Rugby Unity

Women’s rugby is entering a new era — and Japan is right in the middle of it.In this episode of Rugby Unity in Japan, David Pembroke speaks with Lesley McKenzie, Head Coach of Japan’s Women’s 15s team, about how far the program has come and what must happen next to unlock its full potential. From pathways and professionalisation to international partnerships and community investment, this is a roadmap for the future of the women’s game.Lesley brings valuable insight from coaching in New Zealand and Japan, the lessons of two Women’s Rugby World Cups, and why collaboration across the Asia-Pacific is critical.Also in this episode:Rebuilding Japan’s 15s program from the ground upAustralia’s stalled progress in the women’s gameWhy Japan’s fast, high-skill style is so exciting to watchThe 2019 Rugby World Cup’s lasting impactCanada’s rise and expanding rugby audienceHow investment in coaching changes everythingPLUS: Why community rugby must be protected to grow the global game.Want more from Rugby Unity? Subscribe to our Substack for exclusive content, blogs, behind-the-scenes insights and full podcast access — all in one place: Rugby Unity | SubstackOne sport. Millions of voices. This is Rugby Unity.📧 Get in touch: info@rugbyunity.com.auThanks to Eleven labs for providing a grant to Rugby Unity so that we can use their world leading software.TikTok | Instagram | YouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Japan is fast becoming one of rugby’s most exciting frontiers — but is it ready to stand among the world’s elite?In this episode, David Pembroke sits down with Glenn Delaney, Head Coach of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Sagamihara DynaBoars, to discuss Japan’s rapid rise, its unique rugby culture, and what the nation brings to the global game. From the passion of local fans to the challenge of developing homegrown talent, Delaney shares an insider’s view of how Japan can secure its place as a true Tier 1 powerhouse.They also look ahead to Japan v Australia, exploring how both sides’ attacking DNA could make for one of the most entertaining contests of the season.Also in this episode:The legacy of the 2019 Rugby World Cup and Japan’s post-COVID resurgenceHow League One is attracting world-class talent and coachesThe difference between Japan’s player development and the New Zealand/European systemsWhat sets Japanese fans apart — loyalty, connection, and respectThe surge of women’s rugby and how it’s changing the gameJapan’s upcoming clashes with Australia, South Africa, Ireland, and WalesPLUS: Glenn’s vision for rugby’s global future — and why Japan’s success matters to everyone who loves the game.Want more from Rugby Unity? Subscribe to our Substack for exclusive content, blogs, behind-the-scenes insights and full podcast access — all in one place: Rugby Unity | SubstackOne sport. Millions of voices. This is Rugby Unity.📧 Get in touch: info@rugbyunity.com.auThanks to Eleven labs for providing a grant to Rugby Unity so that we can use their world leading software.TikTok | Instagram | YouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to Rugby Unity in Japan — a special international series exploring rugby’s global future.Host David Pembroke is joined by Will Genia, former Wallaby and now coach in Japan, to discuss how Japanese rugby has evolved into one of the sport’s most exciting frontiers.From the country’s grassroots tournaments to Eddie Jones’ revitalised national team, Genia shares rare insights into Japan’s unique rugby culture, its world-class talent, and its growing influence on the global game.Also in this episode:The family-first spirit driving Japanese rugbyHow League One clubs could join global competitionsEddie Jones’ blueprint for Japan’s next generationWill Genia’s lessons from transitioning to coachingWhy Japan’s grassroots engagement outshines many rugby nationsThe cultural respect that sets Japan apart on and off the fieldPLUS: Rugby Unity discovers how this nation can help secure rugby’s global future.Want more from Rugby Unity? Subscribe to our Substack for exclusive content, blogs, behind-the-scenes insights and full podcast access — all in one place: Rugby Unity | SubstackOne sport. Millions of voices. This is Rugby Unity.📧 Get in touch: info@rugbyunity.com.auThanks to Eleven labs for providing a grant to Rugby Unity so that we can use their world leading software. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

