Matt Giteau is an Australian rugby union player known for his versatility. Currently playing for the San Diego Legion in Major League Rugby, Giteau excels as a utility back, primarily in the inside centre and fly-half positions.

 

Debuting for the Wallabies in 2002, Giteau was nominated for the International Rugby Board Player of the Year in 2004. He has played in 104 Super Rugby matches and earned 103 test caps for Australia. His return to the national team, after a break, was facilitated by "Giteau's Law," highlighting his enduring impact on Australian rugby.

 

In this chat, Matt shared his deep insights into the world of goal kicking in rugby, offering a glimpse into his personal journey, experiences, and the valuable lessons he has learned throughout his career. We dive into:

 

• Matt eloquently highlighted the significance of maintaining a consistent process, cultivating mental resilience, and showcasing the unwavering dedication required to excel as a goal kicker. Through his reflections, Matt vividly portrayed the mental battles, challenges, and strategic preparations essential for thriving in high-pressure situations on the rugby field.

 

• Drawing inspiration from interactions with rugby legends like Johnny Wilkinson, Matt articulated how he assimilated invaluable lessons from their unparalleled work ethic, commitment to repetition, and distinctive training methodologies. Matt articulated the importance of staying engaged in the kick, prioritizing technique over immediate outcomes, and harnessing specific mental cues to enhance precision and consistency, as gleaned from top kickers such as Wilkinson. Furthermore, Matt shed light on the profound impact of esteemed coaches like Eddie Jones and Benny Perkins, underscoring the pivotal role of structured training, simulated pressure scenarios, and the pivotal role of building unwavering confidence through competitive challenges and relentless practice sessions.

 

• In essence, the conversation with Matt offered a profound exploration of the intricacies of goal kicking in rugby, providing a window into his profound mindset, meticulous training routines, and the transformative influence of rugby legends and seasoned coaches on his growth and development. Through a blend of mental fortitude, technical finesse, and unwavering dedication, Matt's insights illuminated the arduous yet rewarding path to success as a goal kicker, underscoring the resilience and commitment required to thrive in this pivotal aspect of the game.

There is so much detail and insight in this episode. Please enjoy and share.

 

John Cooney is a talented professional rugby union player from Ireland known for his skills as a scrum-half. He was born on December 17, 1989, in Dublin, Ireland. Cooney has played for various teams throughout his career, including Connacht, Leinster, and currently Ulster Rugby in the Pro14 and European competitions.

 

Cooney is recognized for his exceptional kicking abilities, playmaking skills, and leadership on the field. His precise passing, tactical awareness, and accurate goal-kicking have made him a valuable asset to his teams. Cooney’s versatility allows him to adapt to different game situations, whether it be controlling the tempo of the game, setting up attacking plays, or providing solid defense.

 

Throughout his career, Cooney has earned praise for his work ethic, dedication to the sport, and commitment to improving his game constantly. He is known for his competitive spirit and determination to succeed, which have helped him excel in the highly competitive world of professional rugby.

 

Off the field, Cooney is respected for his professionalism, sportsmanship, and involvement in community initiatives. He serves as a role model for aspiring young rugby players, inspiring them to work hard, stay focused, and strive for excellence both on and off the field.

 

Cooney is a talented and accomplished rugby union player who continues to make significant contributions to the sport. His skills, leadership qualities, and dedication to continuous improvement have established him as a key figure in Irish rugby and a fan favorite among supporters.

 

In this episode of the podcast, we learn

 

• Embracing Growth Mindset: Encouraging kickers to constantly seek improvement rather than settling for mediocre success rates.

 

•  Simplifying Technique: Advocating for a focus on essential striking abilities over unnecessary complexities in kicking technique.

 

• Learning from the Best: Studying successful kickers like M. Steyn and Dan Carter for insights on simplicity and effectiveness.

 

• Coaching Experience: Sharing challenges and growth as a kicking coach, emphasizing the value of coaching for personal improvement.

 

• Feedback and Improvement: Highlighting the importance of being open to feedback, even from unexpected sources, to identify areas for enhancement and optimize kicking performance.

 

There is so much detail and insight in this episode. Please enjoy and share.

 

We are super excited to bring you our newest project. The Bricks Club is our new Facebook group where the goal is to give back to the community and the game. The two brains of Rugby Bricks talk through the creation of the Bricks Club and how it has become an interactive community for people to learn, engage and seek deeper information on rugby topics with like-minded people.

This membership gives you exclusive access to videos within the RB Bricks Club. Each week we post exclusive content from professional players, coaches and clubs from around the world. Listen to some of the world's best rugby minds explain strategies, game plans and drills they use in the professional game.

Our latest chat was with International referee Ben O’Keeffe who walked us through his review he had done for Scotland vs England game in the Six Nations. In this episode of the podcast, you will get a preview of the content to expect from joining the club, we dive into: 

 

• How Rugby Bricks has created a strong fan and customer base by creating extra value in their products and overdelivering on the new project launches.

 

• The reason behind creating an exclusive member group in the first place and what you will get out of being involved in the club. 

 

• A sneak peek into the Bricks Club and the calibre of guests that are lined up in the future.

 

• Peter’s experience and learnings on getting to spend the week with the Crusaders the most successful Super Rugby franchise.

 

• Examples of the benefits of being a part of the group and how it can benefit your own coaching and playing ability. We look at stories and experiences that will typically never be seen by the public eye.

This podcast is a great insight into the new developments and launches that are happening this year and what's to come in the future. 2022 is going to be a massive year for the brand and we are excited to keep you updated with all of the projects and product launches that are coming soon. Kale and Peter share all of the innovative decisions that are being made.

 

 If you are a Rugby Bricks supporter or rugby fan then this podcast has all the insights to join and be involved in the brand more.

Jase Ryan is a New Zealand rugby union coach and former player, currently the forward’s coach of the Crusaders and assistant coach to Fiji. Ryan’s first significant coaching role was for the Canterbury provincial team originally as a scrum coach and then became assistant in 2015-16 and went on to win back to back titles those years. Ryan is now coming into his sixth consecutive year at the Crusaders who for the past 5 years have won 5 successive titles.

Ryan is a highly respected coach at the Super Rugby and international level. Along with his Super Rugby accolades he was also the scrum coach for the Black Ferns back in 2014 and the NZ Under 20’s for 3 seasons too.

Over Ryan’s career, he has been a part of some of the most successful teams in history, we learn what it takes to create the results he has. We dive into: 

 

• The importance of Ryan starting the front row club to ensure there was a program to focus on the safe development of props and hookers at a young age. 

 

• How the Crusaders franchise has been so dominant and successful over the past decade and what goes into a winning culture. 

 

• The importance of coaches understanding that players don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.

 

• Ryan’s experience on the Emirates Team New Zealand boat with Peter Burling and how they handled communication under pressure.

 

• How Ryan overcame contracting COVID-19 being in a foreign country and how it gave him and extra gratitude and perspective on life.

 

From Junior XV rugby to the Crusaders, this episode has it all. If you are a player, coach or supporter, this podcast is for you. It gives insights and secrets into the most successful Super Rugby team in history and how they have won 5 consecutive titles in the past 5 years. We take a look at how a team can remain this consistent and dominant over so many years and what it takes to stay at the top.

Please enjoy this in-depth and enlightening episode with none other than Jase Ryan. 

Chloe Dalton is one of Australia’s few triple sports athletes.  She has been a part of the WNBL with the Sydney Uni Flames. Chloe then represented Australia in rugby sevens and made her debut in 2014 on the Dubai women's sevens circuit. 

 

Chloe won a gold medal as a part of the women’s sevens team at the 2016 Rio Olympics and was recognised as Australia’s top Rugby 7s player in 2017, winning the Shawn Mackay Medal. As well as her achievements in the rugby and basketball world, Chloe then crossed codes again to Aussie Rules. She made her debut in 2019 for Carlton in the AFLW, Chloe was recently named Runner-Up in the Carlton Best and Fairest Awards for the 2020 AFLW season.

 

In this episode, we learn what it takes to compete at the highest level across three sports & the journey to success of some of the top female Australian athletes. We dive into:

• How Chloe was a driving factor into getting the Paralympians competing at the 2020 Tokyo Paralympics the same pay for winning medals as the other Olympic athletes. 

 

• The reason behind creating ‘The Female Athlete Project’ and why it is such a game-changer in the world of sport.

 

• Challenging the misconception around women’s sports and shedding light on their achievements and gaining mainstream media exposure. 

 

• How Chloe managed to stay at the top of her game in each sporting code and receiving huge praise and accolades after each sporting transition.

