Kiano Fourie, a high performance coach for Rugby India, shares his journey from South Africa to India and discusses the development of rugby in India, the challenges, and the future goals for the sport. The conversation covers the growth and development of rugby in India, including the challenges and opportunities faced by the sport. It also explores the potential for professionalization and the regional structure of the game. The conversation delves into the geographical and logistical aspects of rugby in India, as well as the potential for a franchise-based model similar to the IPL in cricket.

In this conversation, Russell Earnshaw discusses his rugby journey and experiences as a player and coach. He emphasizes the importance of enjoying the game and appreciating amateur rugby. He also talks about his time playing sevens and the benefits it brings to players and coaches. The conversation touches on the limitations of coaches in rugby, including their attitude towards learning, access to expertise, and the politics within the game. The lack of innovation in the sport is also discussed, with the need for coaches to push boundaries and think outside the box. The conversation revolves around the importance of coaching in sports, particularly rugby. The hosts discuss the need for coaches to be adaptable and encourage players to play multiple positions to develop a better understanding of the game. They emphasize the importance of creating a fun and supportive environment for players to thrive. The conversation also touches on the attributes of an ideal coach, including noticing, simplifying, kindness, and creating a positive team spirit. The hosts share their experiences with coaching and highlight the impact that good coaching can have on players' enjoyment and development. They also discuss the challenges and rewards of coaching and the importance of self-awareness and continuous learning.

Summary

Mark Witcher, assistant coach at Portsmouth Rugby Club, shares his rugby journey and experiences coaching at Portsmouth and Hampshire. He played for Portsmouth Rugby Club throughout his career and had the opportunity to captain the twos and the vets. Mark mentions players he played with who went on to make it, including Oscar Wingham and Brendan Tracy. He also talks about players who didn't make it but should have, such as Matt Brano and Rich Herring. Mark also discusses his coaching experience and highlights Abby Harding as a standout player he coached at Portsmouth. During the conversation, Mark Witcher and Carl discuss the progression of women's rugby during Mark's tenure as a coach. They mention the impact of televised games, initiatives like 'This Girl Can' and the Inner Warrior series, and the accessibility of women's rugby at the local level. They also touch on the challenges faced by women's rugby in terms of funding and opportunities for players to progress to higher levels. They discuss the need for a more open and inclusive approach in the sport, allowing for promotion and relegation and providing pathways for players who may not fit into the traditional academy system. They also highlight the importance of attracting and retaining top talent in order to compete with other nations. The conversation covers various topics related to rugby, including the promotion and marketing of the sport, the potential for the women's game to become a cash cow for the RFU, the challenges faced by grassroots clubs like Portsmouth Rugby Club, and the importance of sharing knowledge and supporting each other within the rugby community.