RugbyKO

Mick Byrne is the head coach of the Fijian Drua. Hear how Mick made the transition from playing AFL to rugby, to AFL coach, rugby assistant coach, and now Head Coach of the new franchise in the Super Rugby competition, the Fiji Drua. We dive into the lessons Mick has learned over his extensive career, and why he chose to enroll in a psychology course to address his own ideas when his coaching wasn’t being acted on. Find out what differentiates a great coach from a good one, and why team culture and giving everyone a voice is so key in maintaining the relationship between assistant and head coach when challenges arise. Listen in to hear why Fijian players are so passionate, what this means for their game, and how the inclusion of two pacific island teams into Super rugby is helping prevent the skills drain to offshore teams. We wrap up with Mick’s hopes and goals for the Fijian Drua, and what you can expect from them going forward. An introduction to Mick Byrne, head coach of the Fijian Drua. How Mick landed the job after his roles as head coach in Australian Rules and assistant rugby coach.Why Mick made the switch from AFL to rugby and his journey from player to coach. What differentiates the good coaches from the great coaches like Mick: different approaches to discipline and Mick’s enrolment in a psychology course. Being the assistant coach at the Wallabies and the All Blacks, and what Mick learned about the game of rugby in the country.  How Mick coped with agitation and disagreements with the head coach: creating a unified team culture. Why rugby in Fiji has become part of the fabric of the nation and why so many are passionate players and also fans of the team and the game. What the pacific island teams are bringing to the Super Rugby franchise. Managing coaching the Fijian Drua through the COVID-19 pandemic; the pros and cons. How the induction of the Fijian Drua into Super rugby is addressing the loss of local players to offshore teams. The coaching staff involved in the Fijian Drua. How World Rugby is supporting the Fijian Drua.Mick's advice to other coaches and what he's learned throughout his career. Sticking it out when the team turns on you: Mick’s suggestions on building a good environment. Why the Fijian Sevens' success hasn't translated to Fijian 15-a-side. Mick’s plans for the Fijian Drua going into the next phase of the season.The Fijian Drua’s chances in the Super Rugby pool, and their goals. “I actually started to really enjoy the Aussie rules game. Running around fit my build. I was able to do a lot more in Australian Rules football with my build than I was able to do in rugby.” — Mick Byrne [0:02:24] “My message wasn’t getting through. I still believe I was giving out good information, but it wasn’t being heard, it wasn’t being acted on. Something had to change: either I was going to have to give coaching away and get a real job, or I was going to have to work on myself.” — Mick Byrne [0:05:28] “When it came to rugby, [Fijians] play the good parts of rugby. They don’t get caught up in the aspects of the game that are a bit stifling, they like to play the fun parts of the game.” — Mick Byrne [0:10:30] Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Mick Byrne on LinkedInFijian DruaKatrina Email AddressRugbyKO

After his very recent retirement from playing Rugby, like many players, life after professional rugby can be difficult. Sam Wykes’ experience was no different at first. However, with some determined resolve,  he has created a wealth of opportunities for himself, from commentating to coaching and even corporate recruitment. We hear what Sam’s transition from the life of a professional athlete to a desk job  has been like, and how he has continued to give back to the rugby community. We find out how COVID-19 and injury combined to spell the end of his career, and how he handled the difficult emotions surrounding this. Sam also talks to us about his exciting new role and experience as a commentator for the Fijian Drua and some of the challenges he's faced, and what he is looking forward to this Super Rugby season.We reminisce over his time at the Western Force and the Waratahs, and how the culture differs between these two teams. Welcome to Sam Wykes, professional rugby player, commentator, and recruiter.What Sam enjoyed most about playing professional rugby, and what he’s going to miss most. The lessons learned from transitioning from playing sport for a living into the corporate world: don’t expect to be good from the start, and adjusting to the office environment.Sam’s experience playing in Japan, from living there to learning from some of the best rugby minds in the world. What Sam thinks the Fijian Drua will bring to Super Rugby. Where to hear Sam commentating.The training he has received to prepare him for commentating, and the technical challenges that he faced. Moving from the Western Force to the Waratahs and the differences Sam noticed between the two teams. What Sam did during his time off due to injury, and the importance of giving back to the sport at the grassroots level. The connections and social skills that will help grow the game, and getting the game back to where it was. Skills that Sam transferred from rugby to working in recruitment (not computer skills).The importance of having tough conversations, from rugby to the corporate world. “You’re surrounded by good people, a lot. Whether you’re in a winning team or a losing team it doesn’t matter. And any time I treated rugby like a job, I was unhappy. Because at the end of the day you’re supposed to enjoy it.” — @SamWykes4 [0:01:24] “I always say ‘Yes’ to opportunities, even if I’ve got no experience, or probably no right being there.” — @SamWykes4 [0:11:21] “We need all our teams firing at the moment to have a strong Wallabies team. There’s enough talent out there. I just think we’re neglecting the grassroots or the public school system to be able to get rugby playing again.” — @SamWykes4 [0:17:33] “What I did is what I normally do, is just see if I can be of service to someone else. There’s always someone worse off than you, and there’s always someone better off than you. So, you just need to stay grateful.” — @SamWykes4 [0:19:28]Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Sam Wykes on LinkedInKatrina Email AddressRugbyKOEmail RugbyKO