If you are an aspiring young athlete who is striving to make the next level then Chloe will give you the inspiration to do so. This episode is about the journey to becoming a professional athlete and gives you advice on how to handle pressure and adversity along the way. 

 

This podcast is extremely relevant in the sporting world because women’s sports have typically had a back seat in terms of media coverage. As women’s sports is growing rapidly so are their successes and Chloe has created a platform to share and expose the incredible stories of Australian female athletes.

Make sure you check out this awesome and insightful initiative ‘The Female Athlete Project’

Firstly, we can't wait to launch our first NFT on Friday the 17th of September 2021 and we wouldn’t have been able to get this across the line without the ongoing support of our community and the interest in the project so the thanks goes out to the Rugby Bricks community. 

 

This episode of the Rugby Bricks podcast is a bit different. The podcast strays away from its usual rugby theme and dives into the cryptocurrency and NFT world to get you excited for the release of our first Rugby Bricks Gold Rare Mid Cut NFT this Friday. 

 

The two brains of Rugby Bricks share their knowledge in the digital asset space and educate you on why it’s important and how it will work. If you’re into rugby and looking to understand the future of the space of how we see this working this podcast is just a glimpse. We dive into:

 

• How Rugby Bricks has created a strong fan and customer base by creating extra value in their products and overdelivering on the new project launches.

 

• The reason behind creating an NFT in the first place and how the artwork and production of the new launch came to fruition.

 

• Why the NFT space is taking over and how cryptocurrency will change the way we pay, trade and create value within the digital world in the future.

 

• Examples of the benefits of owning an NFT and what we can expect from large companies and how they will change the game using digital currency.

 

This will be our first of its kind Rugby Bricks NFT giveaway. With every kicking tee purchased on Friday via our online store, only ten customers will be receiving one of these limited edition Rugby Bricks Gold Rare NFT's at random. The holder of this NFT will receive annually a Rugby Bricks Limited Edition Gift Pack that is not for purchase on any other platform.

Watch our latest @rugbybricks YouTube Video titled - What Are NFT's and How Do They Work?

Wayne Smith is a New Zealand rugby union coach and former player, currently the Director of Rugby for the Japanese Top League club, the Kobelco Steelers. Smith’s first significant coaching role was for the Crusaders in the 1997 season and went on to win back to back titles in 1998 and 1999, before being appointed the head coach of the All Blacks in 2000.

Smith is regarded as one of the greatest rugby coaches in history. Nicknamed “The Professor”, Smith is considered to be the All Blacks tactical genius who helped engineer two Rugby World Cup victories in 2011 and 2015. He is one of two coaches to win back to back Rugby World Cups. Along with the Crusader’s championships, he also helped the Chiefs secure their first Super Rugby title in 2012 and then went back to back again in 2013.

Smith has had one of the most decorated careers of any coach and in this episode of the podcast, we learn what it takes to create the results he has. We dive into: 

 

• How Smith handled the public pressure of being an All Blacks coach and dealing with adversity when things didn’t go his way.

 

• The importance of speaking your mind in a close coaching unity, even though the other coaches opinions may differ from your own.

 

• How Sonny Bill Williams changed the game with his offloading ability and how Smith added his skillset into the strike moves.

 

• The importance of having high-quality game sense and thinking on your feet instinctively when on the counter-attack and in high-stakes moments.

 

• How Smith approaches each team he’s involved in with a different mindset and culture, as each franchise will vary in its values, ethos and strategy.

From grassroots rugby to the All Blacks, this episode has it all. If you are a player, coach or supporter, this podcast is for you. It gives insights and secrets into the All Blacks camp and how they prepare. We take a look at being creative with new innovative tactics on the field and not shying away from strategies that haven’t been done or seen.

Please enjoy this in-depth and enlightening episode with none other than Wayne Smith.

 Mitch Hunt is a professional New Zealand rugby player. Hunt was among the top 10 lead point scorers for the 2021 Super Rugby Aotearoa tournament and the top 3 lead point scorers in the 2021 Super Rugby Trans-Tasman competition. 

 

Hunt has already managed to play over 70 games of Super Rugby with the Crusaders and Highlanders combined. He is currently about to begin the Bunnings NPC season with the Tasman Makos where he has already notched up 56 games for the club and has won back to back championships.

 

Since high school Hunt has been a stand out first five and fullback and has was involved in representative grade rugby coming through the ranks, including New Zealand Under 20s. His ability to read the game and break open a defensive line has earned him the opportunity to play at the Super Rugby level and most likely higher honours in future years. 

 

In this episode, we learn what it takes to become a world-class game driver and how leadership is also about your actions on the field, not just what is said in the sheds. We dive into:

 

• How Aaron Smith has instilled confidence in his players to make the right decisions and back themselves to execute when called upon. 

 

• The importance of creating strategies to beat teams that are stronger and more physical, but still being able to command the game with kicking tactics and having the team buy into the game plan. 

 

• The process Mitch takes when going through his kicking routine and basing his overall performance on the feel rather than technical issues.

 

• How the Tasman Makos have created strong values and culture within the team environment which saw them become back to back champions in the 2019, 2020 NPC competition. 

 

• Mitch’s thoughts around playing for the Crusaders and the lessons and learnings he took from the franchise and how it grew him as a player leading into his Highlanders career.

 

 

If you’re someone who is looking to understand the skills, communication and tactics of a world-class first five and fullback. This episode is about taking the reins as the game driver and being confident in your decision making ability and having the freedom from the coaches to back yourself.

It gives insights into a professional rugby environment and how they prepare differently for each team and being able to figure out strategies to dominate whilst being a smaller and less physical team. 

Kale is the partner of K&J Growth and Rugby Bricks. His companies have worked with local businesses like BNZ and local gyms through to international brands like TikTok, Microsoft and Monster Energy and have helped hundreds of businesses go online.

 

Kale is a member of the Forbes Agency Council and the only New Zealand representative to sit on the council and one of the key delivery team members behind Digital Boost. He has opened his own gym in a facility he didn’t own, and with no equipment except A3 & A4 cutouts, within 14 days he turned a $200 marketing budget into $202,000 of annual revenue.

 

In this episode, we learn the common mistakes people make when creating a business idea and why it is important to have core values and vision within a business environment. We dive into: 

 

• The Biggest mistakes people are making with attempting to start a new business and how to overcome those challenges.

 

• Why Ryan Papenhuyzen is hungry for knowledge and extremely curious, and his willingness to put in the work to continue to get better every day.

 

• Some of the Rugby Bricks product ideas that never made it to the light of day.

 

• Peter & Kales top 3 coolest and influential people they have gotten the opportunity to meet over the past year. 

 

• The importance of building players and helping them develop and grow as people over simply going through the motions and becoming complacent.  

 

• How Peter foresees rugby’s future, what trends he is seeing and what people need to be paying attention to more.

This Interview is a great reflection on how far Rugby Bricks has come as a brand and how things are heading in the future. The two brains of Rugby Bricks share some secrets and great stories into how they have gotten to where they are today and what’s next.

 

If you are a rugby fanatic or striving entrepreneur then this podcast has all the insights to give you the confidence to take the leap to the next level.

Don’t forget to check out Digital Boost with more information and tools that will help you use digital tools and technologies to support your business’ success.

Chelsea Alley is a New Zealand Professional rugby player. She is currently the captain of the Waikato Women's team In the Farah Palmer Cup and has broken the union's record for most games and points. Alley also won the World Cup in 2017 and has been a part of the NZ black ferns since 2013. 

 

For the past 10 years, Alley has represented clubs from an amateur to an international level and has poured her heart and soul into the sport. Among her accolades, she was recently named in the Chiefs side that played in the first-ever Women’s Super Rugby game between the Chiefs & Blues taking the victory 39-13. 

 

In this open and honest podcast, Alley shares her thoughts into the reality of her own life as a semi-professional rugby player and how she has struggled with juggling three jobs and also performing at the highest level of rugby. We dive into: 

 

• How Chelsea's childhood developed her kicking game by practising in the backyard with her brother & the idea around most young players tending to overcomplicate these skills.

 

• The Importance of women's rugby needing to change to a professional syndicate and breaking the stigma around their mental & physical wellbeing. 

 

• The process Chelsea takes to set up for a kick and her how internal feelings drastically affect the outcome of the kick in high stake environments.

 

• Dealing with constant pressure and high expectations of the public to consistently perform at the highest level while trying to sustain a healthy life balance.

 

• How Chelsea’s has become a role model for the youth and set an example for the next generation of women’s rugby players.

 

• Chelsea's thoughts around the Chiefs Mana resurgence and her personal experience being a part of the historic first women’s Super Rugby game.

