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.

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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.

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This week, we're joined by Niall Foynes, a member and social media manager of BVB na hÉireann, Ireland's official Borussia Dortmund supporters' club, for a fascinating look at football fandom that transcends borders. Our guest shares their journey from first falling in love with the Black and Yellows to becoming an integral part of Ireland's growing BVB community.

We explore the unique connection between Irish football culture and Dortmund's passionate, working-class identity, and hear incredible stories from the fan club's activities, including their unforgettable trip to Wembley for the 2024 Champions League final.

Topics include:

• The origins and growth of BVB na hÉireann
• The matchday experience for Dortmund fans
• Memorable moments in recent BVB history through an Irish lens
• The universal language of football passion that connects fans worldwide

Whether you're a die-hard Dortmund supporter or simply interested in how global football fandom creates communities, this episode offers unique insights into what makes BVB special to fans thousands of miles from Westfalenstadion.

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

As the 2025 GAA Hurling Championship approaches, I was joined by hurling analyst Matt Hurley for the ultimate preview of what promises to be an electrifying summer of action.

In this comprehensive discussion, Matt shares his expert insights on both provincial championships, analysing everything from Clare's title defence to Limerick's hunger for redemption and Cork's championship prospects..

Our conversation covers the most intriguing matchups across Munster and Leinster, tactical takeaways from the league campaign, and predictions for how the provincial championships will unfold.

Whether you're a die-hard hurling enthusiast or just getting interested in the championship, this episode provides all the context, analysis and predictions you need.

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

The NBA's playoffs have arrived, and this week I'm joined by basketball analyst Charlie Walker to preview what promises to be an electrifying couple of weeks.

Charlie helps us navigate the biggest storylines, from teams peaking at the perfect time to superstars with everything to prove. We break down each first-round matchup, identify the potential upset specials, and discuss the teams for whom it could be make or break.

In this episode:

• The evolution of the league this season and how it shapes playoff basketball
• In-depth analysis of East and West brackets with matchup keys
• Championship predictions and potential Finals matchups
• How the Doncic trade to the Lakers helped the league overall

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

Step into the heart of French rugby culture with our in-depth conversation featuring passionate Union Bordeaux Bègles supporter Maz Mc. This episode explores the electric atmosphere at Stade Chaban-Delmas and the club's journey from merger to European contender.

Our guest provides fascinating insights into UBB's playing philosophy, club legends, and the team's evolution under coach Yannick Bru. We analyse the critical matchups in the upcoming Champions Cup clash against Munster, examining how the French side might overcome the Irish province's European pedigree.

Whether you're a dedicated rugby fan or simply curious about how sport shapes regional identity in France, this conversation offers a compelling look at a club representing one of France's most celebrated cities as they pursue glory on the European stage.

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

CaolánSRugby joined me to preview the last 16 of the Champions Cup.

How will Munster do in France? Will there be any shock results and what is the future of this competition whose prestige has been chipped away over the last few years?

We discuss all this and more.

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