Developing Rugby India with Nasser HussainMost nations that play rugby also play cricket. One notable exception is India, where rugby is still a fledgling sport currently categorised under ‘other sports’. Today, we talk to Nasser Hussain, the CEO of Rugby India and the man responsible for putting the game on the map in India. Tune in to find out how Nasser himself got involved in the game and why he felt it was important to become an accredited world rugby trainer. We learn about the two major challenges facing Rugby India (infrastructure and media exposure), and what Nasser and his team are doing to address these. From the union’s upcoming targets for the high-performance Asian Games and Olympic teams to maintaining rugby participation at a grassroots level through the pandemic while supporting the community in any way possible, Nasser and his team are doing an incredible job! Join us to learn all about how this inspiring man is rousing a nation to rugby. Key Points From This Episode:Who Nasser Hussain is and his journey from playing to chairing Rugby India. The roles that Nasser and his father have played in Rugby India and the game itself. His perspective on what being an accredited world rugby trainer means for Rugby India.How COVID-19 has affected participation in rugby in India and what Nasser has been doing to try and maintain it. The role of commercial sponsors in supporting the growth of rugby in India. How cricket and rugby in India co-exist and why Nasser feels they hold different spaces.The infrastructure across India that is a challenge to the growth of rugby. The challenge of media exposure for rugby in India and what Nasser is doing to address it. Rugby India's broad strategic plan to target the Asian Games and the Olympics.  The structure of Rugby India, from the union to the executive team and the roles of each. What success to the administrative side of Rugby India looks like: good governance, model implementation, and improving high performance. Why it’s important to move Rugby out of the ‘other sports’ category.What the Stand United movement was and how Rugby India supported the community through the pandemic. “What we identified within Rugby India was there are a lot of players, but not enough coaches, not enough match officials. I think that's [one of] the challenges for developing unions.” — Nasser Hussain [0:04:39] “During COVID, surprisingly, we’ve managed to get more partners on board. The fact that we didn’t have much to do on field [meant that] we spent time doing things which you put on the back burner and don’t prioritise, which are important as well.” — Nasser Hussain [0:08:30] “Our focus is to ensure [that] our management and administration is top-notch, and hopefully everything else follows suit.” — Nasser Hussain [0:19:56] Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Nasser Hussain on LinkedInRugby IndiaGovernment of OdishaBlade IndiaKalinga Institute of Industrial TechnologyBLKKatrina Email AddressRugbyKOEmail RugbyKO

#A Day In Union is about uniting and connecting the rugby community globally.  The initiative  of Greg Mumm and John Anderson, A Day In Union aims to bring rugby back to its grassroots and shift the narrative to a more positive one., uniting all. We discuss where the idea came from, how everyone can get involved, and what different clubs around Australia are doing to celebrate it. We also find out what John has been up to as president of The Rugby Club of Victoria, and how he's making the sport more inclusive. Gregg tells us about his international coaching experience, athletes and their life post professional sport, and how the Fijian optimism and cultural identity inspired him to do a master's degree. We discuss the challenges facing players dealing with the end of their professional careers, and what to look out for as A Day In Union (26th of March) approaches. We chat about  how Gregg and John brought the concept of A Day In Union to life.  Bringing all levels of rugby together, with a united goal for rugby. When A Day In Union is (26th of March), what it entails and how you can get involved. What the clubs around Australia are doing to celebrate it. Who is involved as ambassadors for A Day in Union.Taking the grass-roots approach, and the catalysts behind realising the efficacy of it. Why giving back to communities and organisations will unify the game. Shifting the narrative in the game from divisive to positive; Gregg’s initiatives.John’s role as the president of the Rugby Club of Victoria, and what this entails.Bringing wheelchair rugby into the rugby community. Gregg’s experience of international coaching, and athlete management.Growing rugby in the Pacific: the benefits of Pacific clubs entering Super Rugby.How the Final Whistle supports the development of an athlete's identity outside of the sport. John’s experience mentoring players to the end of their professional sporting career. Why it's beneficial to invest in players' outside of rugby before the end of their careerThe lessons Gregg has learned transitioning from rugby to farming. Using #ADayInUnion. “Rugby, unfortunately, as in most sports, was struggling with this concept of how to manage COVID and the impacts of it, so [A Day in Union] was about creating a good news story, about creating something to look forward to.” — John Anderson [0:02:06] .“The game needs to go back to looking after its own people and own communities. This is hopefully a step in that direction, where we are reminded that the game’s great if we look after those communities and share the values and the fun and enjoyment that we grew up with.” — @gmumm1 [0:10:09] “It’s almost been cooler in rugby circles to be divisive, lately, than it has been to be collaborative, so this is just reminding people that ‘let’s come together and tell good stories rather than bad stories’.” — @gmumm1 [0:12:24] A Day In UnionJohn Anderson on LinkedInGreg Mumm on LinkedInThe Positive Rugby FoundationThe Final WhistleRugbyKO