 

This podcast is extremely relevant in the rugby world and has been an issue that keeps getting swept under the carpet. We are excited to see the women's game grow and develop further in the future and we hope this podcast resonates with a lot of people and inspires young women to get involved in the game. Please share this podcast with someone who will really benefit from this sincere and genuine conversation. 

Ben Herring is a New Zealand rugby union coach and former player, currently the assistant coach of the Newest Japanese top league team the Hino Red Dolphins. He was the Otago rugby head coach from 2018 to 2019 winning the Ranfurly Shield with the side in 2018.  

 

Herring's had a decorated coaching career which has given him the opportunity to be involved with two Super Rugby teams, the Highlanders & Sunwolves. Furthermore, he has helped coach the Japanese national side alongside Jamie Joseph and Tony Brown from 2015 to 2018. Herring also played professionally in both New Zealand and England making notable appearances for the Highlanders & Hurricanes. Herring made a strong impression abroad when he represented the Leicester Tigers from 2007 to 2009, he was awarded the newcomer of the year in 2008 and was renowned as a turnover specialist.

 

In this episode of the podcast, we learn what it takes to create a successful team environment & how the soft skills of rugby build a positive culture. We dive into:

• The perception of public pressure and how coaches can find small wins with private success within the team environment

 

• Understanding the importance of culture and how to win the changing room and creating an environment that is bigger than yourself

 

• The importance of managing egos & personalities within the team environment and how to create strong values and leaders to have a positive impact on the group

 

• How to analyse effort as a coach and seeing the bigger picture with players that struggle to commit themselves to difficult tasks

 

• Ben’s idea around being able to still be successful defensively whilst being the smallest on the field by outwitting your opponents

There is so much detail and insights in this episode. If you're a player, coach or admirer of rugby this podcast gives you everything from tactics in the jackal & tackle and also awareness around being more empathic as a coach. Understanding that culture and leadership are the basis for building a successful rugby team. 

Don’t forget to check out Revolution Rugby with more content that will help any coach and player at all levels. 

 

Rachel Vickery is an elite breathing and high-performance strategist. She has been a part of some of the top sporting organisations, including the Golden State Warriors, PGA Golf, Sydney Roosters and currently working with the Melbourne Storm. 

From her time with these teams, she has been labelled as ‘The Athlete Whisperer’. Rachels interest in elite sports has stemmed from her time as an international gymnast on the New Zealand team for 6  years, competing against the world's best at the Commonwealth Games and the World Championships. 

Rachel shares her extensive knowledge of breathing and has helped many teams and individuals reach full physical, mental and emotional capacity when under high stake environments. Throughout this episode we dive into:

 

• Rachels experience with the NBA Golden State Warriors team and how high-performance coaches from Australia and New Zealand are making a name for themselves on the world stage

 

• Understanding how improving your breathing will give you a performance edge and help you execute when it counts under pressure

 

• Rachel’s idea about magic happening outside your comfort zone and how your body needs to be comfortable being uncomfortable

 

• Breaking down stereotypical trends about body posture and how to keep your technique and fluidity it tact while in big moments

 

• How to intentionally set yourself up for success with mental tips and tricks that regain your composure, focus and mental clarity

 

If your someone who struggles in high-pressure environments or wants to execute in clutch moments then this podcast has everything you need to learn the tips and tricks to train yourself, physically, mentally and emotionally for high performance.

Welcome to another episode of the Rugby Bricks Podcast. We are thrilled to bring you this latest episode featuring our very own founders, Peter Breen and Kale Panoho. They are here to share their experiences, insights, and the exciting developments happening at Rugby Bricks in 2023.

Peter Breen has been immersed in coaching some top-level teams in rugby throughout the year, including the Black Rams, Georgia, and Blacks Ferns XV. He touches on his unique experience with each of the teams and shares the learnings and professional development he has taken away by being in these environments. This unique opportunity has been instrumental in Peter's growth, both personally and professionally, and he is eager to share these invaluable experiences with you.

In this episode, we dive into a variety of topics:

• We explore the cultural differences in team environments when coaching top-tier teams from around the globe. Peter shares his observations on how these differences work to each team's advantage, creating a unique blend of strategies and tactics.

• We give you an update on the second Bricks Camp which we will be hosting around NZ in January 2024.

• Peter shares his experience at the Super Rugby coaches conference where he sheds light on the learnings he took away from these high performance coaches and speakers.

• We discuss how Peter has cultivated a passing and skills culture within each of the teams he's coached, and how this has elevated their skillset in these areas.

This podcast is not just an update on Rugby Bricks; it's a treasure trove of insights that can help you grow as a coach or player. The knowledge shared in this episode is limitless and can be applied on and off the field.

Join us in this enlightening conversation with Peter Breen and Kale Panoho, the dynamic duo behind Rugby Bricks. 

Josevata Taliga "Joe" Rokocoko is a professional New Zealand rugby union player. Rokocoko is one of the top ten try scorers of all time in International Test Rugby. Rokocoko played 96 matches for the Auckland Blues and 69 first class test matches for the All Blacks before moving to France where he played 98 matches for Bayonne and 87 matches for Racing 92 retiring in 2019. 

 

Rokocoko right now is a skills development consultant for the team at Racing 92. To keep up with Joe and what’s he doing now you can follow and find Joe on Instagram @jrokocoko and on Twitter @J_Rokocoko. In terms of what Joes shares on this episode it’s one of our best for learning the intricacies of: 

 

• How Joe grew playing one touch in his driveway and how this style of “Fijian” rugby allowed him to see space on the pitch creatively
  
  
• Understanding how the man off the ball dictates move you’re going to do and it’s not one carrying the ball who is the playmaker
  
  
• How Mils Muliaina created safe comms so that Joe could trust his speed and the tools that a good communicator needs in your back three
  
  
• How to deceive players with your face and eyes while your body and your actions tell a different story and how to exploit the space in between 

 

If you’re someone who is looking to understand the skills, communication and tactics of a world class speed merchant this is your episode. This episode is about implementing the big and little habits that Joe has used in his career to achieve some of the feats he has and putting them into your own game. 

The first episode of 2021 is a hell of a listen. Get ready to learn and leverage the knowledge in this episode with Joe Rokocoko.

Robbie Deans is a New Zealand rugby union coach and former player, currently the head coach of the Panasonic Wild Knights. He was head coach of the Australian national team between 2008 and 2013. Deans had previously coached the Crusaders for eight seasons and was an assistant coach of New Zealand between late 2001 and 2003. As the coach of the Crusaders, Deans has won more Super Rugby titles than any other. As a player, Deans represented Canterbury and the All Blacks. 

 

Deans has had one of the most decorated careers to date as a rugby coach and in this episode of the podcast, we learn what it takes to create the results he has. We dive into: 

 

• Understanding that culture is something that isn’t seen when you’re in the room with the team but what they say when you’re not in the room
  
  
• How Deans created the Crusaders culture of victory as back to back to back champions and how players maintained an amateur ethos to leave a legacy of victory
  
  
• How he made all players have one interest outside of rugby to avoid crumbling under pressure when things weren’t going right on the pitch
  
  
• How the Crusaders nearly didn’t make it to a semi-final in Dunedin because an over-excited bus driver lost his nerve because he was too excited and couldn’t get the players to the ground in time and how he built this type of culture across the entire Canterbury community

 

From management to matches this podcast had everything. If you’re a coach, player or supporter this Rugby Bricks episode is worth listening to twice. Once for the joy of it and the second for the knowledge. 

 

Please enjoy this wide-ranging and impressive episode with none other than Robbie Deans.

It’s Black Friday at Rugby Bricks and we’re chatting through the launch of our new RB Kicker Boot Bag, grubbers and everything Black Friday deals. Here’s what we’re covering in today’s episode:

• A new RB Product Launch: The Rugby Bricks Kickers Boot Bag is built to keep your boots, your tee and journal protected while on the move. We’ve created a product that is the first of it’s kind for kickers all across the globe who wanted more from their boot bag.
  
  
• We’ve got a limited edition run of 200 snow white variants for each of our tees and we won’t be doing these again. Now is your chance to grab the tees, tools and products used by the world’s most accurate kicker and thousands of other professionals around the world.
  
