THE EPISODES

Ep. 136

Vernon Matongo: From Varsity Cup Dreams to Stormers Star 🔥 | The Journey No One Saw Coming

We kick this episode off with a powerful chat as Vernon Matongo joins us on Behind The Ruck.
Vernon opens up about life at the Stormers, what the environment is really like, and how his journey from childhood dreams to professional rugby unfolded. He shares the story of his early road in the game, the role his family played in shaping his career, and why putting studies first, including playing in the Varsity Cup, was a crucial step before going pro.

We also dive into his rugby ambitions, the heroes he looked up to growing up, and what continues to drive him at the highest level.

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. 135

Francois Hougaard Opens Up About Surgery, Mental Health & Life After Rugby

New episode of Behind The Ruck is live and it’s a big one 🔥

We kick things off with Juan reliving his Cape Town 10s victory before sitting down with Francois Hougaard for an honest and wide-ranging conversation. He opens up about his current routine, an upcoming surgery, the launch of his wellness brand, and the importance of mental health.

We also dive into his interest in boxing, his passion for cars, Valentine’s Day, and reflect on his rugby career — including Rio Olympics memories. There’s even a special appearance from his dog 🐶

Ep. 134

Imad Khan Opens Up on His Stormers Debut and What Comes Next

In this episode, we sit down with Imad Khan for an honest and insightful conversation about his rugby journey so far. Imad reflects on what has been an incredible season, his transition from SA Schools rugby into the professional game, and the challenges that come with making that step up.
We dive into his first Stormers appearance away in Bayonne, how he’s approached bulking up through gym work and diet, and how he sees and controls the game as a scrumhalf, including managing the balance between flair and structure.

Ep. 133

Ashwell Prince: The Truth About SA Cricket, SA20 & Coaching the Proteas

In this episode, we kick things off by diving into Rugby's Greatest Rivalry, breaking down what it means and what an exciting time it will be for Springboks and All Blacks fans and players. From there, we unpack the latest results and look ahead to the upcoming fixtures, setting the scene for what’s next in South African cricket.

We’re then joined by Ashwell Prince for a powerful and insightful conversation. Ashwell shares his honest thoughts on the current state of South African cricket, the growth of SA20, and how the women’s game is continuing to rise.

Ep. 132

Billy Searle on the Mental Side of being a Pro Rugby Player | What Makes a Great Attacking Flyhalf

This week on Behind the Ruck, we dive into some major rugby headlines before sitting down with Billy Searle for an honest and insightful conversation.

We unpack the news around Razor and the All Blacks, before Billy opens up about his journey through professional rugby. He chats about his current season with Leicester Tigers, what life is really like playing rugby in France, and how he approaches the game as an attacking flyhalf in the modern era.

Ep. 131

Why Gurshwin Wehr Had to Leave SA to Chase His Rugby Dream

This week on Behind the Ruck, we kick things off with a deep dive into the Investec Champions Cup, unpacking the fixtures and sharing our predictions ahead of a massive round of rugby.

We’re then joined by Gurshwin Wehr as he takes us through his journey from South Africa to Manchester and what it’s really like playing for Sale Sharks. He opens up about leaving home, adapting to life in the UK, and how his trademark side step has been getting fans and defenders talking overseas.

Ep. 130

Paul Adams Reveals the Truth Behind His Unique Bowling Action and SA Debut at 18

In this episode of Behind the Ruck, we catch up with Paul Adams, one of South African cricket’s most memorable spinners 🏏 From his unique bowling action to pulling on the Proteas jersey at just 18, Paul opens up about his journey in the game and the moments that shaped him.

Ep. 129

Percy Montgomery: Springbok 2026 Predictions, Rassie’s Impact & Kicking Under Pressure 🔥

In this episode of Behind the Ruck, we sit down with Springbok legend Percy Montgomery for an honest, reflective, and forward-looking conversation that hits on rugby, leadership, and life beyond the game.

We kick things off by unpacking the vision for Behind the Ruck heading into 2026, what we’re building, and why the community always comes first. From there, Percy shares his take on the 2025 Springbok season, breaking down what impressed him, how the Boks have evolved, and what still excites him about South African rugby.