Today’s guest, Robbie McRobbie, is a Scottish-born, British-educated, former police officer who is currently the CEO of the Hong Kong Rugby Union (HKRU). Furthermore, he is a recipient of an MBE award for the role he has played in changing the lives of at-risk youth through sport, as well as the work he has done to advance UK/Hong Kong relations. HKRU was the only national sports association to have a charity component, and we hear about the success of HKRU’s Community Foundation.  Robbie's focus though is currently on the globally recognised Hong Kong Sevens Tournament, which Robbie is hopeful to have up and running again in November. The pandemic has meant that the past few years have not been easy, and Robbie speaks with humility about the challenges they have faced and the exciting plans he has for HKRUs future.Robbie shares what his journey from the Hong Kong Police force to the Hong Kong Rugby Union (HKRU) has looked likeThe honour that Robbie was awarded in 2019Work being done by Operation Breakthrough, and Robbie’s involvement in the organisation HKRUs Community Foundation, and the instrumental role that Robbie played in setting it up. How HKRU is working towards eliminating the polarisation which plagues Hong Kong. Robbie explains how he feels about being the person in charge of the very successful Hong Kong Sevens Tournament.Some of the factors which he believes have contributed to the success of the Hong Kong Sevens Tournament. The profound impact that the pandemic has had on HKRU.HKRU’s strategy for organisational sustainability.  The Growth being experienced by Hong Kong’s sports sector.Robbie explains how the Hong Kong Premiership works, and the differences between the men’s and women’s premierships. A key focus of HKRU’s current strategic plan.The effort that HKRU is putting into promoting TRY Rugby, and the challenges of keeping the youth interested in the sport. HKRU’s relationship with World Rugby and other rugby unions. What the future holds for Hong Kong’s rugby teams. “[At Operation Breakthrough] we used sport and engagement with police officers to try and provide them with some positive role models and to try to break down barriers between the cops and the kids so the two sides stopped seeing each other as the enemy.” — Robbie McRobbie [0:06:39] “If you’re lucky enough to be handed the reins, the mantle, the opportunity to take a lead with the Rugby Sevens, you feel very much like you are being handed a family heirloom to look after.” — Robbie McRobbie [0:12:36] “Our hope and aim and objective is to get the Sevens back as soon as it is safe and practical. We have a date for November this year, so fingers crossed for that.” — Robbie McRobbie [0:18:59] “One of the key focuses of the current strategic plan is to become a more data-driven organisation.” — Robbie McRobbie [0:31:14] Hong Kong Rugby UnionHong Kong Rugby Union Community FoundationOperation Breakthrough Kai Tak Sports ParkPremier Sports AsiaRobbie McRobbie on LinkedInRugbyKO

Sport, rugby in particular, formed the foundation of Nick Leah’s childhood. Walcha where he grew up,  had several Ex-Wallabies and aspirational Wallaby trialists namely Peter Fenwick – who captained the Wallabies & Andrew Laurie who both along with his Dad drove  a lot of the sport in the town & coached Rugby and Cricket. His dad also coached NSW Country and various zone representative teams, and heavily involved in reviving Junior Rugby in Country NSW during the late 70’s and early 80’s. This  passion for developing the next generation of players took Nick from a passionate player as a child into an equally passionate coach and development expert as an adult. Over the past 20 years Nick has worked with sportspeople at all levels all over the world (with a 1 in 4 record of producing professionally contracted players!), and today, he is the Global General Manager of 6 Degree Sports, an elite performance consultancy which he shares some details about in today’s episode. We also get into what drives Nick to do the work that he does, what he sees as the main issues preventing Australian rugby from thriving as it should, and why he believes that creating a clear vision is essential for the future of the game.Key Points From This Episode:A rundown of Nick’s professional background.Nick explains the fundamental role that sport has played in his life since he was a child.Inspiration behind the founding of Ignite Rugby Group, now 6 Degree Sport.The key factor that made Nick’s hometown so successful in sports. Nick’s thoughts on the current state of Australian rugby. Characteristics that Nick believes make a good coach. Some of the pros and cons of Australian rugby. Learnings from a study that Nick conducted on a former NFL player. Articles that Nick has written in the past. What Australian rugby needs to do to gain back support of the players and the fans. How women’s rugby is evolving across the world. Nick explains what the 6 Degree Sport platform consists of. A new Rugby App launching soon in conjunction with The NSW Positive Rugby Foundation.What the 6 Degree Sports platform consists of and how it will benefit rugby players.“I saw what an organisation could do when everything is interconnected and there’s clarity around what you can do, and then I saw the exact opposite.” — Nick Leah [0:08:16] “The Ignite concept was born out of, “How do we create a platform that can provide the information that grassroots coaches can easily access and provide to the players?” — Nick Leah [0:10:08] “The best coaches provide a clear vision, can get people together, and are also looking at what’s next.” — Nick Leah [0:19:41] “In terms of skill development and acquisition, the body learns when the conditions for each repetition is slightly different – the body then has to adapt to get movement to a certain ‘end-point’.' — Nick Leah [0:26:51] Six Degree SportsSix Degree Sports on FacebookSix Degree Sports AppChris CoyleNick Leah on LinkedInWalcha Rugby Union on FacebookCountry Rugby Union

On the 14th of January 2022, disaster struck Tonga and its surrounding islands in the form of a submarine volcanic eruption deemed to be hundreds of times more powerful than the Hiroshima bomb. For a country that is reliant on farming and rainwater, this incident has had devastating impacts on the Tongan people. In today’s episode, Peter Harding and Toutai Kefu, the CEO and Head Coach of the Tongan Rugby Union respectively, join us to share what the situation looks like on the ground at the moment and how you can assist the various organizations that are helping to rebuild Tonga. We can’t have a Rugby KO episode without at least a little bit of rugby talk, so at the end of the episode you’ll hear about what the past few years have looked like for the Tongan Rugby Union, and their exciting plans for the future. Key Points From This Episode:How the recent Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha’apai volcano has affected Tonga. One of the major benefits of sport, and why it’s needed in Tonga now more than ever. Examples of how you can assist the people of Tonga through this challenging time.Peter explains how the donated goods will reach those who need them.Future struggles that Toutai and Peter anticipate for Tongans.How the government is assisting people living on the small islands surrounding Tonga. Organizations that are assisting the people of Tonga.Assurance that your donations will get to where they are needed. A rundown of what 2021 looked like for the Tongan Rugby Union.Plans for the future of the Tongan Rugby Union.“Sport’s good for health but also good for mental health. And I can tell from talking to people over there, some people are going to need a bit of a lift because there’s a lot of hard work ahead.” — Peter Harding [0:03:56] “Anything we can take would help at the moment because there’s a lot of people without stuff over there at the moment.” — Peter Harding [0:06:38] “We rely a lot on the land to feed ourselves, and that has been compromised, so I think in the coming weeks that food shortage is going to be a real problem.” — Toutai Kefu [0:07:32] “We’re the smallest country in World Rugby, and our budget at the World Cup is the smallest, and we’ve got the smallest population, but we’ve got the best players.”  — Peter Harding [0:16:27] Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:GoFundMe Tonga Tsunami Emergency FundraiserTonga Rugby Union on TwitterTonga Rugby Union on FacebookYouth In UnionRed CrossNew Zealand High Commission, TongaKatrina Email AddressRugbyKOEmail RugbyKO

