Join me for a journey through 100 years of Limerick rugby history with Des Ryan and Stephen Ruschitzko, authors of "Limerick Lions - Limerick and the British and Irish Lions 1888-1988.

In this fascinating chat, Des and Stephen reveal the incredible stories of the first nine Limerick men to represent the British and Irish Lions, from 1888 to 1988. These weren't just rugby players - they were adventurers, characters, and legends whose tales read like fiction.

Highlights include:

• Charles Barrington from Murroe, the "Father of Irish Rugby" who wrote the rules
• William Roche's extraordinary WWII encounter with Rudolf Hess
• The alleged car theft that became rugby folklore (involving Mick English)
• Tom Clifford's heroic six-month tour of 1950s New Zealand
• Why Colm Tucker played more for the Lions than Ireland
• The family connections and rivalries that shaped Limerick rugby

Des and Stephen also share insights into their extensive research process, working with players' families, and uncovering stories from an era when Lions tours lasted six months and took players to the far corners of the world - from Australia and New Zealand to Sri Lanka, Canada, and Kenya.

Whether you're a rugby fanatic or simply love great Irish stories, this episode offers a unique window into Limerick's proud sporting heritage and the characters who helped write rugby history.

"Limerick Lions - Limerick and the British and Irish Lions 1888-1988" is published by TTT Press and available from July 1st, 2025.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join me for a great conversation about the future of girls' rugby in Ireland with the team behind Old Crescent RFC's "Give It A Try" initiative.

This special episode explores how the club is opening doors for girls aged 8-14 to discover rugby in a supportive, fun environment.

• I sat down with Claire Marty Crowe, official coordinator of the GIAT program, who explains the vision behind this growing initiative.
• Tracey Duggan, coach at Old Crescent RFC, shares practical insights about how sessions are structured to welcome complete beginners while fostering skills development.
• Peter Shelley, Chairman of Minis and Youths, rounds out the conversation with the club's broader commitment to youth rugby development.

Whether you're a parent considering rugby for your daughter, a coach interested in growing participation, or simply a rugby enthusiast, this episode highlights the positive impact the sport can have on young girls' confidence, teamwork skills, and physical well-being.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Deep in a virtual warroom myself, CaolánS Rugby & Huw Griffin Rugby run the rule over who we think Andy Farrell picks for the tour to Australia.

There might a bit of discussion around the games from the weekend as well.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.