  
• Deal 1: Buy 1 Get 1 Free Kicking Tee. Put any 2 Tees in the cart and enter the discount code RBBLACKFRIDAY on the checkout page. RB KICKING TEES: https://rugbybricks.com/collections/kicking-tees
  
  
• Deal 2: Buy 1x RB Journal Get 1 Free Kicking Tee. Put journal and your choice of tee in the cart and enter the discount code RBBLACKFRIDAY on the checkout page. RB JOURNAL https://rugbybricks.com/collections/rugby-tools

 

• Deal 3: NEW Snow White Kicking Tee Range.RB KICKING TEES: https://rugbybricks.com/collections/kicking-tees 
  
  
• Deal 4: New RB Kickers Boot Bag + Free Tee. Put RB boot bag and your choice of tee in the cart and enter the discount code RBBLACKFRIDAY on the checkout page. RB BOOT BAG: https://rugbybricks.com/collections/rugby-tools

Gareth Jenkinson is a sports journalist and is one of the team now leading the launch of Rugby Bricks South Africa. This episode covers some special moments: 

 

 

• How Gareth interviewed Siya Kolisi as he walked off the pitch after winning the 2019 Rugby World Cup

• How Gareth’s career in journalism has led him to speak with some of the greatest minds in rugby in South Africa

• How Rugby Bricks has expanded to South Africa and the key pivotal players of Mike De Beer and Dylan Wilkinson that have helped us launch 

 

 

This interview is a great insight into how far we’ve come at Rugby Bricks and if you’re a rugby fanatic you’ll get to hear some great stories here.

Leo Breen is my Dad and is the roading manager at Whitestone Cheese in Oamaru where I grew up. In this episode, we discuss the values that drive us inside of Rugby Bricks. We chat through: 

 

• What it means to lead with empathy
• How to be you and let others be
• Why you need to share what you learn with others
• How to create your own environment and atmosphere for success
• How to organise your anger and frustration in the right way

 

Rugby Bricks is built on some core values that my business partner Kale and I live by and we’ve shared those with those who work with us. This episode is about sharing those mantras with you and my Dad does a great job of explaining how they came to be. 

 

Enjoy!

Leyla Alev Kelter is an American rugby sevens player. She won a silver medal at the 2015 Pan American Games as a member of the United States women's national rugby sevens team. She also made the squad to the 2016 Summer Olympics in Brazil and made the Eagles squad for Women’s Rugby World Cup in Ireland in 2017. 

In this episode we tackle: 

• Alev’s family and the influence that her mother played in creating scales and how Alev measures herself on the scales of 10.
• How she implements self-care and has navigated her own self-sabotage.
• How Alev discovered her purpose inside and outside of rugby.
• Alev’s skill acquisition and development transfer from ice hockey and soccer to becoming a rugby Olympian.

 

This was a very deep podcast and Alev really brought the tools and tactics to the table on how she has dealt with her own high performance and the ups and downs that come with these moments. 

If you’re an aspiring athlete this is probably the most resource dense episode we’ve had on dealing with the emotional rollercoaster that comes with playing at the top levels. Take notes and most of all enjoy it. 

Christian Leali'ifano is an Australian professional rugby player. He currently plays for the Brumbies in Super Rugby and Toyota Jido Shokki in the Japanese Top League and his usual position is inside centre or fly-half.

In this episode we cover: 

• Chrisitan's role in dictating how he has led both the Brumbies and the Wallabies around the park and how to navigate the pressure of international rugby as a game driver
• His experiences with some of the Wallaby greats and his first experiences alongside Stirling Mortlock and Stephen Larkham
• What it looks like to overcome adversity both physically and mentally from physical illness to selection pressure

This is the first episode of the podcast that will soon be free to view on Rugby Bricks Detail website and as a result, we've made a special clip which you can watch on YouTube to get a better grasp on everything we cover in this episode. Enjoy this one because it's deep and carries a huge amount of information. 

Lastly, this episode is bought to you by the new Rugby Bricks kicking journal.  For the next 3 days, only you'll be able to get a free Rugby Bricks kicking tee of your choice. All you need to do is enter RBFREETEE at checkout when you add both a journal and a tee of your choice to the cart. 

Dan Carter, Jonny Wilkinson, Hayden Parker and hundreds of others are keeping a journal about their kicking experiences and you should too. This is your chance to get not just a journal but a chance to keep a record of your journey as a kicker. 

Take advantage of this deal to not only get a journal that's been two years in the making but a kicking tee used by some of the best players on the planet.

Mike Harris is a professional rugby player for Toshiba Brave Lupus in Japan's Top League. He has also been capped ten times for Australia.

Harris began his career in 2007 with North Harbour in New Zealand's ITM Cup before moving to Australia in 2011. He played for the Queensland Reds and Melbourne Rebels in Super Rugby and then joined French club Lyon for two seasons from late 2016. 

Mike is an eternal student of the game and in this podcast, you learn why. This podcast covers some real intricacies when it comes to goal-kicking, how to navigate selection pressure and the development of his own technique. Here’s the highlight reel: 

 

• Mike’s personal goal kicking journey and slotting a penalty with 80,000 spectators on the international stage 

• Mike’s personal rituals when it comes to game day preparation 

• His experiences playing for the Wallabies and how role clarity allowed him to excel professionally 

• His mental game and how he used “Jingles” to increase his rhythm during his goal kicking 

 

As always we dive into the details in this Rugby Bricks podcast. In terms of goal kicking, we’ve not had a guest go as deep as Mikey does in this one. If you’re looking to perfect your strikes this episode for you and if you’re a coach pass it on to anyone who is looking to convert more.

Lastly, this episode is bought to you by the new Rugby Bricks kicking journal.  For the next 10 days, only you'll be able to get a free Rugby Bricks kicking tee of your choice. All you need to do is enter RBFREETEE at checkout when you add both a journal and a tee of your choice to the cart. 

Dan Carter, Jonny Wilkinson, Hayden Parker and hundreds of others are keeping a journal about their kicking experiences and you should too. This is your chance to get not just a journal but a chance to keep a record of your journey as a kicker. 

Take advantage of this deal to not only get a journal that's been two years in the making but a kicking tee used by some of the best players on the planet.

Just like Matt Dunning’s 2003 drop goal that left him in the rugby halls of fame as the first prop to slot a drop goal from 30 metres out this podcast delivers as much value if not more.

Peter dives into the Rugby Bricks archives to find the top 10 pieces of passing advice from previous guests. From the world’s best number 9 Aaron Smith through to Olympic Gold Medalist coach Ben Ryan and everyone in between this is the best podcast we’ve made yet.  

Here’s what we’re tackling:

• 10 guests in one episode each sharing their best insights into their passing games you’ll hear from Aaron Smith, Ben Okeefe, Tony Brown, Ryan Papenhuyzen, Perry Baker, Ben Ryan, Stephen Larkham, Matt Toomua, Mike Cron and Will Greenwood
  
  
• What I look for when I’m coaching and how to use the advice that these players share throughout the episode
  
  
• The principles that I believe govern a great passing game and how to implement them inside of your own coaching and playing style 

This episode is simply the best we’ve done because it takes some of the best in the world and puts them all in one place. 

Just like Reece Hodge’s 60 m kick on the weekend against the All Blacks in the Bledisloe, this podcast is near perfect. Strap in and start learning. 

Will Greenwood is an English former rugby union player who played for Leicester Tigers and Harlequins and played 55 tests for England and was the centre for the 2003 World Cup-winning team and is our first repeat guest on the Rugby Bricks podcast.

Will is a Sky Sports commentator and sports journalist for The Guardian having written over 1.5 M words for the publication on the game of rugby. He’s in the midst of publishing and writing his own book with his co-author Ben Fennell. 

Will is a virtuoso in all things business, narrative direction, writing and exploring the world around us. Just like our first episode, this one has so many threads and resources that you could spend months on just following up on what Will shares. Here are some of the highlights from the episode:

• Will shares how David and Goliath was actually an incredibly unfair fight for Goliath and how this relates to rugby
  
  
• How Jonny Wilkinson spent there World Cup Final practising goal kicking and dropkicks while the team was in a huddle before going into overtime against Australia
  
  
• Will talks about he learns with his own personal reading and listening time and how COVID has helped him to improve
  
  
• How to stay in the game and find success as a player in the current professional era 

 

We don’t often associate wisdom, understanding and persistent learning with rugby players but Will Greenwood is the living embodiment of this. I love catching up with Will not only because I learn about rugby but because I come away with a better understanding of the world around me. 

Do some homework on this podcast and listen to the episode least a couple of times because there are so many gems in this one. 

Nic Gill has revolutionised the strength & conditioning program for the All Blacks over the past 16 years. The esteemed All Blacks S&C coach, known for his unparalleled expertise and tireless dedication has solidified his place as one of the greatest minds in the game. Gill has had one of the most decorated sporting careers, sculpting some of the most talented players and being a part of the most successful rugby team in history. 

Gill’s knowledge and understanding of the game and how people train, allowed him to get his players to reach new heights of speed, strength & fitness. Gill has been the All Blacks S&C coach for over 200 tests which included over 170 test wins with back-to-back World Cups in 2011 & 2015.