Geoff Parkes is the author of ‘A World in Union - The Global Battle for Rugby Supremacy, published in 2017 to critical acclaim. He also writes for Australia's leading interactive sports website The Roar in his weekly column on rugby, 'The Wrap'. He has published almost 450 articles, with almost 2 million views. I chat to Geoff about Rugby, the writing he does for the sport, his views on where the game is at, and his views on the global game and its future Geoff talks about his journey with Rugby, writing for The Roar and writing his in depth book about global rugby.He discusses the best article he has written for The Roar and how he measures success. Geoff talks about the Rugby World Cup and an experience of writing articles that were immediate, on the pulse and by being immersed in the experience, it  enabled the atmosphere to truly be captured.Geoff says when writing online, the opinions of the general public appear live and are portrayed in a conversational way. He says it tests you as the rugby audience is informed, full of opinion and you must have your facts right, while also interacting with your readers.Geoff  tells us about the motivation for writing his book and why it was well received and consumed by the rugby and wider sports audience. The motivation  Geoff says, was to address some discontent in the game and interview and discuss rugby people from around the globe. It evolved from there. World Rugby, SANZAAR, international competitions, media & broadcasting rights, weaker nations, and the impact of all of these on Rugby globally.In the book it says 'A confused rugby calendar is subjected to a ‘land grab’ from clubs and national unions, all striving to maximize revenue.' We discuss whether the calendar has since been even more confused, particularly with the impacts of Covid globally. Geoff says it is not a clearer calendar or is there any real improvement in scheduling.  Various reasons, including the Northern v Southern Hemisphere scheduling that is layered and difficult particularly with club competition. Private equity have invested in the game, there is an increased self interest in the game and the calendar is full with conflicting schedules.In the book he discusses player welfare and say ‘Player welfare concerns are cited by all and sundry, yet are cast aside as soon as there is a dollar to be made. ‘ We talk about this, what else can be done and the risks associated with  this highly combative sport.We discuss  the sport becoming professional,  resources in the game broadly and how they are distributed, and the main globally challenges facing Rugby Union.Geoff discuss how World Rugby has an Investment in developing parts of the game, non traditional markets, women’s, youth, developing nations and  a lot of resources poured into these areas, but there is always never enough.He states the commercial base in the game is not large enough in Australia. Domestic pressures occur from significant other sports in Australia, and the sheer population size and followers of Rugby Union provide challenges compared to other nations. We talk about his thoughts on World Rugby bringing the sport together for a common goal globally when there appears a ’lack of a joined-up response from the major governing bodies whose self-interest is undermining the foundations of the sport ‘.I ask Geoff if we have the right strategies and people in place to bring the game forward? Does he have faith in ‘the game they play in heaven’. and its future?Geoff talks about his interest in writing a fiction book next time, his research into concussion in sport and his continuing support for Rugby Union.

Lolesio Sione played rugby union in his youth in Samoa. He and his family came to Australia in 2017, and settled in Melbourne. He has been ear marked as a grassroots gun, and a promising young talent in rugby union. He is now part of the Victorian Rugby Academy and developed his game at Wyndham City Rhinos.  The Backrower has also been recently asked to join the Rebels for preseason training with the club. He was also named in the junior Wallabies. He discusses training at the Rebels, the influence of his brother who also played union, his time at the academy in Victoria, nutrition, training, and learning all he can about playing rugby Union to achieve his goal of playing with the Wallabies.Lolesio says he’s grateful for the exciting opportunity to fast track his development with the Melbourne Rebels and in Victoria and we chat about his love of rugby union and aspirations to continue on this trajectory.

Kerry Chikarovski is a former NSW Liberal Leader and was the first woman to lead a major political party in New South Wales. She is also the Founder and Director of Chikarovski & Associates, a governmental relations, community engagement and stakeholder relations consultancy, which she founded in 2003, whose expertise spans a wide range of industries including financial, government, community, property and technology start-ups. Kerry holds a number of non-executive board roles including, NSW Waratahs Rugby Union, Our Watch, Adopt Change, Road Safety Education and the Humpty Dumpty Foundation. She is the Chair of NSW Women’s rugby union, an ambassador for the Australian Indigenous Education Foundation, and a mentor with the Minerva Network, supporting professional sportswomen on and off the field. Kerry can be seen and heard regularly as a media commentator across national television and radio channels including Sky News, ABC Weekend Breakfast, 2GB Radio, ABC The Drum, Q&A, Ch 7 Sunrise and was part of the key panel for the Seven News NSW 2019 State Election Coverage. We discuss her time in politics and her reasons for leaving the most rewarding job so far of her career. We discuss her role as a Director with the NSW Rugby Union, after originally being asked by Nick-Farr Jones to join the board, and the transparency and accountability moving forward of that board in relation to the Waratahs and the strategic decisions made.We talk about the launch of her biography 'Chika', her involvement in women's Rugby Union as chair of the NSW Women's Rugby Union, the new competition named after her, the Chikarovski Cup and its progress in developing and nurturing the womens game. Kerry says she is encouraged by the Stan deal and its commitment to broadcasting more female rugby.Kerry talks about her involvement in the Minerva Network, and the satisfaction of mentoring female athletes. We briefly discuss the Rugby World Cup bid and also Olympic bid, and also her day job with Chikarovski & Associates.Kerry provides an insight into her passionate and committed approach to Rugby Union with a particular focus on the female game and is looking forward to more and more time on the sidelines supporting the game she loves.

