No Rucks Given

In this episode of No Rucks Given, we sit down with Italian international and Benetton back-row powerhouse Sebastian Negri. Born on a farm in Zimbabwe, Seb’s story is one of resilience, sacrifice and determination. Forced to leave his home country with his family during a period of political unrest, he grew up in South Africa before pursuing his rugby dream across three continents. From Zimbabwe t...

In this episode of No Rucks Given, we sit down with Tom Hooper to unpack his rugby journey. From under-9’s flyhalf to destructive Wallaby forward, he’s carried his enthusiasm and passion for the game across the pond to Exeter where he is making some serious waves. Tom “Hoops” Hooper approaches everyday with an attitude of getting better. That relentless energy and desire dictates his style of play...

In this episode of No Rucks Given, we sit down with Carwyn Tuipulotu to unpack a journey that’s had it all - early hype, tough setbacks, and a determined return to form. Now thriving at Pau, Carwyn shares the honest realities of chasing potential in professional rugby.👍 Like & subscribe for fortnightly rugby podcasts🎧 Listen on YouTube & Apple Podcasts📲 Follow us on Instagram: @NoRucksG...

In this episode of No Rucks Given, we sat down with Stephen Lorenzo Varney before his six nations campaign with “THE ITALY”. We discuss his rise in professional rugby from uninterested golf player to an Italian International staple. Stephen’s work-rate, discipline and his all in/all out mentality offers a very unique perspective on how to make it to the international stage.👍 Like & subscribe...

In this episode of No Rucks Given, we sat down with Christ Tshiunza to discuss his rise in professional rugby from Congolese asylum seeker to seasoned Welsh international. Christ’s focus on remaining present in the moment and his refusal to form any expectations for his rugby career offer a very unique perspective on how to make it to the international stage. ⏱️ TIMESTAMPS 01:10 Intro & Welcom...

In this episode of No Rucks Given, we sat down with Louis Lynagh to discuss his journey to professional rugby. We met with Louis before his training camp for the Italian Men’s National Team, not long before his dominant performance against Scotland where he bagged a try in their 18-15 triumph. We cover his upbringing, which was hugely shaped by his Australian International father Michael Lynagh, h...

In this episode of No Rucks Given, we sit down with Scott Sio to discuss his journey in professional rugby. We discuss everything, from his early years under the tutelage of his World Cup playing, Samoan International father, David Sio to his time repping Australia in the 2015 World Cup. Despite being somewhat of a young prodigy, off the pitch challenges involving grief and bouts of alcoholism had...

In this episode of No Rucks Given, we sit down with Ethan Roots to talk about his rise in professional rugby. We discuss everything, from his early years as an aspiring professional mixed martial artist to his time repping the England Jersey during the 2024 Six Nations. Throughout his journey, Ethan experienced many moments of extreme career acceleration, followed by deep challenges both on and of...