Gill has recently ventured into his own business, founding ‘rugbyready’ in 2022, which gives rugby players the tools to dominate on the pitch, push for selection and reach their full potential. In this episode, we dive into:

• The inside scoop on how Nic Gill gets the All Blacks primed for Test match rugby
  
  

• How you can challenge yourself every year with something that "gets you outta bed" to stay fit and healthy.
  
  

• How you can prepare your body with safe load management in the gym and be a cut above the rest.
  
  

• Who is the best athlete Gill has worked with within the All Blacks environment?
  
  

• The circulating question around being bigger, faster & stronger to play international footy and being relevant in today's game.
  
  

 

Whether you're a player, coach, or avid supporter, this episode has all the gems. It gives you the knowledge and insights to understand what you need to do to reach the next level and prepare your body for the upcoming season.

You’ll hear untold stories behind the most successful rugby team in history and the enduring triumphs of Gill's illustrious career spanning over a decade. From the next generation to the pinnacle of the sport, this educational and enlightening podcast will leave you inspired and craving for more.

Mike Cron first began working fulltime with the All Blacks in 2004 and after many years as the All Blacks Scrum Coach, moved into a wider role as the Forwards Coach in 2012. Mike has been coaching since 1982 and is recognised as one of the most innovative and respected coaches in the world. 

Mike has now retired from coaching the All Blacks forwards and is now focusing on creating a mentoring platform for young players and coaches who are coming through the ranks. This is the first time Mike has appeared on any form of media outlet for a long-form interview and the value in this episode over-delivers. We cover: 

• Mike’s ability to learn from a range of different professional sports including the NBA, NZ Royal Ballet, NRL, sumo-wrestling, shotput and many more
  
  
• The two core contact points of your feet and shoulders in the cleanout, maul, ruck and scrum and how to transfer power through these points to maximise dominance in the game
  
  
• How to explain and deliver drills to athletes and gain their buy in when teaching new concepts and foster questions around why these drills are being taught and creating a safe environment for questions
  
  
• What Mike teaches players when entering the scrum for greater body awareness and simplifying the scrum in a way where all eight bodies move in the same direction cohesively to gain dominance upfront 

There are so many more gems in this episode that these four highlight points barely scratch the surface. I’ve said this before but this is our best podcast yet and for me, it was one of the greatest learning experiences I’ve had as a coach. 

If you’re a forward, back, coach or admirer of the game of rugby this episode will blow you away. I’ve listened to it four times since recording it and I’m still getting new insights. Listen, learn and repeat. 

SPONSORS

Rugby Bricks - Detail

The Detail website is all about giving you access to the insights, tools and tactics that the worlds best are using to get better at the game of rugby. Long form episodes, Passing, Goal Kicking and a Workbook Program for only $8.99 the value in this is crazy.

We have always tried to over deliver with content and we 100% have here too. www.rugbybricks-detail.com.

Abby Gustaitis is an American rugby union player. She debuted for the United States against France in 2016. She was selected for the squad to the 2017 Women's Rugby World Cup in Ireland.

Abby is currently working on her game during COVID-19 as she looks to the possibility of the Olympics Games in Tokyo, next year. Similar to Abby this episode had everything, here's what we covered: 

• How Abby is making the most of lockdown and the core skills she's been developing when you're not allowed at parks or grounds
   
• Abby has a Bsc in Physiology and Neurobiology and this has helped her develop world-class habits and breaking down poor ones
  
  
• How Abby focuses on her sleep and how this is directly related to skill development 
  
  
• How the Eagles have shifted their culture from secrecy to an open culture where everyone focuses on sharing their knowledge to improve as a group as opposed to individuals 

This episode was a special one as it highlights the level of detail world-class athletes are willing to go to practice their trade even when everything is against them. 

If you're looking to build a culture that revolves around science, skills and better habits this episode is our best one yet for it. Get into it and take some notes. 

Rickaroons: https://www.rickaroons.com/ Superfood & Company: https://www.superfoodandcompany.com/  

Otere Black plays as a first five-eight for Manawatu in the Mitre 10 Cup, Blues in Super Rugby Aotearoa and Maori All Blacks and someone I had the opportunity to play at the end of my playing days. 

Otere is currently leading the top of the table Blues around the park as the starting first five-eighth and has been a standout this season. Just like Otere, this episode was classy and here's what we cover: 

• How Otere learns from Dan Carter and how this has allowed him to view the game
  
  
• Leading the Blues in the COVID pre-season against Beauden Barrett
  
  
• Otere's game process and how he handles game driving of the Blues team
  
  
• His process around goal-kicking off of the Wolf + and how his kicking has evolved over time 

This episode was insightful as I got to really dig deep on the details and learn from Otere and what's influencing his success at the Blues this season. 

If you're a Kiwi this episode is a special one for you and if you're from anywhere else in the world - you'll hear from how some of the best players in the world do what they do. Get some pen, paper and get ready to learn from this episode with Otere Black.

Will Greenwood is an English former rugby union player who played for Leicester Tigers and Harlequins and played 55 tests for England and was the centre for the 2003 World Cup-winning team.

Will is now a Sky Sports commentator and sports journalist for The Guardian having written over 1.5 M words for the publication on the game of rugby. 

This episode was just class. Will is an excellent storyteller, succinct copywriter and master craftsmen when it comes to communication. In this episode we cover: 

• Will's playing career and his love of NZ rugby including his own insights on the first weekend of Super Rugby Aotearoa 
  
  
• How Will thinks about writing, communication and using this to capture viewers and readers attention and how to apply this to rugby 
  
  
• Will's story about Jonny Wilkinson in the 2003 Rugby World Cup Final overtime and his attention to detail and practice 
  
  
• Will's insight into the difference between Northern and Southern hemisphere rugby in the early 2000's 

You know a great speaker when you hear them speak and in this episode, Will embodies that. I loved every minute of this episode and if you're even a fringe fan of rugby you will too. 

Go train, do some housework or simply get some pen and paper and takes notes on this incredible episode of the Rugby Bricks podcast with Will Greenwood. 

In this episode, we go deep on the upcoming Detail series that is coming Rugby Bricks followers and a fireside chat with Aaron Smith. 

One of the missing links I've found in rugby is the attention to detail. Some of the best in the world are making half centimetre adjustment to their hand position or ball drop and as a community, we've been missing this.

This is where our new long-form content series "DETAIL" enters the picture, we're creating a subscription site that is based on bringing you the micro-skills that will help you perform better at the breakdown or just rapidly distributing the ball. 

In this podcast episode, I cover: 

• What the DETAIL series will cover 
• My most recent podcasts with Stephen Larkham and Devin Markle 
• A 10-minute fireside chat with Aaron Smith 

Enjoy this DETAIL episode of the Rugby Bricks podcast. 

In this episode, we go deep with Australian Wallaby utility back Matt Toomua. 

Toomua is an Australian rugby union player who has played over 35 times for Australia since 2013. He plays for the Melbourne Rebels in Super Rugby and his usual position is at fly-half or 2nd-five. He has previously played for the Brumbies and for Leicester Tigers in England's Premiership Rugby.

In this episode we cover: 

• The business of rugby and Toomua's representation of Union players in the restructuring of Australian Rugby
• His attention to detail and how these micro-skills amplify your overall in-game performance  
  
  
• The selection decisions that drove issues within the Wallabies squad during the previous Rugby World Cup 
• How Super Rugby needs to be restructured so that there is a better offering for fans to get to the game 

This episode was special, Matt is insightful, well versed and someone who is thinking about how the micro affects the macro inside and outside of rugby. 

Grab a pen, grab a note pad and start looking at how you can implement the gems that were dropped in this episode. 

In this episode, we go deep on performance anxiety with sports psychologist Devin Markle. 

Devin has experience working with athletes at every level, from youth development programs, high school, and college through to Olympic and pro-athletes. She's developed curriculums for the NFL and the NBA Pre-Draft programs. 

Devin earned her Master’s degree in Counseling and Sport Psychology from Boston University. Following her training at Boston University, Devin earned certification by the Association of Applied Sport Psychology. She is also completing her Psy.D. from California Southern University. She is also an Adjunct Faculty Member at California Lutheran University.

In this episode we cover: 

• The differences between stress and anxiety and how to recognize this in your performance
  
  
• How to overcome anxiety and look for those cues so that your team and coaches can support you when you're under pressure 
  
  
• The origins of anxiety and how to accept this as a useful tool versus an issue that you have to face every day
  
  
• Changing your self talk to allow you to perform at your peak versus your most worried 

This episode was something we wanted to bring together as we're now moving out of lockdown and performance pressure is returning to everyone in some way or form. 

Grab a pen, grab a note pad and start looking at how you can implement the gems that were dropped in this episode. 