Andy Lockwood grew up in PNG and the UK.  In 1999 he travelled to Perth to play some rugby and managed to get selected for the WA U19s.  On return to the UK he attended University before starting a career in the British Army.  Rugby playing was put on hold for various periods as deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan were on the cards. In 2015 Andy started a part-time internship at Bath Rugby Academy within the Performance team.  At the end of the internship in 2018 he was left with no involvement in rugby after 30 years in the game as a player and coach.  This motivated him to start The Rugby Outreach Project and Rugby Vacancies.The Rugby Outreach Project provides free fitness and Strength & Conditioning advice to teams around the world.  From international to grassroots level.  170+ teams have been assisted over the last three years.Rugby Vacancies connects coaches and rugby people to jobs around the globe.  He has previously assisted the Crusaders and Fiji with their coach recruitment.We talk about these exciting ventures in Rugby and their ongoing success, as well as his recruitment of rugby players into the WWE, world of wrestling. We discuss his 17 years in the British Army, and his thoughts on the game of rugby in Northern Hemisphere.Rugby Vacancieshttps://www.facebook.com/rugbyvacancies/Rugby Outreach Projecthttps://www.facebook.com/rugbyoutreach/Andrew Lockwood @ LinkedINhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-lockwood-18a14864/?originalSubdomain=uk

Your mission with head safe and neck safe is ultimately to eliminate or reduce preventable neck and head injuries. Do you have any current information specific to sport in Australia around the number of head and neck injuries occurring in sport each year.What can we do to prevent this or reduce this number? Concussion is of particular concern, even in junior sport. What can be done more actively to reduce the occurrence of this and what are the effects of experience a single concussion, and multiple concussions?There is some litigious discussions currently with the English Rugby Union and Welsh Rugby Union in the form of a class action, taking World Rugby to task for not providing adequate player welfare and a safe playing environment for players. Some high profile ex players are saying that long term brain injuries have been endured as a direct consequence of head or neck injuries sustained while playing rugby. What are your thoughts on this and have we globally provided a safer playing environment now? Do measures such as Head injury Assessments HIA or the implementation of the Blue Card for example - indicating that a match official would like the player assessed for concussion or a potential head injury - do you think these measures are adequate and a step forward, or is there further to go to ensure player welfare in this combative sport.There is a Gradual Return to Play protocol in Rugby Union, where anyone who has been confirmed medically as suffering a concussion must under specific guidelines for specific players, gradually return to full play following the injury. Can you tell us what is the required time for the injury to be deemed now safe to play again? Is there a standardised treatment, analysis and recommendations for head or neck injuries  across the board for all community rugby union and then also for all professional rugby union? Should there be a unified approach?Is there a potential litigious situation for Australian Rugby Union in relation to providing a duty of care to players? What needs to be done immediately to avoid a litigious situation, but more importantly, to mitigate these risks and provide the safe environment needed and provide the highest level of care for all players?Could you talk to us about NuroChek and its application in assessing brain function. I understand the FDA in the USA has adopted this technology, but it is not yet approved in Australia. Does this enhance the more precise diagnosis of a head injury, taking the subjectiveness out of it?You have also introduced a training accreditation process for first responders to be trained in how to manage head and neck injuries correctly. Can you tell us about this accreditation process and can other first aiders in general do this course if they wish to be able to be informed and mange these injuries until more qualified expert attention can be given? You did some high level studies with players at Randwick rugby, measuring the force of impact, the frequency of impact and gathered much needed facts and data. What were the findings in general from that study?Do you think this is a new problem and is it related to the pace and ferocity of the game and the way it is played now? Or, has concussion and related head and neck injuries always been prevalent in all full contact sports?You have also provided medical teams to film sets and TV shows, such as Survivor, The Biggest Loser and others. Do you have any stories you can share where these medical teams were critical?You are at the fore front of this important medical science. What do you need to ensure this important work is implemented, recognised so that globally we reduce and prevent head and neck injuries of players?NUROCHEKHEADSAFENECKSAFEDR ADRIAN COHEN

Will Grant lives in Rouchel (pronounced 'Roo Kill' he tells me) - a small town in the Upper Hunter, and was introduced to Rugby Union when he started as a boarder at the Kings School in Sydney. He played his junior rugby as a rugby league player in the surrounding league competitions offered near his rural home. In his senior high school years, Will moved to Riverview College where he played in the first XV for two years and cemented his love of union. Following school , he headed to New Zealand and was signed to the provincial competition, the Mitre 10 Cup competition, playing for Northland. It is the second highest level of competition in NZ and Will is returning to NZ for the next season, leaving his beloved farming life again in Australia. Will talks about growing up in very rural and isolated NSW and playing rugby league asa youngster, with dreams of becoming a wests tigers player, his beloved team. He was introduced to Rugby Union when he attended boarding school in Sydney, and did not look back. Following school, he spread his wings and ventured to New Zealand, where he was picked up by the provincial club, Northland in the Mitre 10 Cup.Will talks about his development as a player and person in New Zealand and how the rugby experience across the ditch has been invaluable in his understanding of the game and application of his rugby skills.He is back in Australia on the farm, but talks about how keen he is to get back to NZ and play, following a Covid enforced break,  with aspirations of playing in a Super Rugby team, the next step for him in his career.We talk about his desire to play for the Wallabies, and how he will need tor eturn to play domestically if he wants to achieve that goal.We talk about the positive culture in NZ and the love of Rugby there, and the off field community feel to the game in the very successful rugby nation. We talk about the differences on the field with the way the game is played there, and what Will has learnt from many notable players he has had the opportunity to be exposed to and involved with in his time there.We discuss how he was heavily influenced by Rugby league at a young age as rugby union did not have the same presence in the bush, and we talk about the lack of opportunity for country kids to immerse themselves in union due to the lack of nearby competitions. Will talks about the future, heading back to NZ, and how he has appreciated the huge rainfalls we have been experiencing which is helping farm life. He hopes to get Upper Rouchel in the spotlight one day when he pulls on the green and gold jersey and plays for the Wallabies. Upper RouchelSconeMitre 10 CupNZ RugbySuper RugbyUpper HunterRiverview CollegeThe King's SchoolDane InmanNorthland TaniwhaHora HoraWhangarei

