THE EPISODES

Ep. 151

Jimmy Stonehouse on The Pumas Blueprint | Currie Cup Dreams | Coaching in Russia and Japan 🚀🏉

One of South African rugby's most respected coaches joins us on this week's episode as Jimmy Stonehouse sits down with Behind The Ruck. We unpack the recent success of the Pumas, their rise in South African rugby, and what it takes to consistently compete against some of the country's biggest unions.

Jimmy also shares insight into the Pumas culture, the family environment they have built, and the philosophy that has become synonymous with the team. From discussing the Currie Cup to opportunities within South African rugby, this conversation provides a fascinating look into one of the game's most unique rugby minds.

Ep. 124

Dylan Maart’s Unreal Rise From Taxi Guard to the Stormers Will Give You Goosebumps!

In this week’s episode, we kick things off with an in-depth conversation with Dylan Maart as he shares his journey into professional rugby and how he found his way into the Stormers setup 🏉. From early opportunities to recent milestones, Dylan opens up about the moments that shaped his rise and the achievements that put his name firmly on the radar ⭐️.

Ep. 70

Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu Opens Up About His Injury, Return to Play, & Springbok Camp Secrets

We’re thrilled to have Springbok Star Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu on Behind The Ruck! Sacha dives into his journey to the top, from juggling first-team spots in multiple sports to his unforgettable Springbok debut as a fly-half. He shares insights from the Springbok Camp, the invaluable role his family played in his career, and even gives a shoutout to our very own Rudy and Juan for their hard work! Sacha also opens up about his injury struggles, the tough road to recovery, and what it means to make his return to play with the Springboks.🔥

Ep. 68

Cheslin Kolbe Reveals the Secrets Behind His Legendary Sidestep and 1st Springbok Call-up

In this electrifying episode of Behind the Ruck, we’re honored to sit down with none other than Cheslin Kolbe! 🌟 From the dusty fields of South Africa to the grand stadiums of France and Japan, Cheslin’s story is one of pure heart, resilience, and relentless passion for rugby. Hear him relive the pivotal moment he first laced up for the Springboks, and the blood, sweat, and tears that shaped his journey there. 💚💛

He lets us in on the secrets behind his jaw-dropping sidestep, the intense conditioning that keeps him unstoppable, and the rugby heroes who inspired him to chase his dreams. Cheslin also shares the moving story behind the Kolbe Foundation, a project close to his heart, dedicated to turning obstacles into powerful motivators for others.

Ep. 31

A real conversation with Siya Kolisi

The renowned rugby figure and two-time Springbok Rugby World Cup champion, Mr. Siya Kolisi, graces the Behind the Ruck studio with his presence, offering Ruckers an exclusive peek behind the scenes. As former teammates and friends, we delve into Siya's experiences since relocating to France and gain some more insight on his life.

Ep. 150

BTR Celebrates Its 150th Episode with Marvin Orie | EPCR Finals, URC Battles and Life Beyond Rugby 🎯

Celebrating a major milestone as Behind The Ruck hits 150 episodes 🏉🔥 In this special edition, we look back at how far the show has come, from the very first episode to where we are today, reflecting on the journey, the moments, and the growth of the community around it.

We also bring the energy with exciting giveaways, including the Burger King competition and the Red Heart Rum Suite Experience, while sharing some unforgettable conversations throughout the episode. 🍔🍹

Ep. 149

Xavier Mitchell on Scoring 20 Tries in a Season | From Club Rugby to Currie Cup Ambitions 🏆

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Ep. 148

Felipe Contepomi on Coaching Barbarians vs the Springboks | The Truth About Rugby in Argentina

This week on Behind the Ruck, we unpack the massive Barbarians vs Springboks clash taking place on 20 June before sitting down with Argentina head coach Felipe Contepomi for an insightful conversation on rugby, leadership, and life beyond the game.

Felipe opens up about Argentina’s current season, the growth of rugby in Argentina, and what it means to coach the Barbarians against the world champion Springboks. From handling emotions under pressure to the lessons rugby can learn from soccer, this episode dives deep into the mindset of one of the game’s sharpest rugby minds.

Ep. 147

Johan Ackermann Opens Up | The Truth About Coaching the Bulls | Bulls Selection Process | and more 🔥

This week on Behind the Ruck, we sit down with Johan Ackermann for an honest conversation about his first season as Bulls coach and what it has been like stepping back into life in Pretoria. From adapting to a new chapter to leading one of the biggest franchises in rugby, Johan gives a real look into the pressure and passion that comes with the role.

He also takes us back to where it all started, opening up about life as a policeman before rugby became his full time path. It is a story built on sacrifice, discipline, and hard work, shaping the values that still guide him today both on and off the field.

Ep. 146

Shilton van Wyk’s CRAZY Journey From Welding to Olympic Medalist 🥶🔥

In this episode of Behind the Ruck, the boys take the show to the heart of the action as they visit the Soweto Derby, soaking in one of the biggest atmospheres in sport. From the energy in the stands to breaking down the matchday lineups, it sets the tone for an episode packed with culture, passion, and real rugby conversation.

We’re then joined by Shilton van Wyk for a powerful sit down, diving into his journey through the Sevens circuit. He reflects on the unforgettable Hong Kong Sevens victory, the standout moments from his season, and what it meant to reach the pinnacle as an Olympic medalist. From the significance behind his Olympic rings tattoo to the sacrifices along the way, this is a story of resilience and belief.

Ep. 145

Sione Tuipulotu Opens Up on Captaincy Pressure and His Journey to Scotland

Sione Tuipulotu joins us for a proper chat as we dive straight into his journey, unpacking his life in Scotland and what it has really been like settling into a new rugby culture. From the inside look at Glasgow Warriors to how he has grown within that environment, this episode sets the tone with honesty and perspective.
We get into the realities of handling social media as a professional athlete and how he keeps his focus where it matters most. There is a strong emphasis on the joy of competing, what drives him week in and week out, and how that passion translates onto the field, especially when representing at the highest level.

Ep. 144

RUHAN NEL SPEAKS OUT: Inside the Stormers Mindset, Toulon Battle, URC Strategy and Rugby’s New Era

We sit down with Ruhan Nel for an in depth interview covering his journey, mindset and experiences in the game. The conversation also explores the Toulon fixture and what it means in the wider context of his career and modern rugby demands.