Janet Main is a physiotherapist and strength and conditioning coach working out of Kinematics Performance here in Melbourne. Jay has worked with professional athletes nationally and internationally. 

In this episode we cover a return play after COVID: 

•  How to run so that you're carrying yourself with the appropriate back mechanics 
  
  
• How to prime your muscles and the key exercises to do this 
  
  
• Your most likely injury areas and how to remedy this before returning to practice and play

This episode is extremely tactical and practical, if you're a coach or player who is getting ready to return to club rugby this is the episode for you. 

Take a look at our YouTube video on this episode so that you can get access to all of the exercises and drills in this episode. 

Stephen Larkham is a retired Australian rugby union player and World Rugby Hall of Famer, currently in the role of senior coach for Irish provincial side Munster, who compete in the Pro14.

Larkham has been recognised as one of the best first-fives to play for Australia and during his peak, he was one of the best in the world at 10. This mastery has now been channelled into his rugby his coaching game and was one of the reasons behind the success of the Wallabies in the 2015 Rugby World Cup as the attack coach.

In this episode, we take a deep dive with Larkham on:

 

• His days as a player and his transition from 15 to a 10 and his continued dominance in this role
  
  

• The golden era of Australian rugby and how they created a world-class rugby team that believed they could win any game they played and taking home a world cup
  
  

• His time as a coach at Munster and the depth of his key players within his squad and how they’re using momentum as a key part of their attack game
  
  

• How everything can become a competition and why this edge was important for creating a winning culture in Australia’s golden era and how it rubs off as a leader too

 

 

This was an incredible episode where you get to see what one of the best players in the world achieved during their playing days and then how this has translated to a world-class coaching career. This is a true bridge between the world of an athlete and a coach.

Get a pad, get some notes and start learning on this one.

Jesse Kriel is a South African professional rugby union player for the South Africa national team and Canon Eagles in the Japanese Top League. He is a utility back who can play centre, wing or fullback. Jesse has played 46 test matches for the Springboks and was a part of their Rugby World Cup-winning squad in 2019.

 

This episode was simply special we get everything from World Cup practices to Jessie’s own examination of the micro-skills of the game. We cover: 

 

• Jesse’s drive to get better by getting a spare gym key cut so that he could train in the evening without the lights on so that others wouldn’t know he was there
  
  
• The division of racism in South Africa and how the Springboks head coach Rassie Erasmus made this something that his team would tackle headfirst and the inclusion of black and white players in their squad
  
  
• The exact details of how Jessie learned to add an offload to his game after playing against Sonny Bill Williams
  
  
• The unity that was inside of the South African World Cup squad when they took home the gold in 2019 

 

In terms of episodes, this had something for everyone from coaches to players through to supporters and everyone in between. Jesse turned up to this podcast with a pen and a pad and is a true student of the game and it’s something we can all mirror in our careers and lives.

Download, learn and enjoy. 

SPONSORS 

 

Hudl - New Partnership 

 

Hudl powers sports. More than 150,000 teams including the best in the world use Hudl to elevate their performance with video and analytics. Get your own personalised kicking review done by Peter using Hudl based on the 10 Pillars of Goal Kicking. Get your own kick reviewed now for 25% off.

 

Rugby Bricks Passing Program 

This is our on-field and gym passing program used by those at the highest level of the game. This program was crafted by Peter Breen with All Black Aaron Smith to teach players how to generate power, accuracy, and consistency in their passing. Get the program here. You can now grab it for 75% off until rugby is up and running again. 

Ben O'Keeffe is a world-renowned rugby union referee and ophthalmologist (eye doctor) from New Zealand. He has climbed to the top of the referee ladder and is cited as one of the top referees leading into the Rugby World Cup in France this year. 

O'Keeffe became an official referee in 2013 and has since officiated 43 ITM Cup matches, 75 Super Rugby matches & over 30 test matches and took control of 4 World Cup matches in 2019 and even a British Irish Lions Series in 2021. In this episode of the Rugby Bricks podcast, we chat Rugby World Cup 2023 and how this tournament will have added pressure for the match officials and how Ben deals with media scrutiny, coaches and public pressure.

Ben has skyrocketed to the top of the referring world and it’s a credit to the time he spends learning about the game and admitting his mistakes and finding ways to get better. In this episode, we dive into:

• How referees rectify their mistakes and make sure future games aren’t affected by the decisions made.

 

• The decision from Ben to issue a red card to Marika Koroibete vs France and understanding the impact it had when it was an incorrect decision. 

 

• The amount of pressure referees face from coaches, the public and the media pre and post-games and how they are reviewed by the referring committee.

 

• Ben’s challenge of refereeing a game French leading into the World Cup in France and how this has drastically helped his personal and professional development. 

This episode is full of detail and insights, whether you are a player, coach or supporter, you'll learn what it takes to make second-by-second choices when taking the world stage and how decisive you have to be to make some of the hardest decisions a referee can make with the crackdown on player safety and new laws introduced.

Ben Ryan is an English rugby union coach who is best known for coaching the Fiji sevens team to a gold medal in sevens rugby at the 2016 Rio Olympics.

As Fiji's sevens coach from 2013 to 2016, he guided the team to their first-ever Dubai 7's title and set the record of tournament titles won by a Fiji Sevens coach with nine. The gold medal was the first-ever medal won by Fiji at any Olympics. 

Fiji is one of the most underfunded and under-resourced countries on the planet and in this episode Ben shares: 

• How to create a culture around “The Standard you walk past is the Standard you become”
  
  
• Bens love for each and every one of the players and the lengths he went to build rapport and trust with each of the players
  
  
• Skill acquisition, attention to detail and how he fine-tuned the Fijian offload game to be the deadliest on the planet
  
  
• Ben explains how he overcame his ego when he was England to focus on team success, not individual success
  
  
• Building lifelong relationships with his manager Ropate Kauvesi and Captain Osea Kolinisau to take the team to gold in Rio.
  
  
• How to create a safe environment for any team or business where players feel safe and believe in the common purpose

This episode was mind-blowing for me and it spoke to the true nature of what it means to coach and lead a team. 

Wherever you fit into the world of rugby this episode is an absolute must-listen. 

SPONSORS

Hudl - New Partnership 

Hudl powers sports. More than 150,000 teams including the best in the world use Hudl to elevate their performance with video and analytics. Get your own personalised kicking review done by Peter using Hudl based on the 10 Pillars of Goal Kicking. Get your own kick reviewed now for 25% off.

Rugby Bricks Passing Program 

This is our on-field and gym passing program used by those at the highest level of the game. This program was crafted by Peter Breen with All Black Aaron Smith to teach players how to generate power, accuracy, and consistency in their passing. Get the program here. You can now grab it for 75% off until rugby is up and running again. 

Andy Ellis is a halfback who was previously playing for the Kobelco Steelers until COVID-19 hit. Ellis has played for Canterbury, then the Crusaders and made 28 appearances for the All Blacks. 

This episode was special. We get a look at what it was like for Andy to play alongside some of the greats of the game from Dan Carter and Richie McCaw and how the Crusaders culture is built with legends like Justin Marshall and Reuben Thorne. We get some nuggets on: 

• What it means to have a championship-winning team and how this is reflected at training and in camp
  
• How to keep going when you’re hurting and knowing that “you’re not going to die” and pushing yourself through the hole when testing
  
• How expectations are set by the players alongside the coaches to breed a mindset of adding value and winning championships
  
  
• How to live outside of footy and how rugby doesn’t have to be your defining moments 

This episode with Andy is an incredible resource on how to stand on the shoulders of giants, taking on an outwork mentality with everything you do and building a culture of excellence.

If you’re in lockdown and missing rugby this one will make you miss it even more so get stuck in and grab some notes on this episode of the Rugby Bricks podcast with Andy Ellis.

 

SPONSORS

Hudl - New Partnership 

Hudl powers sports. More than 150,000 teams including the best in the world use Hudl to elevate their performance with video and analytics. Get your own personalised kicking review done by Peter using Hudl based on the 10 Pillars of Goal Kicking. Get your own kick reviewed now for 25% off.

Passing Program 75% Off

An on-field and gym passing program used by those at the highest level of the game. This program was crafted by Peter Breen with All Black Aaron Smith to teach players how to generate power, accuracy, and consistency in their passing. Get the program here. 

Buy One Get One Free Using The Code: TWOBRICKS

Due to Covid-19 and the shutdown of the NZ non-essential businesses, all tees will now only be shipped after the 29th of April, 2020. If you want to purchase a Rugby Bricks Tee please take this into consideration

 

Bryn Hall is New Zealand Half Back who has played 89 Super Rugby Caps earning the majority of these at the Super Rugby franchise The Crusaders. Hall has played for NZ Under 17's, captained the NZ Under 20's and has played 3 games for NZ Māori. 