In the first episode of the 2021 season of Rugby KO, we talk to the talented Nick Piper, owner and producer of Onion TV.  His prolific sports documentaries have a combined almost one million views and he is now into the 7th series of The Season, his Rugby Union documentary series. He takes a close look at schools Rugby, and provides access to the inner sanctum of what makes a schools rugby team so entertaining.Nick talks about his devotion to sport and profiling all sports, including Rowing, Rugby, Basketball, Netball, Baseball  amongst others and what are the key ingredients into producing reputable, high quality sports documentaries.We discuss the name Onion TV and Nick provides interesting insights into why the company was named Onion, including the layers involved, standing out from a crowded and contrived production cohort , and that when you watch Onion TV you may just shed a tear or two with the intensity of the documentaries and the sporting highs and lows experienced.Nick talks about some integral components to providing great content and a production that achieves the goals intended, including the importance of the audio insights, the microphone always on, cinematography and the tricks of the trade in capturing the best position for videoing. The detail in post production and the requirements to align with the ethos of schools in particular in generating a final product that is not only highly entertaining, but keeps to the professionalism, the spirit captured and honours the subjects in question.He shares a story about launching the documentary and how fortunate he was in the game he produced in Queensland between Nudgee College vs Gregory Terrace. The match could not have been scripted better, with a packed school stadium of 12,000 spectators, a tied game, controversy over a final kick, and then the unbelievable applause and adulation of the emotional crowd. It launched his series and was the perfect rugby match that had it all for engaging an audience.We talk about what in fact makes a great sports documentary, the rise of the category over the last 10 years, and what it takes to present the best possible content and viewing for a demographic that wants highlights and shorter excerpts of matches and regularly able to have access to it. We discuss how the landscape for media and sport in particular has changed.Nick discusses his preliminary conversations with Stan and Nine Entertainment and the exciting future for Onion TV. He talks about his vision for the company, both short and long term and what he is planning immediately to take Onion TV and sports documentaries to the next level.Watch his series on Rugby Pass, You Tube or the Onion TV website and see what we are talking about.Episode LinksNick Piperwww.oniontv.com.auThe SeasonThe CrewThe CodeNudgee CollegeGregory TerraceHamilton Boys CollegeBrisbane Boys CollegeThe BrumbiesThe WaratahsReesjan PasitoaRugby PassFox SportsStan SportNine EntertainmentMumbrella AwardsLoughborough UniversityThe Big Breakfast UKThe Haka

From knowing your opponent’s key stats to studying their star players, preparing your team’s defence is as vital as their offence game. Today we speak with Wallabies defence coach Matt Taylor about his life, career, and what he does to develop a dogged defensive line. After touching on his professional highlights, we chat about his time coaching in Scotland and how he landed his job at the Wallabies. From there, we discuss his relationship with attack coach Scott Wisemantel and coach David Rennie. Matt shares insights into his defensive plan, what information he uses to develop his strategy, and which aspects of the Wallabies’ performance he aims to improve. We unpack how Matt adapts his plans on the pitch before we dive into his team’s coaching structure. As head coach David Rennie is a New Zealander, we ask Matt whether coach nationality impacts player patriotism and pride in wearing the jersey. Matt’s answer emphasises the importance of culture fit over nationality, along with why he believes David Rennie is the perfect coach for the job. Near the end of the episode, we explore the Wallabies role in reaching the grassroots game and how they are restoring faith in Australian rugby. Tune in to learn more about what Matt is doing to bring confidence back in the defensive aspects of the Wallabies. •    Introducing Wallabies defence coach Matt Taylor. •    Exploring Matt’s experience coaching in Scotland.•    Hear about Matt’s current work at the Wallabies. •    Insights into Matt’s strategies for developing a team’s defensive capabilities. •    Why head coaches need to recognise the importance of a side’s defence. •    Which defensive areas the Wallabies need to improve.•    The stats that defensive coaches use to formulate their defence plans.•    How players adapt their defence plan during a game. •    Why the Wallabies have brought more young guns into the team.•    We discuss the Wallaby coaching structure and team.•    Whether nationality impacts the ability to instil patriotic pride in wearing the jersey. •    Matt shares his opinions on why David Rennie is the ideal Wallabies head coach.•    How the pandemic has affected the Wallabies' plans to connect with the grassroots. •    Winning fanbase and restoring confidence in Australian rugby. “As a defensive coach, you have to study your opponent’s attacking stats, their star players, their speed of ball, what phases they score their tries in — it’s a big melting pot.” — Matt Taylor [0:12:04]  “One thing that’s impressive about David Rennie is he’s not afraid to give the young guys a go.” — Matt Taylor [0:17:01]  “As long as you understand the culture, your coach’s nationality doesn’t matter. There wasn’t an Australian coach that could have taken the role of Wallabies coach as well as David Rennie.” — Matt Taylor [0:21:54]  Matt TaylorWallabiesGlasgow WarriorsScottish RugbyDave RennieScott JohnsonScott WisemantelWorld RugbyEuropean Rugby Champions CupPremiership Rugby