England are deserved 2025 Women’s Rugby World Champions.The Red Roses claimed the title with a commanding 33–13 win over Canada in front of a world record 81,885 fans at Twickenham. But it was more than a victory —England set a new standard for the Women’s game.In this episode of Rugby Unity, host David Pembroke and co-host Bella McKenzie unpack the final, reflect on the stars of the tournament and discuss “where to from here”?. From Hannah Botterman’s dominance in tight to Zoe Harrison’s ruthlessly efficient kicking game, England put Canada in the hurt locker and threw away the key. With the premier domestic Women’s Rugby competition set to recommence in England in late October, the question now is how do Canada, France, the Wallaroos, South Africa, the Black Ferns and others run down Red Roses?Also in this episode:England v Canada — How defence won the World CupZoe Harrison, Hannah Botterman & Sophie de Goede - standout performersBlack Ferns beat France in the bronze medal matchRecord-breaking crowds, TV audiences & social media statsThe first-ever Rugby Unity Content Creators Cup winner revealedWhat’s next: Domestic leagues, Super Rugby & the new World XV competition.PLUS: Why keeping fans engaged between tournaments is the key to rugby’s future growth.Want more from Rugby Unity? Subscribe to our Substack for exclusive content, blogs, behind-the-scenes insights and full podcast access — all in one place: Rugby Unity | SubstackOne sport. Millions of voices. This is Rugby Unity.📧 Get in touch: info@rugbyunity.com.auThanks to Eleven labs for providing a grant to Rugby Unity so that we can use their world leading software.TikTok | Instagram | YouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

England v Canada – the Women’s Rugby World Cup Final is here.England have won 62 of their last 63 Tests and arrive at Twickenham as overwhelming favourites. But Canada’s fearless run, capped by a stunning semifinal demolition of New Zealand has made them a team to watch and a team to fear.In this episode, David Pembroke and Wallaroo Bella McKenzie take your inside the World Cup Final. From tactical battles to pressure moments, they reveal how this final will come down to discipline, set-piece execution and the match turning brilliance of players like Sophie de Goede, Hannah Botterman, and Ellie Kildunne.Also in this episode:Canada’s rise under coach Kevin Rouet – genius or just great timing?England’s set-piece dominance vs Canada’s pick and go threat?Key matchups: Mo Hunt v Claire Pelletier at scrumhalfThe battle of the Back three: Ellie Kildunne against Canada’s sevens-inspired attackPredictions and scorelines – Can Canada really pull it off?Third-place playoff preview: New Zealand v FrancePLUS: refereeing milestones, the rise of women’s rugby commentators, and why the 2029 World Cup in Australia will be the biggest yet.Want more from Rugby Unity? Subscribe to our Substack for exclusive content, blogs, behind-the-scenes insights and full podcast access — all in one place: Rugby Unity | SubstackOne sport. Millions of voices. This is Rugby Unity.📧 Get in touch: info@rugbyunity.com.au TikTok | Instagram | YouTubeThanks to Eleven labs for providing a grant to Rugby Unity so that we can use their world leading software. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ever wondered what it takes to stage a World Cup — from sold-out stadiums to making athletes global stars?Behind the record crowds, the roaring fans, and the dramatic matches lies years of bold vision and fearless decisions.Today, host David Pembroke speaks with Sarah Massey, Managing Director of the Women’s Rugby World Cup, about how England 2025 became a once-in-a-generation moment for rugby — and a blueprint for the future of global sport.From sold-out stadiums and a brand-new trophy to an all-female leadership team driving change, Sarah reveals the inside story of how a sporting event can inspire millions, transform communities, and leave a lasting legacy.Also in this episode:Record-breaking ticket sales and attendance milestonesAthletes at the centre — facilities, storytelling, and social media reachDiversity and inclusion at every level of deliveryHow host cities and communities reaped the benefitsThe volunteers, the fans, and the atmosphere that set new standardsPLUS: the future of women’s rugby, what the sold-out Twickenham final means for the game, and why this World Cup could change sport forever.Want more from Rugby Unity? Subscribe to our Substack for exclusive content, blogs, behind-the-scenes insights and full podcast access — all in one place: Rugby Unity | SubstackOne sport. Millions of voices. This is Rugby Unity.