This is one of the most detail orientated podcasts we've had and is filled with gold that you can use during this lockdown period. In this episode, you're going to get an in-depth look into: 

• The skill work and attention to detail and training that have made the Crusaders the most dominant Super Rugby Franchise of all time 
  
  
• The exact exercises that Bryn has used to strengthen and push his pass further and faster 
  
  
• How the Crusaders are coping with the lockdown period and the guidance from their coaching staff 
  
  
• The video review details and specific examples of tactics the Crusaders have used mid-game to beat other Kiwi sides
  
  
• Bryn's mentality as a player and how he approaches learning and focused on becoming a student of the game

If you're a 9 this episode is literally one of the best online resources for educating yourself on what it looks like to execute at the highest level but also learn what a world-class team does. 

This is one you're going to want share with anyone regardless of their position on the pitch. Grab a pen and swap notes as this episode is a masterclass. 

SPONSORS

Hudl - New Partnership 

Hudl powers sports. More than 150,000 teams including the best in the world use Hudl to elevate their performance with video and analytics. Get your own personalised kicking review done by Peter using Hudl based on the 10 Pillars of Goal Kicking.

Passing Program 75% Off

An on-field and gym passing program used by those at the highest level of the game. This program was crafted by Peter Breen with All Black Aaron Smith to teach players how to generate power, accuracy, and consistency in their passing.

Buy One Get One Free Using The Code: TWOBRICKS

Due to Covid-19 and the shutdown of the NZ non-essential businesses, all tees will now only be shipped after the 29th of April, 2020. If you want to purchase a Rugby Bricks Tee please take this into consideration

This episode of the Rugby Bricks podcast is a bit different. I'm joined by my business partner Kale Panoho who takes on the role of interviewer and we cover: 

• How to deal with the lack of rugby right now physically and psychologically
  
  
• How coaches and athletes that have lost their livelihoods can pivot to improve their skills 
  
  
• Where we're headed at Rugby Bricks and the future of the business during this time 
  
  
• How to grow your own Instagram and build a business around the game of rugby 

This episode is for those who are wanting to come out of the lockdown faster, better, stronger than when they went in. Never in our lives have we been presented with an opportunity to focus on improving without the pressure of a performance.

Now is the time to take that opportunity with both hands and work harder than you have before. This episode of the podcast we will give you the tools to do just that. 

SPONSORS

Hudl - New Partnership 

Hudl powers sports. More than 150,000 teams including the best in the world use Hudl to elevate their performance with video and analytics. Get your own personalised kicking review done by Peter using Hudl based on the 10 Pillars of Goal Kicking.

Passing Program 75% Off

An on-field and gym passing program used by those at the highest level of the game. This program was crafted by Peter Breen with All Black Aaron Smith to teach players how to generate power, accuracy, and consistency in their passing.

Buy One Get One Free Using The Code: TWOBRICKS

Due to Covid-19 and the shutdown of the NZ non-essential businesses, all tees will now only be shipped after the 29th of April, 2020. If you want to purchase a Rugby Bricks Tee please take this into consideration

Charlotte Caslick is a member of the Australian Women's Rugby Sevens Team. The team reaching the pinnacle when they won Gold in the Rio summer Olympics in 2016.   Caslick is a key member of the team has established herself as one of the best rugby sevens players in the world winning World Rugby Sevens Player of the year in 2016. In this episode of the podcast, we discuss:

• What it takes to be a world-class sevens player and how he made the transition from age group touch rugby at 16 years old to the world rugby sevens stage
  
  
• Missing out on selection due to an inconsistency in her tackling game and how she built upon this to be one of the best back sweeping defenders in the game
  
  
• Charlotte's mindset on the field, showing energy through her effort and the impact that she can have on the team
  
  
• Dealing with endorsement deals in the modern world of Instagram and influencing a generation on and off the field

I loved chatting through the cross over in skill development between touch rugby and sevens rugby, ball playing and manipulating defences.

This episode is must-listen for sevens fans and young players wanting to get to the top.

SPONSORS:

This weeks episode was brought to you buy Hudl.com Hudl powers sports. 

More than 150,000 teams including the best in the world use Hudl to elevate their performance with video and analytics.

I personally have used Hudl throughout my career and now with coaching teams and personal reviews for Rugby Bricks. Hudl now powers our 10 Pillar Kicking Review, learn more here:
https://rugbybricks.com/products/online-goal-kicking-review

Perry Baker is a member of the USA Eagles 7's and the highest-scoring American rugby sevens player having scored over 200 tries in Rugby 7's.

Baker has established himself as one of the best rugby sevens players in the world and has won the World Rugby Sevens Player of the year award alongside being named in the World Series Dream team in 2017 and 2018. 

In this episode of the podcast, we get the nitty-gritty details on: 

• What it takes to be a world-class sevens player and how he made the transition from NFL to Rugby 
  
  
• How he went from sleeping in his truck, finishing 7 hour night shifts to go straight to training to get his shot at sevens 
  
  
• How he took his inspiration from some of the greatest players to play the game Dan Norton, William Ryder and Christian Cullen and how they think about speed in the game of rugby 
  
  
• Going deep about how he thinks about speed, tactics, finding and creating space for yourself 

This is one of the best chats we've had to date and it shows the level of commitment, struggle and perseverance to become a world-class athlete. We're a time in the world where some of us are going to have to struggle to get through and this episode is a real-world example of that battle.

If you're anyone who is even remotely interested in Rugby this episode is for you -  it has everything from skill detail to the hustle. We loved this one and we hope you will too.

Henry Bates is a talent-manager at Halo Sport who represents and advises athletes and coaches on a wide range of on and off-field matters and specialise in contract negotiation, player placement (both in NZ and overseas), sponsorship, commercial matters and judicial/misconduct procedures.

In this episode, Pete goes deep with Henry on: 

• What a talent agency actually does and how to locate and work with one 
  
  
• What it looks like for players in the first four to five years after being signed 
  
  
• How to vet player agents and find ones who are going to look after the athlete and the family 
  
  
• How to prepare for an agent meeting and the right questions you need to ask 
  
  
• Some tough stories of players getting stuck in bad contracts and how to get out of them 

This episode is a large deep dive on what it takes to become signed and the process of working with a talent agency. If you're a player who is looking at the next steps in your game entering the professional side of the game this episode will be gold. 

SPONSORS:

This week's episode is bought to you by Halo Sport. Halo Sport helps professional and aspiring athletes and their families navigate the world of modern sport. The business has been built around rugby and remains rugby focused but they now represent athletes and coaches from a variety of sports and are involved in all aspects of the business of sport in NZ and Japan.
 
Henry Bates is a player-manager at Halo Sport who represents and advises athletes and coaches on a wide range of on and off-field matters and specialise in contract negotiation, player placement (both in NZ and overseas), sponsorship, commercial matters and judicial/misconduct procedures.

To take a look at what the team at Halo Sports can do for you and get in touch with Batesy on his email: henry.bates@halosport.co.nz 

Annika is a rugby player currently campaigning with the Melbourne Rebels in the Super W. Annika loves playing rugby almost as much as she loves having a yarn. 

Annika has a double degree in Law and Arts, a Diploma of Legal Practice and is admitted as a Solicitor by the NSW Supreme Court. More recently, she has spent 3 years in corporate development and marketing for a Newcastle based spatial data analytics company. In her free time, Annika throws her energy into social media projects and is currently behind the Rebel Like Her channel promoting the Rebels Super W journey.

In this episode, Annika turns the tables and interviews me, here is what's covered: 

• You're the average of the five people you spend the most time with so make sure you choose your tribe wisely
  
  
• How to start an online business and how we've done this at Rugby Bricks 
  
  
• The difference between coaching boys and girls 
  
  
• How to offer cues on the pitch and the art of having a thrifty tongue 

This episode is a great episode if you're a coach who is looking to take their skills to the next level or somebody who is looking to get into the business of rugby. 

Please enjoy this wide-ranging interview with myself and Annika. 

SPONSORS:

This week's episode is bought to you by Halo Sport. Halo Sport helps professional and aspiring athletes and their families navigate the world of modern sport. The business has been built around rugby and remains rugby focused but they now represent athletes and coaches from a variety of sports and are involved in all aspects of the business of sport in NZ and Japan.
 
Henry Bates is a player-manager at Halo Sport who represents and advises athletes and coaches on a wide range of on and off-field matters and specialise in contract negotiation, player placement (both in NZ and overseas), sponsorship, commercial matters and judicial/misconduct procedures.

