In episode one of Our Rugby Club, host Gavin (“the ref cam”) is joined by Ryan “Pies” Yeoman—former player, coach, and now referee across Plymouth, Devon, Cornwall and beyond—to explain why this podcast focuses on community grassroots rugby rather than the elite game. Ryan shares how he got into rugby through school, progressed from Plymouth Albion’s junior setup into adult club rugby, played mainly as a number eight then blindside flanker, and later moved into coaching, club committee work, and refereeing. The conversation explores what rugby clubs mean beyond matchday: a diverse ‘tribe’ built on community, belonging, and social connection for players, families, and volunteers. They discuss how grassroots rugby differs from what’s seen on TV, the importance of simply getting games played, and challenges created by league structures, travel, player availability, and club poaching—arguing for more flexible ‘game on’ solutions. Ryan reflects on changes in the sport, including the growth of women’s rugby and kids being central to club life, shares memorable tour and matchday stories, highlights favorite club atmospheres (including Hale, St Austell, and Bude), and explains the origin of his ‘Pies’ nickname. He finishes with advice to keep clubs alive by sticking with it and keeping people smiling, and Gavin invites listeners to like, subscribe, share, and get involved in future episodes covering recruitment, volunteering, and club challenges.00:00 Welcome to Our Rugby Club00:39 Why Grassroots Matters03:03 Ryan’s Rugby Journey06:42 From Player to Ref08:53 What Clubs Mean10:25 Surprises of Club Life Rugby for Everyone Referees and Lifelong Rugby Tour Tales and Shenanigans Social Side vs Winning League Structure Struggles Game On Solutions Keeping Fixtures Alive Last Minute Fixtures Player Poaching Spiral Grassroots Changes Today Modern Club Community Keeping Rugby Relevant Toughest Referee Tests Best Grounds Atmosphere Origin of Pies Nickname Quickfire Ref Questions Why Clubs Matter Join Your Local Club Final Message Sign Off