📧 Get in touch: info@rugbyunity.com.au TikTok | Instagram | YouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Women’s Rugby World Cup has reached the semifinals — and Rugby Unity is on the pulse.Host David Pembroke is joined by Bella McKenzie to break down all the action: from England’s set-piece dominance and Ireland’s heartbreak, to South Africa pushing New Zealand and Canada powering past the Wallaroos. With record-breaking crowds, global TV audiences, and unforgettable performances, the tournament is surging into its biggest weekend yet.David and Bella go deep on the tactical battles ahead, the off-field controversies shaping the game, and who they believe will rise to the moment in Bristol and beyond.Also in this episode:England v Scotland — why the Red Roses remain unstoppableIreland v France — heartbreak, controversy, and a 12-week banSouth Africa v Black Ferns — innovation meets fitness gapCanada v Wallaroos — Sophie de Goede’s masterclassSemifinal previews — Canada v NZ + England v FranceWallaroos’ coaching and contracts dilemmaPLUS: Awards predictions, player pathways, referee insights, and why women’s rugby is poised for its biggest leap forward.Want more from Rugby Unity? Subscribe to our Substack for exclusive content, blogs, behind-the-scenes insights and full podcast access — all in one place: Rugby Unity | SubstackOne sport. Millions of voices. This is Rugby Unity.📧 Get in touch: info@rugbyunity.com.au TikTok | Instagram | YouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Women’s Rugby World Cup quarterfinals have arrived — and the Wallaroos are preparing for their biggest challenge yet against Canada.David Pembroke is joined by Bella McKenzie to review Australia’s brave performance against England, analyse the key tactical battles, and preview the quarterfinals across the tournament.From England’s nervy first half to the Black Ferns’ dominance and France’s resurgence, this episode dives into the biggest stories shaping the knockout stages — and why the future of women’s rugby has never looked brighter.Also in this episode:Wallaroos v Canada — can Australia deliver 80 minutes?England v Scotland — is John Mitchell under pressure?Fiji v Wales — unstructured brilliance stuns the Six NationsUSA v Samoa — big win but no quarterfinalsJapan v Spain — resilience rewarded with a famous victoryItaly v Brazil — big finish for the AzzurreNew Zealand v Ireland — Black Ferns hit scary formFrance v South Africa — Pauline Bourdon-Sans running the showPLUS: record-breaking crowds, World Rugby’s investment plan, and how equity and inclusion are reshaping the Women’s World Cup experience.Want more from Rugby Unity? Subscribe to our Substack for exclusive content, blogs, behind-the-scenes insights and full podcast access — all in one place: Rugby Unity | SubstackOne sport. Millions of voices. This is Rugby Unity.📧 Get in touch: info@rugbyunity.com.au TikTok | Instagram | YouTubeThanks to Elevenlabs for providing a grant to Rugby Unity so that we can use their world leading software. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Wallaroos are through to the quarterfinals of the Women’s Rugby World Cup — but the challenge only gets bigger. After pushing England harder than most, can Australia go one step further against Canada and keep their dream alive?In this special edition of Rugby Unity, Bella McKenzie is joined by her teammate and co-captain Emily Chancellor live from the UK. Together, they reflect on the highs and lows of the England clash, unpack the tactical battles to come, and share how belief, mental skills, and set-piece improvements are shaping the Wallaroos’ campaign.Also in this episode:England v Wallaroos — pressure, pride, and missed chancesAttack woes — 9 entries, just 1 tryEmily on leadership from the benchCanada’s strengths and how to counter themSubstitutions and rotation — what worked and what didn’tPLUS: How this World Cup could be a turning point for women’s rugby in Australia, building momentum toward a home World Cup in 2029.Want more from Rugby Unity? Subscribe to our Substack for exclusive content, blogs, behind-the-scenes insights and full podcast access — all in one place: Rugby Unity | SubstackOne sport. Millions of voices. This is Rugby Unity.📧 Get in touch: info@rugbyunity.com.au TikTok | Instagram | YouTubeThanks to Elevenlabs for providing a grant to Rugby Unity so that we can use their world leading software. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Women’s Rugby World Cup is reaching fever pitch — and the stakes couldn’t be higher.David Pembroke and Wallaroos star Bella McKenzie look back on a thrilling week that saw the Wallaroos draw 31–all with the USA, South Africa notch their first-ever win over a top-10 side, and England continue to set the standard as tournament favourites.Now, with everything on the line against the Red Roses, Bella unpacks the Wallaroos’ discipline issues, the tactical adjustments they’ll need, and what it will take to deliver their strongest performance yet on the world stage.Also in this episode:Canada v Scotland and why Canada look like genuine contendersUSA v Samoa and the quarterfinal equation for AustraliaWales v Fiji and the chance of a Pacific upsetNew Zealand v Ireland — could this be the game of the round?France v South Africa and why the Springbok women are on the risePLUS: The rise of fan engagement in women’s rugby, record-breaking crowd numbers, and why the men’s game could learn a thing or two.Want more from Rugby Unity? Subscribe to our Substack for exclusive content, blogs, behind-the-scenes insights and full podcast access — all in one place: Rugby Unity | SubstackOne sport. Millions of voices. This is Rugby Unity.📧 Get in touch: info@rugbyunity.com.au TikTok | Instagram | YouTubeThanks to Elevenlabs for providing a grant to Rugby Unity so that we can use their world leading software. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Can the Wallaroos pull off the biggest upset of the Rugby World Cup?This weekend, Australia takes on world number one England in a do-or-die clash at the Rugby World Cup — and co-captain Emily Chancellor joins host Bella McKenzie to take us inside the build-up.Emily also reflects on the 31–31 draw with the USA — what went right, what went wrong, and the lessons learned heading into this weekend.In this episode:Why England aren’t “completely unbeatable.”The mindset shifts giving the Wallaroos belief.Key areas to improve: discipline, tackling, and attacking shape.How Australia plans to disrupt England’s rhythm.The grind of preparation — from training sessions to long bus rides.If you believe in upsets, this is the one to listen to.Want more from Rugby Unity? Subscribe to our Substack for exclusive content, blogs, behind-the-scenes insights and full podcast access — all in one place: Rugby Unity | SubstackOne sport. Millions of voices. This is Rugby Unity.📧 Get in touch: info@rugbyunity.com.au TikTok | Instagram | YouTubeThanks to Elevenlabs for providing a grant to Rugby Unity so that we can use their world leading software. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Wallaroos are making history at the Women’s Rugby World Cup — and we’ve got a front-row seat.In this Rugby Unity special, Bella McKenzie sits down with co-captain Emily Chancellor live from England. Fresh off a record win over Samoa, Emily lifts the lid on what it felt like to be part of the Wallaroos’ biggest World Cup victory, the emotion of playing in front of partisan crowds, and how the squad is keeping spirits high off the field.They look ahead to the crucial clash with the USA, breaking down the threats the Eagles pose, the Wallaroos’ areas for improvement, and the team’s mantra of fun, fast, family heading into knockout territory.In this episode:Wallaroos’ record win over SamoaEmily’s 29-tackle effortLife inside the World Cup squadCulture night highlightsGrowth of the women’s game in EnglandAreas the Wallaroos must improveWant more from Rugby Unity? Subscribe to our Substack for exclusive content, blogs, behind-the-scenes insights and full podcast access — all in one place: Rugby Unity | SubstackOne sport. Millions of voices. This is Rugby Unity.📧 Get in touch: info@rugbyunity.com.au TikTok | Instagram | YouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

England dominant, the Wallaroos spank Samoa while the USA are circling.The sun is shining, the stands are full, and the first round was sensational. The Women’s Rugby World Cup is up and running in England and Rugby Unity host David Pembroke and Wallaroos fly-half Bella McKenzie are on hand in this episode to take you inside the biggest stories of the opening weekend.The USA made the favourites England work hard for the first 30 minutes before a yellow card cruelled their momentum. Australia scored plenty of points against Samoa while Scotland were super impressive in dealing with a disappointing Wales. France’s performance against Italy suggested they have a lot to spare while the hot stepping Jorja Miller from New Zealand was box office. It was all action and despite the scoreline blowouts, it was a super impressive start to the tournament.The conversation pulls no punches: Can Scotland make the quarters? Are the French a sleeping giant? Can the Black Ferns hit top gear in time? And how do the Wallaroos match the muscle of the USA in what is a round two do-or-die clash?Women’s rugby has never looked sharper.Want more from Rugby Unity? Subscribe to our Substack for exclusive content, blogs, behind-the-scenes insights and full podcast access — all in one place: Rugby Unity | SubstackOne sport. Millions of voices. This is Rugby Unity.