands and New York Knights teams. The episode covers his transition from player to coach and referee; the adversities faced due to multiple concussions, and his enduring contributions to the ru...
Exclusive Interview with North Wales Crusaders Chairman Ian Edwards - Rugby League Outsiders In this episode of Rugby League Outsiders, hosts and avid North Wales Crusaders fans, Craig and Karl, sit down with Ian Edwards, Chairman of the club. Edwards discusses the club's exciting future, the recent fundraising campaign, their community efforts, and his personal journey with rugby league. Additionally, the conversation touches on the club's heritage, future goals, and the notable impa...
Exclusive Interview with Josh Antoniou: Inside North Wales Crusaders' Big News Join Craig and Karl on this episode of the Rugby League Outsiders as they interview Josh Antoneu, the commercial director of North Wales Crusaders. Josh shares his journey with the club, the challenges of working in North Wales, and the exciting big news about new ownership and investment. Discover how the Crusaders are building strong community partnerships and their plans for the future, including infrast...
Rugby League Heroes: Telford Raiders Erin & Rosie’s Story In this Rugby League Outsiders podcast episode, hosts Craig and Karl welcome Erin and Rosie from the Telford Raiders. The conversation delves into their journey from Rugby Union to Rugby League, sharing insights on the differences between the two sports and their experiences playing with and against top teams. They also discuss the importance of camaraderie, the impact of intense training, and the role of social medi...
Join us on this week’s episode of Rugby League Outsiders as we dive into the exhilarating world of Try Tag Rugby with Simon Groves, a passionate player from Coventry & Warwickshire. Discover Simon’s fascinating journey from his early rugby days in Manchester to representing Great Britain in international tag tournaments. Simon shares insights into the history of rugby league, the shift to playing tag rugby, and his involvement in developing the sport for over 50s players. Plus, don...
There's something magical about the combination of sports and music that elevates the human spirit. With this belief, the inaugural Midlands 9s Rugby League Tournament and Music Festival was born—an event that promised to mix the adrenaline of rugby league with the soul-soothing melodies of live music. And, oh, what an adventure it was! In the weeks leading up to the festival, the tension and excitement were tangible. The brainchild of Craig and Karl, hosts of the "Rugby League Outsiders" pod...
This episode captures the remarkable journeys of Kevin Rudd from the Elmbridge Eagles. From player to coach, Rudd's involvement spans community clubs, professional levels, and international development, emphasising inclusivity and grassroots growth in the sport. On the other hand, the coach shares insights on coaching boys and girls, the cultural richness of rugby league in France, and the challenges and successes in expanding the sport globally, showcasing the personal connections g...
Rebels Reborn: The Worcester Resurgence With Matthew Robinson & Alex Paynter Join us on a thrilling ride with the Rugby League Outsiders podcast as we delve into the inspiring saga of the Worcester Rebels. In this episode, we sit down with Craig and Karl, alongside their exceptional guests, Matthew Robinson and Alex Paynter from the Worcester Rebels. Discover the remarkable transformation from the ashes of the Worcester Jaguars to the rise of the Rebels, a tale of ambition, friendship, a...
Richard Jones' Rugby League Journey: From a childhood fan due to his father's influence to moving to London for work, Richard's lifelong engagement with Rugby League led to significant roles within the Brixton Bulls and the London Rugby League Foundation. Brixton Bulls' Inclusive Culture: Emphasised as possibly the most diverse rugby club in the country, Brixton Bulls showcases inclusivity, with voluntary membership fees ensuring the sport is accessible to all, regardless of socio-economic b...
Rugby League in the Capital With Stephen Guan & Nash Cohen The discussion encapsulates a broad and comprehensive perspective on the development and future of Rugby League, particularly in London and the southern regions of England. The final segment offered several key insights and reflections: Memorable Experiences and Wembley's Significance: Both guests share their unique memories related to Rugby League, underscoring the significance of Wembley Stadium and its atmosphere in sparking t...
Jed Corcoran, head coach of the Irish Rugby League. In this St. Patrick's Day special, Jed opens up about his incredible journey from moving to England at a young age to leading Ireland's national team. He shares the struggles and triumphs of his playing days, the honour of playing alongside legends, and his transition into a coaching role close to his heart. Discover Jed's relentless pursuit of his dream, his passionate challenge to the status quo, and how he's shaping the future of rugby i...
Welcome to a special episode of the "Rugby League Outsiders" where we dive deep into the heart and soul of Irish Rugby League, featuring an exclusive talk with Matt Kennerson, the inspirational head coach of the Irish Rugby League women's team. Join us as we explore Matt's personal journey from falling out of love with the sport to leading Ireland's charge towards the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. Alongside Matt, senior players Clodagh Dunne and Alex McGuinness share their exhilara...
#internationalwomensday Special | Women in Rugby League With London Bronco Siobhan Longdon-Hughes In this episode, join hosts Craig and Karl as we delve into the captivating world of rugby league from the unique perspective of London. We have the pleasure of hosting an extraordinary guest, Siobhan Longdon-Hughes, a dynamic player for the London Broncos. Siobhan shares her incredible journey from a ballet dancer to a rugby league player, offering insights into the challenges and triump...
Varsity Rugby League Showdown: Oxford vs Cambridge | Rivalry Renewed! Welcome to the Rugby League Outsiders, where we delve into the intense varsity game between Oxford and Cambridge. ✅ Experience the electric atmosphere as rivals collide on the rugby field. ✅ Get insights from coaches and players on both sides, as they discuss the significance of the match and their preparations. ✅ Learn about the historic rivalry between these prestigious universities, dating back centuries. ✅ Discover the...
In this episode, we are joined by the indomitable Graham Berry for an inspiring conversation that delves into the heart of charity and the boundless spirit of rugby league camaraderie. Graham, a dedicated ultramarathon runner, recounts his incredible fundraising endeavours for the MNDA, including participating in the Leeds Rob Burrow Marathon and the TransPennine Ultra. From the overwhelming support of rugby league icons like Rob Burrow and Kevin Sinfield to the breathtaking landscapes encoun...
Rugby League Season Kickoff: Predictions, Signings, and Man of Steel! Welcome to the Rugby League Outsiders podcast! In this episode, hosts Craig and Karl dive deep into the exciting world of Super League as they launch into the new season. From discussing standout signings like coach Sam Burgess and Matt Moylan to making bold predictions for each team's performance, this episode is packed with insights, analysis, and plenty of banter. Join us as we break down upcoming fixtures...