To take a look at what the team at Halo Sports can do for you and get in touch with Batesy on his email: henry.bates@halosport.co.nz 

Tamati Ellison is a rugby union player who has played rugby across all forms of the union code.

He was chosen as one of four new caps for the All Blacks 2009 end of year tour to Europe. As well as the All Blacks, Junior All Blacks and the New Zealand Maori, he played for the New Zealand Sevens and was a part of the New Zealand Sevens team that won a gold medal at the 2006 Commonwealth Games in Melbourne. 

In this episode, Tamati shares: 

• What it's like to grow up in a low socio-economic environment and gather information and create the All Black dream 
  
  
• Tamati's experiences with legendary All Black 7's coach Gordon Tietjens through to working with All Black coaches Graham Henry and Steve Hansen 
  
  
• How to incorporate gratitude into your everyday life as a player and professional 
  
  
• How to make learning a lifelong priority 

This episode is one of the best we've had in terms of balancing a world-class playing career with what it takes to be a world-class learner and human being. 

Tamati's story, gratitude and willingness to learn is second to none so make sure you look for the nuggets in this episode in how you can take Tamati's knowledge and apply it to your own life.

Kees Meeuws is a former professional rugby player with a career spanning 20 years representing the All Blacks, Highlanders, Blues and three-seasons in France.

Meeuws was seen as one of the toughest props in the game and was a figure-head for New Zealand Rugby with his time at the All Blacks from 1998 - 2004.

His physical style of play and uncompromising ability to dominate his opposition in the scrum was the cornerstone of his game. A strong connection to Maori culture meant he had a significant impact on the team environment and the development of All Black Haka as we see it today. 

This Podcast is our first masterclass into the world of being a front-rower and what that means. Here are some of the highlights from our chat:

• The art of scrummaging against teammates and picking the brains of world-class coaches to become one of the best to ever do it
  
  
• How he approached his first training session with the All Blacks
  
  
• His post-career learning and his thoughts on the world of professional commentary and the challenges he faced with dealing with the general public

I played in the backs my entire career but on this episode, I absolutely loved going deep into the world of the front row with Kees.

The detail and how obsessed he became with being one of the best props in the world is something we can all learn from. If you know anyone playing or coaching scrums send them this episode because as a front-rower it's one you don't want to miss out on. 

We are excited to share what’s been happening behind the scenes in 2023. There’s been a whole lot happening already and even more to come. Peter Breen has been busy and shares his most recent experiences and learnings while coaching some of the top teams in rugby and the NRL, which include the Bulldogs, Saracens & Harlequins. 

Along with his time at these clubs, he has also been given the opportunity to coach at the international level with the Georgian national side during their European Championship campaign. Coaching at this level has helped Peter grow and develop as a person and as a coach. He discusses the importance of personal development and self-reflection, and how these practices helped him become a more effective coach.

If you’re a player, coach or Rugby Bricks supporter, then this podcast has all the insights and key learnings to help your team on and off the field. We dive into: 

 

• The cultural differences in the team environments when coaching top-tier teams from around the world and how they each work in their favour.

 

• The reason why the Bulldogs practice breathing exercises at least once a week to help increase mindfulness.

 

• A look into what’s in store for Rugby Bricks in 2023 as we ramp up our apparel and product lines to cater for our customers.

 

• Peter’s experience and learnings on getting to spend the week with the Harlequins and Sacarens a couple of the most successful English premiership franchises

 

• How Peter has created a passing & skills culture within each of the teams he’s coached and how it has excelled their skillset in these areas.

This podcast is a great insight into the direction of Rugby Bricks in 2023, with new developments and launches that are happening this year and what's to come in the future. The learnings you can take away from this podcast are limitless and can be used to develop you as a coach or player.

Please enjoy this educational and enlightening episode with none other than the two founders of Rugb Bricks Peter Breen & kale Panoho. 

 

Mike Friday is a former national representative for England sevens and has coached England, Kenya and the United States sevens team.

Friday's work as a head coach has led Kenya and the US to their best performances in the HSBC World Rugby Sevens series. The U.S. and Friday began the 2015–16 Series by "shocking the world" when it defeated New Zealand for the first time at 2015 Dubai Sevens. The team beat the 12-time World Series champion in pool play and again in the tournament's third-place match. Their biggest win came in 2018 when they won their first tournament on home soil and are now known as one of the most dangerous sides in the tournament. 

This podcast is our first masterclass in the game of Rugby Sevens and we cover: 

• The art of nurturing and understanding players and their personalities by mixing the soft and hard skills of coaching
  
  
• How he developed the success and turn arounds of both Kenya and US sevens rugby 
  
  
• The speed boys of the US we cover Carlin Isles (the world's fastest rugby player) and Perry Baker who have both been the highest try scorers for a season in the World Rugby Sevens tournament 

This one is an absolute masterclass on coaching, player cultivation and understanding how to give the 110% effort and develop the mental game for Sevens and Fifteens. 

If you know anyone involved in coaching or sevens send this one on to them as they're going to love this episode. 

Sione Faumuina was a professional rugby league player who has played for the New Zealand Warriors, Canberra Raiders, North Queensland Cowboys and has earned a couple of caps for New Zealand between 2003 - 2004. 

Today, Sione is building Athlete Empire a company focused on building the brands and businesses of what athletes can achieve outside of their playing careers and sharing the lessons of those who have done it before with new up and coming athletes. 

Sione shares some of his career highlights, what it's like to thrive under pressure and how he's overcome some of his personal demons - here is the highlight reel: 

• The exact details of Sione's peak of his career and the subsequent lows of going through AA
• How athletes should distributue their money and spendings to increase their paying longevity and career 
• How basketball allowed him to increase his peripheral vision and work on distributing the ball on the pitch to anyone and everyone
• The upcoming launch of Athlete Empire and what it's like to work among top-performing athletes from World Cup winners & Internationally recognized athletes across both Leauge and Union

This episode shows the good and bad of what it's like to be a professional athlete and gives you a toolset to thrive under conditions of pressure and stress. If you're an aspiring athlete or are already one this episode is our best yet. 

Get in front of the speakers and take in some knowledge. 

SPONSORS:


This week's episode is bought to you by Athlete Empire, Founder and former NRL player Sione Faumuina, assists elite and prospective athletes in building and leveraging their personal brand through their online education platform and mentoring service that is launching in March.

The platform includes video tutorials from World Cup Winner and All Black Nehe Milne Skudder, Gerard Beale, Honey Hireme and over 20 other athletes delivering world-class knowledge on how to perform at your best physically, mentally and monetarily on and off the pitch.

Head over to their website www.athleteempire.com and sign up to their landing page to get a free downloadable PDF made with NRL superstar Gerard Beale and a copy of Sione's book "The Second Phase", again that's www.athleteempire.com and sign up for the pre-launch for some goodies, I've seen some of their content and you're not going to want to miss out when it goes live.

Lima Sopoaga is a professional rugby union player who has played for the Wellington Lions & Southland Stags in New Zealand's provincial competition before joining the Highlanders and eventually making his debut for the All Blacks in 2015. Sopoaga is now playing for the Wasps in the Gallagher Premiership.

Lima shares some incredible insights in this episode of the podcast and if you're a goal kicker you're going to love the attention to detail. Here are some of the pieces from the highlight reel: 

• The exact details of how Lima approaches his goal kicking 
  
  
• Lima's time in Southland and how Otago has shaped him as an athlete
  
  
• His experience with the Highlanders including some of their best and worst years
  
  
• How Lima tackles his work in rugby and what he has done to overcome doubt, frustrations, and setbacks when not being selected

This episode is our most detailed yet and shares the intricacies of goal kicking through to the hardship of non-selection and overcoming these obstacles.  If you're looking to knock over some more conversions this season this episode was made for you. 

Kelly Brazier is a sevens, touch, and 15's rugby national representative for New Zealand having accumulated 144 caps across the different codes. She's the third highest point scorer in women's rugby in New Zealand and holds the record for scoring the most points in a premier match in New Zealand women's rugby (64 points). 

Kelly made her national debut in 2009 and has gathered four world cup victories, a Silver Olympic medal, Commonwealth Gold which is all shared in this episode of the podcast. You're going to get a masterclass on the women's game - you'll hear:  

- How the Black Ferns prepare for their matches 

- How Kelly's personally prepares for her matches and exact pre-match routine

- How the Black Ferns analyze their opponents before facing certain teams 

- Her personal experience with IVF and her first child 

- How to look at space and create attacking opportunities and a bit of whack city across touch, 15's and sevens 

If you're a coach you're going to love the detail of what the Ferns are executing, if you're a player you're going to hear what it looks like to be a multi-sport athlete and create a decade of great footy and beyond.