📧 Get in touch: info@rugbyunity.com.au TikTok | Instagram | YouTube  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The whistle’s about to blow. Six weeks. Sixteen nations. Packed stadiums, global attention and history on the line. The 10th Women’s Rugby World Cup in England is here — and it promises to change the game forever.In this brand-new special series, David Pembroke is joined by Wallaroos fly-half Bella McKenzie to break down all the action. From Bella’s personal story of heartbreak and resilience to the blueprint shaping the future of rugby, this episode dives into the biggest talking points:Who to watch: Portia Woodman-Wickliffe, Georgia Miller, Maddie Feaunati, Maya Stewart, Sylvia Brunt, Ellie Kildunne and more.Pool-by-pool previews and the Wallaroos’ shot at making it out of a brutal draw.Round 1 matches under the spotlight: England v USA, Australia v Samoa, Canada v Fiji, France v Italy.Why women’s rugby is no longer “emerging” — it’s driving the prosperity of the whole game.This isn’t just about women’s rugby. It’s about the future of rugby union worldwide. And it’s here now.We’ve also launched the Content Creator Cup for the Women’s Rugby World Cup — and we want your input. Comment your nominations for the women’s rugby content creators you love following, and we’ll spotlight the best throughout the tournament!Want more from Rugby Unity? Subscribe to our Substack for exclusive content, blogs, behind-the-scenes insights and full podcast access — all in one place: Rugby Unity | SubstackOne sport. Millions of voices. This is Rugby Unity.📧 Get in touch: info@rugbyunity.com.au TikTok | Instagram | YouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

David Pembroke and Ewen McKenzie unpack a huge week for the global game, starting with the remarkable rise of women’s rugby after England drew more than 77,000 fans at Twickenham in the opening round of the Women’s Six Nations. From there, the conversation widens into a bigger question: what does rugby need to do now to secure its long-term future?They look at the value of proper tournament structures, the momentum building around the Pacific Four and Women’s Six Nations, and why the women’s calendar may actually be closer to a true global season than the men’s game. There is also a close look at the new World Rugby Nations Cup, why it matters for emerging nations, and how regular international competition can drive both performance and commercial growth.The episode also explores the return of long-form touring, the appeal of rugby’s travelling culture, the growing credibility of second-tier nations, and what it all says about the shape of the game in the lead-up to the 2027 and 2029 World Cups. Add in European quarter-final drama, Super Rugby refereeing flashpoints, and debate around All Blacks selection, and this becomes a broad conversation about where rugby is heading and how it can grow from here.Also in this episode:● England’s huge Women’s Six Nations crowd and what it signals for the game● Pacific Four results and the growth of women’s international rugby● Why tournament structure is key to rugby’s long-term prosperity● The World Rugby Nations Cup and new opportunities for emerging nations● Touring tradition, global calendars, and what rugby still does better than any sport● European quarter-finals, Super Rugby talking points, and All Blacks selection debateSIGN UP TO THE BIG 3 HERE: https://tinyurl.com/big3rugbyunity 👈👈Ask Eddie Jones and Ewen McKenzie anything! Fill out the form below 👇https://tinyurl.com/rugbyunityquestions 👈👈👉 Want more from Rugby Unity? Subscribe to our Substack for exclusive content, blogs, behind-the-scenes insights, and full podcast access — all in one place: Rugby Unity | Substack📧 Get in touch: info@rugbyunity.com.auThanks to Eleven labs for providing a grant to Rugby Unity so that we can use their world leading software.TikTok | Instagram | YouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