With so many styles of play on offer, adaptability has become a necessary skill for the international and modern rugby coach. Today we speak with Curtis Bradford, one of the youngest national coaches in World Rugby, whose career has taken him to Malaysia, Wales, Finland, Rwanda, and Austria. After sharing his professional highlights, we chat with Curtis about his current role as the Head Coach of the Austrian Sevens team. Curtis provides insights into what rugby is like in a smaller nation, diving into their focus on player retention, the sports that rugby competes with, and what Austrian rugby is doing to ensure that each generation of players performs better than the last. We also touch on the state of Austrian women’s rugby before Curtis reflects on his experiences as a globe-trotting coach. Following this, we discuss the importance of adaptability to rugby coaching. Near the end of the episode, we explore Curtis’s work for the Friends of Rwanda charity. Tune in to hear more game-changing perspectives on coaching from Curtis Bradford. Key Points From This Episode: •    Introducing Curtis Bradford, the world’s youngest national rugby coach.•    Hear about how Austria is faring under the pandemic. •    What led Curtis to find and then accept his Austrian coaching appointment.•    Curtis shares details about what the Australian club rugby scene is like.•    How Austrian rugby retains its players through high-quality programs. •    Exploring the opportunities presented by rugby’s international profile. •    Why Curtis’s priority as an Austrian coach isn’t to win titles.•    Why the successes of Austria’s coaching approach will first be seen in sevens rugby. •    Discussing the state of women’s rugby in Austria.•    How rugby fits into Austria’s sports landscape.•    Curtis talks about the top experiences from his globe-trotting career. •    The importance of adaptability when coaching such an international game. •    We touch on Curtis’s work for the Friends of Rwanda charity. “In Austria, we’re focusing on player retention. The best way is to make sessions as high-quality as possible and to develop players as quickly as we can.” — Curtis Bradford [0:08:16]  “What we’re trying to do is to lay the platforms for the next group to come through. We aim to set up good pathways and leave the jersey in a better place than we found it.” — Curtis Bradford [0:13:12] How I speak to players in Byron Bay is completely different to how I speak to Malaysian players. With such an international game, you have to be adaptable in your approach.” — Curtis Bradford [0:22:13] Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Curtis Bradford on LinkedInAustrian Rugby FederationWaratahsWorld RugbyKuala Lumpur Tigers Welsh Rugby UnionFriends of RwandaRugbyKO

High-calibre play and healthy interschool rivalries make school rugby a key battleground for developing the next generation players. Today we speak with ex-Wallaby Tim Wallace about school rugby and his work in rugby development at the Shore School in Sydney. We open our conversation by discussing Tim’s career highlights in club and international rugby. After sharing his tips on competing for team spots, we talk about the link between effective school level coaching and building a rapport with your students. Tim then opens up about the challenges faced by Shore School rugby and the solutions they’re introducing to boost their level of play. We touch on the importance of school competition, how school rugby creates a pathway to professional rugby, and Tim’s views on other codes of football. He emphasises that the sport provides students with mentors and role models — irrespective of the code they play. Near the end of the episode, we reflect on why many students stop playing after leaving school, with personal insights into what helped Tim continue his rugby career. We round off our conversation by chatting about the Shore School’s 2021 goals. Tune in for more on how Tim is determined to take school rugby at Shore into a successful new era for the school. Key Points From This Episode: •    Comparing the experience of playing school, club, and international rugby.•    Tim shares his fondness for old school rugby tours.•    Advice on perseverance and competing over the same player position.•    Hear about Tim’s work at the Shore School in Sydney.•    Why the Shore School hasn't been able to land a rugby title in recent years. •    What the Shore School is doing to boost their level of play.  •    The importance of strong school rugby rivalries.•    How school rugby provides a pathway to the professional game. •    How pride in the school, the jersey, and playing the first XV is inherent at the school.•    Tim discusses the factors that kept him playing after leaving school, but why others don't. •    Insights into coaching resources provided by Rugby Australia and GPS schools.•    Tim opens up about the 2021 goals that he has for his team.  “Old boys are proud to watch their school play. It becomes a breeding ground for professional athletes.” — Tim Wallace [0:16:53]  “For younger boys, if they have good role models, it doesn’t matter if they’re playing rugby union, league or AFL. They’re getting a good example of who they can aspire to be.” — Tim Wallace [0:19:37]  Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: Tim WallaceShore SchoolGPS RugbyBarker College Wallabies Gordon RFCShore SchoolThe King’s SchoolRugby AustraliaSt Joseph's CollegeNewington CollegeThe Scots CollegeHadley JacksonWaratahsRugbyKO 

For many, rugby has been an incredible outlet where people have found friendship and camaraderie. For Toutai Kefu — arguably the best number 8 that the Wallabies have ever had, transitioning into coaching was a natural step that allowed him to stay connected to the culture that he loves. Today we speak to Toutai about his career as an illustrious player and prolific coach. Early in our conversation, we chat about his love of coaching and the years he spent in Japan. Touching on his current role as a coach for the World Ten Series, we talk about the 10s format and how its focus on set pieces might attract rugby traditionalists. Following this, we discuss his work at Brisbane Boys’ College, what it’s like to work with his brother, Steve, changes to the Wallabies’ culture, and why forming a Pacific island rugby team is an opportunity to inject excitement into Super Rugby. After sharing his take that Rugby Australia could have better handled the controversy surrounding Israel Folau, Toutai dives into what he would do if he was in charge of Rugby Australia. With an international career spanning many areas of the game,tune in to hear more insights from Toutai Kefu, the multi-faceted Tongan talent.Key Points From This Episode:• Introducing ex-Wallaby and prolific coach, Toutai Kefu.• Toutai shares details about his career highlights as a player.• Living in Japan and what their rugby following looks like.• Hear what Toutai loves about coaching and how it keeps him connected to the sport.• Comparing 10s rugby with other formats and why it might appeal to traditionalists.• What it was like for Toutai to coach Brisbane Boys’ College with his brother.• How Toutai would coach the Wallabies scrum if he were in charge.• Why Toutai thinks that a Super Rugby Pacific island team is an incredible idea.• Courting controversy; why Rugby Australia could have better handled the Israel Folau case.• Repairing the Australian rugby’s relationship with the grassroots game.“One of the biggest things that I love about rugby is that camaraderie and friendship. Being acoach keeps you in that fantastic environment.” — Toutai Kefu [0:05:08]“Everyone thinks that there will be cultural challenges with creating a Pacific island team but we all get along. We’re all Pacific brothers and we all know that.” — Toutai Kefu [0:13:25]Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Toutai KefuTonga National TeamBrisbane Boys’ CollegeQueensland CountryKubota SpearsQueensland RedsWorld Tens SeriesThe SeasonSteve KefuRod MacqueenTaniela TupouSuper RugbyNational Rugby ChampionshipRugby AustraliaIsrael FolauQantasRugbyKO

