Rugby TTL - Series 2 - Episode 17 - Mike Friday - No Holds Barred!

Rugby Insights: Mike Friday on Sevens, World Rugby Politics & More | Rugby Through the League PodcastIn this episode of Rugby Through the League's podcast, we welcome Mike Friday, an iconic figure in the world of rugby. Host and guest delve into Mike's extensive career, from his playing days with London Wasps and Harlequins to coaching England and USA teams in the Sevens and Fifteens formats. The conversation covers the evolution of rugby, the role of Sevens in player development, and controversial changes in the World Rugby Sevens Series. They also touch on the impact of private investment in rugby, the future of the women's game post the recent Women's World Cup, and offer candid critiques and hopeful solutions for the sport's future. Join us for an in-depth discussion that seeks to put world rugby to rights.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:40 Mike Friday's Rugby Journey03:18 The Role of Sevens in Player Development04:55 Challenges and Opportunities in Rugby Development11:05 Financial Models and Rugby's Future18:29 Women's Rugby: Growth and Challenges28:32 Red Bull's Potential Impact on Rugby32:45 World Series and Sevens Rugby36:20 The Challenge of Monetizing Rugby Sevens37:32 Struggles of Emerging Rugby Nations38:55 Inconsistencies and Moral Issues in Rugby Governance39:32 The Impact on Team GB and Event Hosting Challenges40:50 Proposed Solutions for Rugby Sevens42:41 The Future of Rugby Sevens and World Rugby's Role50:57 The State of Rugby Fifteens and World Cup Concerns54:59 Complicated Qualification Processes and Their Impact58:59 Potential Reforms and the Role of Developing Nations01:11:19 Concluding Thoughts and Future Plans