David Pembroke sits down with top referee Angus Gardner for a straight-talking look at what it really takes to run elite rugby, from Super Rugby to the Six Nations. Angus opens up on getting “poleaxed” in Chiefs v Highlanders, the back condition that ended his playing days, and how refereeing became his way to stay in the game. They unpack how referees manage 800 decisions a match, what the “critical few” actually means, and why transparency with fans could lift understanding fast. The big debates are front and centre: flow vs accuracy, the shape of the game, Mark Robinson’s review into yellow cards and the TMO, plus Eddie Jones’s idea of a centrally contracted World Rugby referee squad. There’s also a sharp chat on communication, profiling referees, and what a home Rugby World Cup in Australia in 2027 could mean.Also in this episode:● Angus Gardner’s refereeing journey from age 15● Super Rugby’s “critical few” and weekly reviews● Flow vs accuracy: how referees balance both● Yellow card buckets and the 20-minute red● TMO scope: Super Rugby vs World Rugby rules● Nations Championship excitement and 2027 World Cup ambitionPLUS: Refereeing travel, downtime on tour, and the tight-knit elite officials group.SIGN UP TO THE BIG 3 HERE: https://tinyurl.com/big3rugbyunity 👈👈Ask Eddie Jones and Ewen McKenzie anything! Fill out the form below 👇https://tinyurl.com/rugbyunityquestions 👈👈👉 Want more from Rugby Unity? Subscribe to our Substack for exclusive content, blogs, behind-the-scenes insights, and full podcast access — all in one place: Rugby Unity | Substack 📧 Get in touch: info@rugbyunity.com.auThanks to Eleven labs for providing a grant to Rugby Unity so that we can use their world leading software.TikTok | Instagram | YouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

David Pembroke and Ewen McKenzie hold the fort while Eddie Jones is away touring with Japan U23, and it kicks off with a blunt reality check on what “tour” really means for staff: more toil, more review, and a constant hunt for one-percenters. From there, it’s a sprint through the weekend’s biggest talking points: the Investec European Rugby Championship’s eye-watering Round of 16 scorelines and why the tournament still struggles to cut through globally, plus Super Rugby’s Week 8 results and what the Western Force’s win over the Reds says about form, intent, and momentum. They also get into the uncomfortable truths around crowd numbers, the economics of attending live sport, and why rugby still lives and dies by referee interpretation, even with technology. Add in 2027 World Cup pillars, women’s rugby momentum, South African schools theatre, and Henry Pollock signing with Eddie Hearn.Also in this episode:● Eddie Jones touring: early starts, late finishes, relentless review● One-percenters in coaching: travel, jet lag, and talent ID● Investec European Rugby Championship lacks continuity and cut-through● Super Rugby Week 8: Crusaders, Chiefs, Force statement win● Referee profiles, 800 decisions a match, and TMO frustration● Women’s Six Nations, Pacific Four, and England ticket sales surgePLUS: The episode keeps circling one question: how rugby stays relevant, watchable, and financially sustainable.SIGN UP TO THE BIG 3 HERE: https://tinyurl.com/big3rugbyunity 👈👈Ask Eddie Jones and Ewen McKenzie anything! Fill out the form below 👇https://tinyurl.com/rugbyunityquestions 👈👈👉 Want more from Rugby Unity? Subscribe to our Substack for exclusive content, blogs, behind-the-scenes insights, and full podcast access — all in one place: Rugby Unity | Substack📧 Get in touch: info@rugbyunity.com.auThanks to Eleven labs for providing a grant to Rugby Unity so that we can use their world leading software.TikTok | Instagram | YouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

USA Rugby CEO Bill Goren joins David Pembroke for a straight, practical look at what it will really take to grow rugby in the United States before LA 2028, then the men’s Rugby World Cup in 2031 and women’s in 2033. From the grassroots reality of a niche, club-led sport across a huge country, to the push for high school varsity status, NCAA progress on the women’s side, and the challenge of making rugby easy to find in a crowded US sports market, Goren lays out the opportunities and the hard bits. There’s also the big-ticket showcase: All Blacks v Springboks in Baltimore, plus what USA Rugby must do to turn one-off events into lasting fans, participation, and community support. And with the Eagles qualified for 2027, the focus turns to getting more time together, improving faster, and building a genuine pathway from kids to Test rugby.Also in this episode:● Bill Goren’s background across US pro sports● Why rugby is still niche in the United States● Imagine Rugby reaches about 500,000 kids in three years● High school and NCAA status: the next big targets● All Blacks v Springboks Baltimore: fan experience and strategy● USA Eagles plans