According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 18% of Australians live with a disability,. With great resilience, and after a 2008 rugby accident resulted in quadraplegia, Mark Tonga has advocated for the rights of people with disabilities. Today we speak to Mark about the contributions that both he and the rugby community have made towards this cause. We open our conversation by exploring the advisory role that Mark plays on boards, as well as his Chairman role with the Disability Council of NSW. Mark talks about how he suffered his injury and his process in adjusting to his new life. We discuss the work that organisations like the Hearts in Union Rugby Foundation do to support those living with disabilities. After sharing how the rugby community has rallied behind the cause, we ask Mark for his thoughts on rugby and its combative nature. His answer highlights how the valuable skills that are learned by playing the sport far outweigh the low risk of injury. We touch on Mark’s motivations, greatest achievements, how technology assists him in daily life, and how Mark has discovered new passions — like opera. Near the end of the episode, Mark gives listeners his take on what he wants to see in Australian rugby. An inspiring example of resilience and positivity, tune in to hear Mark’s story.  Key Points From This Episode:•    Exploring Mark's role as a disabilities advocate on various disability councils. •    Mark shares details of the catastrophic accident that left him as a tetraplegic.•    Adjusting to your new life as someone with a disability. •    How Mark’s family dealt with his accident — it happened soon after his mother passed. •    The support that the Hearts in Union Foundation gives to people with disabilities. •    Insights into how the rugby community advocates for people with disabilities. •    What Mark would say to critics who think that rugby is too combative. •    Mark discusses his motivations in lobbying for change, along with his greatest achievementsStudying his Masters at UNSW on scholarship and how honoured he is•    The perspective shifts around disability that Mark would like to see happen. •    With advances in technology, why now is a “good time to have a disability.”•    Discovering new passions — as one door closes, another can open. •    Why Mark is looking forward to the next decade of Australian rugby. •    Mark talks about what the future holds for him. •    How Mark’s community and mentors helped him to rebuild his life.  “Respect, leadership, camaraderie. You pick these skills up while playing rugby and they far outweigh any risks from playing.” — @MarkTonga[0:15:16] "Medical science has allowed people like me, with high level serious disabilities, the technology to assist us and allow us to live a productive and full life"@MarkTonga[0:19:40]Mark TongaMark Tonga on LinkedInMark Tonga on TwitterPhysical Disability Council of New South Wales          Hearts in Union Rugby FoundationWest Harbour Football ClubPeople with Disabilities AustraliaSpinal Cord Injuries Australia

The pandemic has shifted Australian rugby, causing it to focus on the aspects of the sport that matter the most, including fellowship, player engagement, and rugby’s ability to foster communities. All of these are hallmarks of grassroots rugby. Today we speak with Queensland Reds’ General Manager for Community Rugby, Gaven Head, about his role in promoting on-the-ground rugby. We open our conversation by chatting about how tackling COVID challenges has allowed him to accelerate the changes that he’s wanted to make. After sharing his team’s successes in maintaining participation rates, Gaven talks about how grants have empowered local rugby communities, leading to more players and coaches taking to the field. Considering his 2006 consulting work with Rugby Australia, we ask him if his recommendations were implemented. His answers touch on the executive turnover at that time, along with the sport’s general struggles with recruiting and retaining a customer base. We then discuss the incredible diversity of community rugby, the resilience of smaller clubs, and how rugby organisations and grant-funded programs are trying to align rugby with the grassroots game. A key initiative, we talk about how Queensland is raising mental health awareness before diving into Gaven’s take on the support that community rugby needs right now. Tune in to hear more about how Gavin is tackling the challenges of community rugby. Key Points From This Episode:Exploring Gaven’s role in promoting Queensland community rugby.Gaven shares some of his successes, including high participation despite the pandemic. Hear about Gaven’s ‘roadshow,’ and how he’s engaging with the areas he serves. How Rugby Australia’s emerging grants program is getting more players onto the field.Judging the 2006 recommendations that Gaven made while consulting for Rugby Australia.Why community rugby seems to have been neglected for such a long time. Defining the incredibly diverse spectrum that makes up community rugby.Creating an atmosphere of fellowship and enjoyment in local games.Why rugby culture is realigning the sport with a focus on grassroots games and support.Raising mental health awareness and helping clubs develop mental health strategies.  Gaven discusses changes to the Rookies2Reds program.What community rugby is Queensland needs right now. How you can ensure that schools and clubs can work together as a community unit.Models that allow local rugby communities to adapt to regional strategies.Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: Gavin Head on LinkedInQueensland Rugby UnionSunnybank RugbyRugby AustraliaThe Emerging Schools Rugby FoundationIn Touch with Mental Health Rookies2Reds ProgramShute Shield Cup