after qualifying for 2027PLUS: How USA Rugby plans to align grassroots, high performance, and values like inclusion.SIGN UP TO THE BIG 3 HERE: https://tinyurl.com/big3rugbyunity 👈👈Ask Eddie Jones and Ewen McKenzie anything! Fill out the form below 👇https://tinyurl.com/rugbyunityquestions 👈👈👉 Want more from Rugby Unity? Subscribe to our Substack for exclusive content, blogs, behind-the-scenes insights, and full podcast access — all in one place: Rugby Unity | Substack 📧 Get in touch: info@rugbyunity.com.auThanks to Eleven labs for providing a grant to Rugby Unity so that we can use their world leading software.TikTok | Instagram | YouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

World Rugby CEO Alan Gilpin joins David Pembroke to discuss the real hard questions facing our sport at the moment – rugby’s global calendar, player safety and cashflow are just the tip of the iceberg. Gilpin breaks down the real tension World Rugby is trying to solve: accuracy and flow, without treating it as a trade-off, and why too many law tweaks make life harder for officials moving between competitions. He explains the Mark Robinson match officiating review, what “shape of the game” stakeholders are pushing for, and why the strategic plan (targeting an early May launch) is centred on fans, player welfare, and growing the sport’s commercial engine. There’s also a big look ahead: strong early Rugby World Cup 2027 ticket demand in Australia, the long runway to USA 2031 and 2033, and how rugby can win in a brutal “attention economy”.● Alan Gilpin’s rugby journey from Gloucestershire to World Rugby● Six Nations weekend: Scotland v France, Italy’s big moments● Match officiating: accuracy versus flow is not a trade-off● Law trials across comps make consistency harder for referees● Mark Robinson review: TMO use, philosophy, elite officiating model● World Rugby strategy: fans, player welfare, commercial growth, USA 2031PLUS: Gilpin argues rugby’s future is more fans consuming more rugby, more often.SIGN UP TO THE BIG 3 HERE:https://tinyurl.com/big3rugbyunity 👈👈Ask Eddie Jones and Ewen McKenzie anything! Fill out the form below 👇https://tinyurl.com/rugbyunityquestions 👈👈👉 Want more from Rugby Unity? Subscribe to our Substack for exclusive content, blogs, behind-the-scenes insights, and full podcast access — all in one place: Rugby Unity | Substack 📧 Get in touch: info@rugbyunity.com.auThanks to Eleven labs for providing a grant to Rugby Unity so that we can use their world leading software.TikTok | Instagram | YouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

SIGN UP TO THE BIG 3 HERE:https://tinyurl.com/big3rugbyunity 👈👈David Pembroke is joined by Ewen McKenzie (with Eddie Jones in San Diego) to rip through what’s changing in Super Rugby and what rugby still gets wrong off-field. Ewen breaks down the experimental laws: no more caterpillar rucks, faster ball, 30-second scrum set calls, and more quick taps that keep defences unstructured. They also flag a noticeable shift in how refs are handling intercept knock-ons and yellow cards, and the bigger issue: why World Rugby won’t clearly explain what’s changed. From there, it’s back to the Six Nations: what made it so competitive, why England’s Steve Borthwick looks set to stay through to the 2027 Rugby World Cup, and what selection and combinations might unlock them. Plus, Rugby Unity launches “The Big Three” on Substack, and they finish with Third Voice questions covering Wallabies physicality, Rugby World Cup 2027 conditions, alignment camps, and whether the Iran Israel War could disrupt the Nations championship.● Super Rugby law trials speed up rucks and scrums● Quick taps increase tempo and punish disorganised defence● Yellow card trend shifts on intercept knock-ons● World Rugby transparency and communication under the microscope● Six Nations competitiveness, England review, Steve Borthwick stays● Rugby Unity launches “The Big Three” Substack digestPLUS: David Pembroke and Ewen McKenzie argue rugby must market itself harder, explain the laws better, and make it easier for fans to follow the game.Ask Eddie Jones and Ewen McKenzie anything! Fill out the form below 👇https://tinyurl.com/rugbyunityquestions 👈👈👉 Want more from Rugby Unity? Subscribe to our Substack for exclusive content, blogs, behind-the-scenes insights, and full podcast access — all in one place: Rugby Unity | Substack 📧 Get in touch: info@rugbyunity.com.auThanks to Eleven labs for providing a grant to Rugby Unity so that we can use their world leading software.TikTok | Instagram | YouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.